VinFast, the Vietnamese automaker, is making waves in the electric vehicle market with its latest offering, the VF 9. The company has recently revealed the EPA ranges for this highly anticipated electric crossover, and it’s clear that VinFast is aiming to compete with some of the biggest players in the industry.
The VF 9 comes in two trims: the VF 9 Eco and the VF 9 Plus. The Eco trim starts at $83,000 and boasts an impressive range of 330 miles (531 km). On the other hand, the Plus trim, which is priced at $91,000, offers a slightly lower range of 291 miles (468 km). Both trims are equipped with a 123 kWh battery pack that powers a dual motor all-wheel drive system, delivering 402 hp (300 kW / 408 PS) and 457 lb-ft (620 Nm) of torque. With these specifications, the VF 9 can accelerate from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in approximately 6.5 seconds.
One of the standout features of the VF 9 is its design. The crossover is designed by Pininfarina, the renowned Italian design firm, and it certainly shows. The VF 9 features sleek lines and a modern aesthetic that is sure to turn heads on the road. The standard model comes with 20-inch wheels, while the Plus trim offers larger 21-inch wheels. Customers can also opt for even bigger 22-inch wheels on the Plus trim.
In terms of size, the VF 9 falls between the Mercedes EQS SUV and the Tesla Model X. It measures 201.4 inches (5,118 mm) in length and has a wheelbase of 124 inches (3,150 mm). In comparison, the Mercedes EQS SUV is slightly longer at 201.9 inches (5,128 mm) with a wheelbase of 126.4 inches (3,211 mm), while the Tesla Model X is shorter at 199.1 inches (5,057 mm) in length and has a wheelbase of 116.7 inches (2,965 mm).
Inside the VF 9, VinFast has focused on providing a luxurious and comfortable experience for passengers. The Eco trim comes with leatherette upholstery, a dual-zone climate control system, a 13-speaker audio system, and a 15.6-inch infotainment system. The Plus trim takes it up a notch with fancier front seats, “vegan leather” upholstery, a tri-zone climate control system, a panoramic glass roof, an 8-inch rear display, and the option for second-row captain chairs.
While the VF 9 offers impressive features and performance, it faces stiff competition from established players in the electric vehicle market. The Tesla Model X, for example, starts at $88,490 and offers quicker acceleration, going from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in just 4.4 seconds. However, the Model X has a shorter range of approximately 269 miles (433 km). The Tesla Model X Long Range variant starts at $98,490 and offers a range of 348 miles (560 km), but at a higher price point.
VinFast’s entry into the electric vehicle market is certainly ambitious, and the company is positioning itself as a serious contender. With its stylish design, impressive range, and luxurious features, the VF 9 is poised to attract attention from consumers looking for a high-performance electric crossover. U.S. deliveries are set to begin in the fourth quarter of this year, and it will be interesting to see how VinFast’s offering stacks up against the competition.
In conclusion, VinFast’s VF 9 is making waves in the electric vehicle market with its impressive range and luxurious features. With its sleek design and powerful performance, the VF 9 is set to compete with established players like Tesla. As VinFast continues to expand its presence in the electric vehicle market, it will be exciting to see what the future holds for this ambitious automaker.