Vietnamese automaker, VinFast, has released its most affordable electric vehicle (EV) yet, the VF 5 Plus electric SUV. and it seems people can’t get enough of it. Starting at approximately $23,000, VinFast received over 3,000 reservations within nine hours of opening orders. This comes after the company produced and delivered Vietnam’s first fully electric vehicle and vowed to end gas-powered vehicle production in favour of a fully electric lineup.
VinFast has stepped into the US market, shipping its first batch of VF 8 electric SUVs to the US last November and becoming the first Vietnamese automaker to sell cars in the US earlier this year. However, facing EV giant Tesla in its local market, VinFast has been forced to reduce VF 8 prices and offer tax credits to entice new customers.
The VF 5 Plus is VinFast’s answer to the need for a more affordable electric model. The compact SUV delivers 100 kW (134 hp) maximum power and 135 Nm (100 lb-ft) of torque, powered by a 37.23 kWh lithium-ion battery pack that can drive over 300 km (186 miles) on a full charge.
VinFast CEO Madam Le Thi Thu Thuy said, “The launch of the VF 5 Plus will provide customers with additional choices that suit the needs of the majority, thereby encouraging consumers to switch to electric vehicles and contributing to a sustainable future for all.”
The VF5 Plus costs about $19,500, with a monthly battery subscription fee of about $68.
VinFast has not yet announced whether the VF 5 electric SUV will be available in the US. However, VinFast has shipped about 1,900 VF 8 to the US and Canada with Canadian deliveries expected in June.
