VinFast, the Vietnamese automaker start-up, made a splash at the 2021 Los Angeles auto show when it revealed two electric SUVs, the VF e35 and the VF e36. Both SUVs were reportedly designed by Pinafarina and engineered by Vinfast, and have an estimated driving range of 460 to 680 kilometres, depending on the model.
While many details pertaining to VinFast’s new EVs remain under wraps (including pricing), Canadian delivery is expected sometime in late 2022 and early 2023 based on the ambitious production plans revealed by the automaker.
VinFast e36
Notably, VinFast is Vietnam’s first domestic auto manufacturer, with goals to establish a firm foothold in the US, Canadian and European EV markets by the end of next year with the VF e35 and VF e36. Speaking to their proposed expansion, Michael Lohscheller, CEO of VinFast Global, shares that Canada represents an important market with good potential for EV adoption.
With this in mind, VinFast is aiming to have 38 company-owned retail stores across the country by the end of 2023. While Lohscheller did not disclose exact locations, prospective drivers can expect to see them first in downtown centres, malls and suburban areas around major cities like Toronto and Vancouver. VinFast also has plans to open 60 showrooms across the US, with a US$200 million ($253.5 million) investment slated for a Los Angeles headquarters.
Pre-orders for Canadians are expected to open in the first half of next year.
