VinFast EC Van: Revolutionizing the Traditional Light Truck Scene

This is the company’s first all-electric urban delivery vehicle, with a starting price of VND 285 million.

The VinFast EC Van targets not only the need for urban cargo transportation but also opens up a new competition against established names such as the Suzuki Blind Van and affordable Chinese light trucks.

Niche Market: A Significant Advantage

The light truck segment in urban areas, dominated by compact models like the Suzuki Blind Van, Dongben X30, SRM, and Changan Star, is facing increasing pressure from factors such as emissions, operating costs, and tightening inspection policies. In this context, the arrival of an all-electric truck with a compact and convenient design like the EC Van could be a timely solution for small businesses, logistics companies, and e-commerce distribution chains.

With a cargo volume of 2,600 liters, a payload of over 600 kg, and a range of approximately 150 km per charge, the EC Van is optimized for intra-city delivery needs, from quick deliveries, food, to goods from wholesale markets.

Blind Van – A Formidable Rival

The Suzuki Blind Van has long been a popular choice due to its reliable performance. However, with a price tag of around VND 293 million, this 1.0L gasoline-powered van faces several disadvantages. Its outdated gasoline engine and emission standards fall short of the regulations that will come into force in 2026 in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, causing this model to gradually lose its competitive edge in the urban environment.

In contrast, the VinFast EC Van, with its zero-emission electric motor, is free from concerns about gasoline vehicle bans and holds the upper hand in terms of long-term viability.

Pressure on Chinese Light Trucks

Chinese light trucks like the Dongben X30, SRM, and Changan Star offer attractive pricing and decent cargo capacity. However, concerns about their build quality, long-term durability, and the availability of maintenance and after-sales services remain significant psychological barriers for Vietnamese consumers.

On the other hand, VinFast, with its extensive network of showrooms and service centers nationwide and clear warranty policies, can provide long-term confidence to small businesses and small and medium-sized logistics enterprises.

Operating Costs: The Deciding Factor

The key factor that sets the VinFast EC Van apart from its rivals in the light truck segment is its superior operating costs. As small businesses and delivery companies increasingly focus on long-term cost efficiency, choosing a vehicle with low fuel and maintenance costs becomes crucial.

Compared to a traditional gasoline-powered vehicle like the Suzuki Blind Van, the EC Van offers significant advantages. On average, the EC Van consumes only about VND 500,000 worth of electricity per month for a full charge, while the Blind Van can guzzle up to VND 2 million worth of gasoline. This discrepancy results in a monthly savings of approximately VND 1.5 million, equivalent to over VND 18-20 million per year, a substantial amount for owners who frequently operate within city limits.

It’s not just about fuel costs; the EC Van also excels in maintenance. Being an electric vehicle, the EC Van eliminates the need for oil changes, clutch replacements, air filter changes, and spark plug maintenance—common expenses associated with gasoline vehicles. This reduction in potential breakdowns and periodic maintenance costs gives owners peace of mind, especially when the vehicle is in high-frequency use.

As urban areas move towards emission reduction and operational efficiency, low usage costs give the EC Van a strategic advantage, making it an attractive choice not only technologically but also economically in the long run.

More Than a Product, It’s a Trend

With large cities starting to restrict gasoline vehicles, tighten emission controls, and promote the use of zero-emission vehicles, the birth of the VinFast EC Van is not just a new option but a turning point in market thinking.

VinFast doesn’t focus on luxurious amenities or high performance. Instead, it targets what the market needs: low cost, easy operation, zero emissions, and accessibility. This formula for success in the urban light truck segment considers even the smallest operating cost to impact profit margins.

EC Van – Challenging the Old Order

The VinFast EC Van is more than just a new electric truck; it’s a bold statement from the Vietnamese automaker that they are ready to take on the old “monuments,” from the Suzuki Blind Van to Chinese offerings. By combining low operating costs, an urban-friendly design, and a sustainable focus, the EC Van has the potential to become the “game-changer” in the traditional light truck segment.

With the electrification trend becoming increasingly apparent and more concrete policies supporting electric vehicles, it’s not an overstatement to say that the VinFast EC Van is the new “strategic ace” that could revolutionize urban logistics in Vietnam.

TH (Tuoitrethudo)