In a strategic move to tap into India’s burgeoning electric vehicle market, Vietnamese automaker VinFast Auto has kicked off the construction of its cutting-edge manufacturing facility in Tamil Nadu.
With an investment of Rs 16,000 crore, VinFast aims to establish a strong foothold in the Indian market, mirroring the success it has achieved globally. As part of its expansion plans, the company has filed a patent for its first offering in India, the VinFast Auto VF3 electric mini-SUV.
Patent for VinFast Auto VF3
The VinFast Auto VF3 electric mini-SUV marks the company’s foray into the Indian market, bringing with it a blend of innovation and contemporary design.
Launched at the prestigious 2024 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, the VF3 boasts a bold and compact body design, setting it apart in the crowded SUV segment. With a 2-door layout and a spacious 5-seater configuration, the VF3 offers both style and practicality for urban commuters.
Exterior Design
The VF3 showcases a distinctive exterior design characterized by its boxy body, square headlights, and the iconic V-shaped bird logo adorning the front and rear. Thick side claddings, a chunky bumper, and a dual-tone paint scheme further accentuate its rugged yet modern appeal.
With dimensions measuring 3190 mm in length, 1,679 mm in width, and 1,620 mm in height, the VF3 strikes the perfect balance between agility and spaciousness, offering a generous boot space of around 550 liters.
Interior Comfort
Step inside the VF3, and you’ll be greeted by a host of features designed to enhance comfort and convenience on every journey. The cabin boasts a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system with support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring seamless connectivity on the go.
The second row of seats is completely foldable, maximizing versatility and cargo space for all your travel needs. From automatic climate control to dual airbags and cruise control, the VF3 prioritizes safety and convenience for both driver and passengers alike.
Manufacturing Plant
The foundation stone for VinFast’s state-of-the-art manufacturing plant was laid by Tamil Nadu’s Chief Minister MK Stalin, signaling the company’s commitment to local production and job creation.
Spanning across a sprawling 400-acre land in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, the new facility is expected to generate thousands of employment opportunities and contribute significantly to the local economy. With an annual production capacity exceeding 1.5 lakh vehicles, VinFast aims to meet the growing demand for electric vehicles in India efficiently.
Reduction Advocacy
In line with its expansion plans, VinFast has been lobbying for a reduction in import duties imposed on fully-built EVs in India. Similar to Tesla Inc., VinFast seeks to ease import duty burdens to facilitate a smoother transition into the Indian market.
While the Indian government has contemplated special duty cuts for companies like Tesla and VinFast, resistance from domestic automakers has complicated the decision-making process. However, VinFast remains optimistic, proposing temporary reductions in import duty taxes to encourage consumer adoption before the local manufacturing plant becomes fully operational.
Conclusion
As VinFast accelerates its expansion into the Indian market, the launch of the VF3 electric mini-SUV and the construction of its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility mark significant milestones in the company’s journey.
With a focus on innovation, quality, and affordability, VinFast is poised to make a lasting impact on India’s electric vehicle landscape, offering consumers a compelling alternative in the rapidly evolving automotive industry.
