Dealer Urges VinFast to Bring VF 3 to the US

The VF 3 is projected to have a price tag below $20,000 (equivalent to 490 million VND), making it suitable for low-income Americans.

VinFast is currently in the process of establishing a retail network across the US, transitioning from direct sales to a distribution dealer model.

The decision to sell the VF 3 in the US is driven by partner demand. VinFast stated in an exchange with Automotive News: “We are in negotiations with many reputable distributors across the US. The initial responses have been very positive, with the distributors showing interest in VinFast and our electric models.”

VinFast also stated, “We are conducting market research for the VF 3 in the US following the positive feedback from the distributors. More detailed information will be announced later.”

Duke Hale, a VinFast market advisor, revealed that the Vietnamese electric carmaker showcased the VF 3 at dealerships in Tampa, Florida and Dallas, Texas last month. During the meeting with the dealers, approximately 100 attendees expressed their interest in the VF 3 for the US market. Hale mentioned, “They like the entire range of products, but regarding the VF 3, I must say there was nearly a 100% positive response. They really like the VF 3, and the reason is probably the price below $20,000.”

VinFast has already launched the VF 8 and VF 9 models and plans to introduce the VF 6 and VF 7 in the US. Additionally, the company is constructing a production plant in North Carolina to manufacture cars. The four electric crossover models mentioned cover various segments, ranging from small to large three-row seaters.

However, according to Duke Hale, the VF 3 brings unique advantages that no other manufacturer can provide. This model is expected to have a price of only $20,000, and customers in the US who purchase the VF 3 may be eligible to receive a $7,500 subsidy (approximately 190 million VND) through the federal electric vehicle rebate policy. As a result, the actual value of the VF 3 could drop to around $12,500 (equivalent to 300 million VND).

Regarding the reasons why US dealers are interested in having a mini car in a market where consumers prefer larger vehicles, Hale identified two factors: “leading competitive price in the market and a young customer group.”

The average price of cars in the US is currently nearing a record high of $47,892 (about 1.16 billion VND), and less than 0.3% of new cars sold have a price below $20,000. Additionally, the significant increase in bank interest rates has made it challenging for individuals with below-average income to purchase new cars. Furthermore, recent reports have indicated that affordable car models are gradually disappearing from the market. Therefore, the market for the VF 3 in the US is considered to be very open.

Thái Son (Tuoitrethudo)

Reference: Automotive