Introducing the VinFast VF8 and VF9 Electric SUVs
Meagan Wristen
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VinFast is Vietnam’s manufacturer of electric SUV’s, and they are coming to the U.S. fast and fierce.
In recent years, the automotive industry has seen a lot of exciting new developments. From electric cars to driverless vehicles, it’s clear that we are on the cusp of a revolution in transportation. But one of the most interesting developments is coming out of Vietnam. VinFast, a Vietnamese car manufacturer, has recently released its first two models for preorder: The VF8 and VF9 electric SUV’s. I traveled to their headquarters to learn what makes these vehicles unique.
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Check out the tech in the VF8. Photo: Meagan Wristen
VF8 Features and Design have Comfort and Efficiency in Mind
Its sleek exterior is both eye-catching and aerodynamic, while its interior is spacious enough for up to five people—with plenty of room for luggage as well. One of the main driving forces in the interior choices was to be of higher quality than a Tesla’s interior.
The VF8 also comes equipped with amenities like climate control, power windows, leather seats, and an adjustable steering wheel. It features a variety of safety features such as lane departure warning systems, automatic emergency braking systems, forward collision warning systems, adaptive cruise control, and blind spot detection.
Underneath it has a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine capable of producing 155 horsepower while still getting up to 40 miles economy ratings–making it one of the most efficient cars coming on to the market today!
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The VinFast VF9. Photo: Meagan Wristen
VF9 Features and Design Goals are the Same as the VF8, but With More Features
The VF9 has a significantly larger battery capacity than the VF8—allowing for longer trips between charges—as well as an improved suspension system for better handling on challenging roads. Other noteworthy features include adaptive cruise control, automatic parking assist, blind spot monitoring systems, 360-degree cameras, and wireless charging capabilities.
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VinFast Vehicles’ Performance is Impressive
The Vietnamese versions of both the VF8 and the VF9 come with two electric motors – one powering each axle – giving them four-wheel drive capabilities and allowing them to reach speeds up to 130 km/h (80 mph). They can accelerate from 0-60 km/h (0-37 mph) in just 6 seconds! On top of that, both models boast exceptional fuel efficiency ratings – making them ideal for long road trips or daily commutes alike.
To be clear, I drove the Vietnamese version of the VF8, not the version that will be coming to America. Information on the VF9 was shared with me, but I did not actually get to experience the VF9. I got to view it, but only from the outside.
Coming to America
Not only is VinFast bringing their electric SUVs to America, they are also building a manufacturing facility in North Carolina. The first phase will be the vehicle manufacturing plant and the second will be a battery pack manufacturing facility. Due to the pandemic causing chain supply issues, VinFast ended up making its own batteries. At this point, they make all aspects of the vehicles including everything from the electronics to the plastic!
VinFast has created something special with its first two models: The VF8 and VF9 electric SUVs. These cars combine stylish design with impressive performance—and they’re green too! If you’re looking for an efficient yet powerful vehicle that won’t break the environment—you owe it to yourself to check out the latest offerings from VinFast!
Disclosure: I was a guest of VinFast to tour their headquarters and drive the VF8. Travel and accommodations were provided, all opinions are my own.