Are fully electric vehicles the more practical way to go? VinFast launched the VF3 electric mini-SUV in the Philippines on September 17, marketing it as a budget-friendly vehicle with lower operating costs compared to A-segment cars and some two-wheeled vehicles. However, these claims are based entirely on their internal evaluations without independent third-party validation.
The VF3's introduction here marks the model's first international release outside of its home market, Vietnam, and advertises it as a comfortable, weather-protected option, highlighting monthly operating costs that rival those of A-segment cars and gasoline-powered motorbikes. With the Philippines' growing motorcycle market, the VF3 is being positioned as an upgrade from two wheels that improves the overall mobility experience.
VinFast Philippines offers two pricing options for the VF3: P645,000 for the model with a battery subscription and P745,000 for outright battery purchase. The company emphasizes that the vehicle's true value lies in its operating costs over time.
Cost computation
To illustrate the cost benefits, VinFast compared the monthly operating costs of the VF3 with those of internal combustion engine (ICE) counterparts, including A-segment cars and gasoline motorbikes. The analysis examined the average fuel consumption of three A-segment ICE cars, priced between P660,000 and P840,000, and three gasoline motorbikes, ranging from P81,000 to P166,900. This resulted in an estimated fuel consumption of 5.803 L/100 km for cars and 2.12 L/100 km for motorbikes. The VF3’s energy consumption was calculated at 13.95 kWh/100 km, based on an average electricity rate of P11.34/kWh and a gasoline price of P64.34/L in the Philippines.
VinFast calculated the monthly operating costs of the VF3 for three travel scenarios (1,500, 2,500, and 3,500 kilometers), considering both battery purchase and subscription options. While the figures suggest that the VF3 offers significantly lower running costs compared to A-segment cars, and is only slightly more expensive than motorbikes, it is important to note that these calculations are based on VinFast-provided data.
For various travel distances, VinFast presented a comparison of monthly operating costs in Philippine Pesos. For 1,500 km, the average A-segment car costs P5,600, a motorbike costs P2,040, while the VF3 costs P2,300 with battery purchase or P5,200 with a battery subscription. For 2,500 km, the A-segment car costs P9,300, the motorbike costs P3,400, and the VF3 costs P4,000 with battery purchase or P7,800 with a battery subscription. For 3,500 km, the A-segment car costs P13,000, the motorbike costs P4,800, and the VF3 costs P5,500 with battery purchase or P11,700 with a battery subscription.
VF3 vs alternatives
VinFast claims that the VF3’s battery purchase option is nearly half the cost of operating an average A-segment car, particularly over longer distances. Even under the subscription model, the company asserts it remains cheaper than gasoline-powered cars, despite being more expensive than motorbikes due to subscription fees. However, the subscription model allows for a lower initial purchase price, which could help offset some long-term expenses.
The company also highlights that the VF3 provides significant advantages over traditional motorbikes, including greater comfort, air conditioning, and protection from the elements. The mini-SUV is compact and suited for urban commuting, offering safety features not typically available in motorbikes or A-segment cars. Additionally, VinFast emphasizes the lower maintenance needs of the VF3, a common benefit of electric vehicles. The absence of engine oil changes and the reduced number of moving parts are presented as advantages, suggesting lower maintenance costs compared to ICE vehicles. Nonetheless, it is advisable to approach these claims with caution until independently verified.
The VF3 comes with what VinFast describes as an appealing after-sales service package, including a seven-year or 160,000-kilometer warranty and an eight-year warranty with unlimited mileage for the battery if purchased outright. For those opting for the battery subscription, VinFast promises free battery replacement if charging capacity falls below 70%.
VinFast is positioning the VF3 as a cost-effective, comfortable, and practical choice for city dwellers in the Philippines, particularly for those seeking an affordable entry into electric vehicles. However, prospective buyers should be aware that these claims are based solely on internal data from VinFast without independent third-party verification. Those considering the VF3 may want to wait for unbiased reviews or independent tests to see if real-world performance meets the manufacturer’s promises.