VinFast, the Vietnamese automaker known for its VF 8 and VF 9 all-electric crossovers in the United States, has officially unveiled its smaller offering, the VF 7, in its domestic market. Priced at approximately $35,000 (VND850 million) in Vietnam, the VF 7 presents an affordable electric vehicle (EV) option with a unique battery ownership approach.
In Vietnam, the base price of the VF 7 excludes the high-voltage battery, bringing the total to about $41,000 (VND999 million) for the entry-level trim when the battery pack is included. Notably, VinFast offers a battery leasing option for those seeking a lower upfront purchase cost. At around $120 per month (VND2.9 million), customers can lease the battery, covering a maximum of 1,864 miles (3,000 kilometers).
See also: VinFast VF 7 Unveiled: Boasting 349 HP and an Impressive 268 Miles of Range
Exceeding this limit incurs a higher monthly fee of approximately $198 (VND4.8 million). To secure the battery lease deal, customers must provide a refundable deposit of $1,695 (VND41 million), reimbursed upon contract completion, battery return, or vehicle transfer to a new owner.
While the Vietnamese market has embraced the battery leasing concept, it remains uncertain whether VinFast will extend this option to U.S. consumers. Additionally, specifications for the VF 7 vary between the two markets. In Vietnam, the EV is offered in Base and Plus trim levels, while the U.S.-bound VF 7 comes in Eco or Plus variants.
The VF 7 Base in Vietnam features a single electric motor generating 174 horsepower (130 kilowatts) from a 59.6-kilowatt-hour battery, achieving a WLTP-tested range of 233 miles. In the U.S., the VF 7 Eco is expected to offer a slightly more powerful single motor with 201 hp (150 kW) to the front wheels and a larger 75.3-kWh battery, mirroring the Plus variant’s specifications available in both markets.
The top-tier VF 7 trim boasts a dual-motor all-wheel drive system delivering a combined 348 hp (260 kW) and an extended WLTP-estimated range of 268 miles on a full charge, thanks to the larger battery capacity.
VinFast, known for its commitment to safety, equips all VF 7 models with 11 basic driver assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, forward collision warning, and rear cross-traffic alert. The electric crossover also incorporates a virtual assistant capable of responding to queries in Vietnamese, alongside in-car voice control.
See also: Vinfast brings VF 6 and VF 7 to the North America market
Designed by Italian firm Torino Design, the VF 7 comes with a 10-year or 125,000-mile warranty, with no mileage limit on the battery warranty. Measuring 178.9 inches in length, 74.4 inches in width, and featuring a 111.8-inch wheelbase, the compact electric crossover is set to make a significant impact in both the Vietnamese and U.S. markets.
VinFast will open reservations for the VF 7 in Vietnam starting December 2, requiring a non-refundable deposit of approximately $2,000 (VND30 million), with deliveries anticipated to commence in early 2024.
