VinFast, the rapidly emerging Vietnamese automotive brand, has introduced its small VF3 EV in the Philippines. This model offers an affordable and eco-friendly option for urban dwellers looking for a coding-exempt, small runabout vehicle. Specifically designed for urban life, the VF 3 features compact dimensions, efficient power, and a practical range, making it a strong contender for those looking to embrace electric mobility.
The VF 3 boasts a compact footprint, measuring just over 3 meters in length. With a two-meter wheelbase, the VF 3 is adept at navigating narrow city streets. It's interesting to see that the VF3 wears 16-inch steel wheels with 175/75-series tires, giving it 191 mm of ground clearance that is perfect for the city’s speedbumps, potholes, and inclines.
Powered by a 43.5 Ps electric motor that produces 110 Nm of torque, the VF 3 features a modest yet capable powertrain. Coupled with an 18.64 kWh lithium-ion battery, it can cover up to 210 kilometers on a full charge, making it ideal for daily commutes. Additionally, a segment-first fast charging capability allows the battery to charge from 10% to 70% in just 36 minutes when using DC fast chargers.
The VF 3 showcases a modern, youthful design available in nine exterior color options, including four base colors and five premium shades. Designed by Australian firm Gomotiv, the VF3 echoes the familiar shapes of both old and new popular vehicles, while maintaining its own quirky look. Despite its compact size, the car comfortably seats four passengers, and the foldable rear seats expand the cargo space from almost nothing to 285 liters, providing flexibility for daily errands or weekend getaways.
Inside, the spacious cabin is optimized for comfort and practicality, highlighted by a large 10-inch infotainment screen that ensures connectivity and entertainment are always available. The sleek, minimalist dashboard and modern controls create a comfortable environment for both driver and passengers. There are a lot of hard plastics inside, but that’s typical of the segment. To further keep prices down, the VF3 retains a lot of manual controls, such as for seat adjustments and for the external side mirrors.
Initial driving impressions (twice around the block in Aseana, Paranaque City) are positive. The driving is easy once you figure out the stalk-mounted drive controls. Just put it in drive and away you go. The 110 Nm of torque available on an 857 kg car, plus approximately 100 kg more with myself and two other passengers, makes for a decent, zippy vehicle. The ride is firm, but solid, and may have been a tire-pressure issue more than anything else. Visibility in and around the car is fantastic, and with its compact dimensions, it’s easy to squeeze in and out of tight spaces. It feels small, but with the tall tires and vehicle height, you never feel smaller than any of the other cars on the road.
One of the VF 3's standout features is its affordability, with an introductory price of 605,000 pesos for the battery subscription option and 705,000 pesos for the battery-included model during the initial reservation period from September 19 to 30. After this period, prices will revert to the MSRP of 645,000 pesos and 745,000 pesos, respectively.
For those choosing the battery subscription model, VinFast offers various flexible plans to accommodate different driving needs. Monthly subscription fees start at 2,800 pesos for distances up to 1,500 kilometers, 3,800 pesos for up to 2,500 kilometers, and 6,300 pesos for those exceeding 2,500 kilometers. This flexibility allows drivers to manage costs based on their usage, providing a tailored approach to electric vehicle ownership. Exceptional After-Sales Support
Each vehicle comes with a seven-year/160,000 km warranty, along with an 8-year unlimited mileage battery warranty for those who purchase the battery outright. Customers on the battery subscription plan benefit from free battery maintenance and replacement if the battery's capacity drops below 70%. VinFast includes a portable charger with every vehicle, ensuring that drivers are never left stranded.
To celebrate the VF 3’s launch, VinFast is offering several incentives for early adopters. From September 19 to 30, customers who reserve the VF 3 can take advantage of discounted prices and select from nine color options at no extra charge. After this period, premium paint colors will cost an additional 20,000 pesos. Early customers can also customize their VF 3’s paint beyond the standard options for just 40,000 pesos, an exclusive offer not available after the reservation period. Reservations can be made with a fully refundable 5,000-peso deposit, allowing potential buyers to secure their VF 3 while capitalizing on early-bird offers.