Federal Investigation Launched into Fatal VinFast VF 8 Crash in California

Preliminary Investigation Details

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has initiated a preliminary investigation into a tragic accident involving a VinFast VF 8 in Pleasanton, California. The incident occurred in April and resulted in the loss of a family of four.

Accident Description

According to police reports, the electric vehicle (EV) lost control, collided with a tree, and caught fire, leading to the unfortunate demise of the George family. The owner of the VF 8 had previously encountered a steering malfunction, raising concerns about the safety of the vehicle.

Victims of the Crash

Tarun and Rincy George, along with their two children aged nine and 13, were the victims of this fatal accident. The crash occurred when their EV hit an oak tree and caught fire. Initial investigations suggested that speed might have been a contributing factor.

NHTSA Involvement

The NHTSA’s involvement was prompted by a complaint from the VF 8 owner, who had loaned the vehicle to Tarun George. The owner reported a steering issue with the SUV in the past and suspected it might have played a role in the tragic accident.

VinFast’s Response

VinFast expressed condolences to the George family through a spokesperson, acknowledging the ongoing investigation into the accident. The company assured cooperation with authorities to determine the cause of the crash.

Background on VinFast

VinFast introduced its VF 8 electric SUV in the U.S. market in January 2023. However, the brand faced challenges with recalls related to infotainment screens and received criticism from reviewers. Despite initial sales struggles, VinFast’s sales are showing improvement in 2024.