Vietnamese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer VinFast has officially announced its participation in the upcoming Auto Expo 2025 and the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025. The company plans to showcase its VF 7 and VF 9 e-SUVs, highlighting its ambitious plans for the Indian market. With an investment of approximately ₹4,000 crore to build a state-of-the-art EV manufacturing plant in Tamil Nadu, VinFast is gearing up to make a significant impact in India’s burgeoning EV space.
Let’s take a closer look at what these two electric SUVs bring to the table.
VinFast VF 7: A Sleek and Sporty 5-Seater Electric SUV
Dimensions and Design
The VinFast VF 7 is a mid-size electric SUV that measures 4,545mm in length, 1,890mm in width, and 1,635.75mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,840mm. Its sporty and futuristic design features:
- Full-width LED DRLs and trapezoidal lighting housings.
- A curvy bonnet with distinctive grooves.
- Side profile enhancements such as glossy black fenders, flush door handles, and dual-tone ORVMs with integrated turn signals.
- A tapering roofline and layered tailgate design at the rear, complete with a roof-mounted spoiler and shark-fin antenna.
Powertrain Options
The VF 7 is available internationally in two variants – Eco and Plus – both equipped with a 75.3kWh battery:
- Eco Variant:
- Front-wheel drive (FWD).
- Single motor generating 201hp and 310Nm of torque.
- WLTP range: 450km.
- Plus Variant:
- All-wheel drive (AWD).
- Dual-motor setup producing 348hp and 500Nm of torque.
- WLTP range: 431km.
Features and Technology
- Interior Highlights:
- Eco trim comes with a 12.9-inch infotainment touchscreen, while the Plus trim gets a 15-inch screen.
- Dual-tone interiors with premium materials.
- ADAS and Safety:
- Both trims feature Level 2 ADAS with systems like Highway Assist, Lane Centering Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Emergency Lane Keep Assist.
The VF 7’s sharp design, advanced safety features, and strong performance position it as a direct competitor to popular mid-size EVs like the MG ZS EV and Hyundai Kona Electric.
VinFast VF 9: A Flagship 7-Seater Premium Electric SUV
Dimensions and Exterior Design
The VinFast VF 9 is a full-size SUV measuring 5,119mm in length, making it larger than many traditional three-row SUVs like the Audi Q7. Its design highlights include:
- Sleek LED headlamps and LED DRLs.
- A sculpted bonnet and closed-off grille for aerodynamic efficiency.
- Flush door handles, blacked-out pillars, and bold alloy wheels.
- Vibrant color options like Crimson Red, VinFast Blue, and Jet Black.
Interior and Features
- Tech and Comfort:
- A massive 15.6-inch infotainment system.
- Heated steering wheel and ventilated first- and second-row seats with massage functions.
- Panoramic fixed glass roof and premium sound system.
- Air quality control system for cabin comfort.
- Safety and Connectivity:
- Comprehensive ADAS suite.
- Advanced connectivity options for a seamless user experience.
Powertrain and Performance
The VF 9 features a 123kWh battery pack and dual-motor AWD system delivering:
- Output: 402hp and 620Nm of torque.
- Range:
- Eco Variant: 531km (WLTP).
- Plus Variant: 468km (WLTP).
Charging Capabilities
Both variants support ultra-fast charging, achieving 10%-70% charge in just 35 minutes.
With its spacious interior, premium features, and robust powertrain, the VF 9 targets competitors like the BMW iX and Mercedes-Benz EQB in the luxury electric SUV segment.
VinFast’s India Strategy
VinFast is not only introducing premium products but also investing heavily in its ₹4,000 crore manufacturing facility in Tamil Nadu, which will serve as its production hub for the Indian market. The company’s decision to appoint Zac Hollis, former Skoda India Director, as its Asia Head further underscores its commitment to the region.
Participating in the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025 and Auto Expo 2025 will allow VinFast to:
- Showcase its technological advancements.
- Gather feedback from Indian customers and stakeholders.
- Build awareness about its innovative EV offerings.
Competition and Market Positioning
In the growing Indian EV market, VinFast VF 7 and VF 9 are set to compete against:
- Mid-size EV SUVs: MG ZS EV, Hyundai Kona Electric, Tata Curvv.
- Premium Electric SUVs: BMW iX, Mercedes-Benz EQB, Volvo XC90 Recharge.
Conclusion
VinFast’s debut at the 2025 Auto Expo with the VF 7 and VF 9 e-SUVs signals its intent to establish a strong presence in India’s EV market. With innovative designs, advanced features, and a factory under development in Tamil Nadu, the brand is positioning itself as a serious contender in the growing EV segment. Its success will depend on how well it competes with established players in this dynamic market.
