Vietnamese EV maker, VinFast, one of the newest entrants in India’s EV market, has seen steady early traction in a still niche segment. Since starting sales in September 2025, the carmaker has averaged roughly 350 units a month with its VF6 and VF7, totalling 2,390 units in FY2026. This places it broadly in line with other EV players, with brands like Hyundai, averaging around 490 units a month, BYD at about 446, and Kia at roughly 311 units in the same period.
Speaking to Autocar India, VinFast India CEO Tapan Ghosh said, “The key factor which is driving VF6 and VF7 is the value customers are getting, at a competitive price.” He added that customers are also responding to the overall ownership package and product positioning.
Exchange schemes and total cost of ownership
VinFast is offering a range of schemes aimed at reducing upfront costs and improving long-term value. Under its ‘Trade Gas for Electric’ programme, buyers upgrading from an ICE vehicle can avail a 3 percent discount. The company’s ‘Value Assured’ programme includes exchange benefits of up to Rs 1.30 lakh and an assured buyback value, depending on ownership duration. Highlighting this approach, Ghosh said, “We have a very attractive exchange scheme from ICE to EV... we want customers to adopt EV.”
The company's strategy is also centred on lowering ownership costs and addressing concerns around EV resale value. Ghosh said, “Customers are also liking how we are taking care of the overall cost of ownership, 3 years free maintenance, 10 years warranty on battery along with 10 years warranty on VF7 and 7 years on the VF6.”
He added that resale value remains a key concern for buyers: “Customers are not very sure about the resale price, what they are appreciating is that we are giving a guaranteed residual value of 75 percent after 2 years and 55 percent after 5 years. These are things customers really like.”
Network expansion and future plans
VinFast is scaling up its service and charging network to support growth. Ghosh said, “We already have 130 plus workshops, including tie-ups with third party service networks and this year we are planning to have 234 workshops.” He added that partner networks have already set up "around 300 charging stations, with plans to expand further."
The EV maker is also targeting demand beyond metros, particularly in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities where home charging is more easily accessible. Ghosh said, “There is a lot of curiosity and interest in EV products even in tier 2 and tier 3 cities. Many customers have their own house where charging becomes easy, and they are driving in the city, so even charging once can make the vehicle run for a week or so.”
Further, VinFast is preparing to expand its product line-up with new models, including the VF3 micro EV, VF9 and MPV7 expected to be introduced in the country soon.
Suraj Viswanathan
Uday Singh
Viraaj Bhatnagar
Glenn Noronha
