Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai Motor) and TVS Motor Company Ltd. (TVS Motor) have signed a Joint Development Agreement (JDA) to advance the development and commercialization of innovative Electric Three-Wheeler (E3W) solutions designed specifically to address India's last-mile mobility needs.

Hyundai Motor Company and TVS Motor Company sign Joint Development Agreement to deliver and commercialize electric three-wheelers in India and additional markets

The partnership formalized following the successful presentation of the E3W concept at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025, represents a significant step towards bringing tailored mobility solutions to Indian consumers and reinforces both companies' commitment to sustainable urban transportation.

Under the agreement, Hyundai Motor will lead the design of and co-develop the E3W by leveraging its research and development expertise, advanced mobility technologies and human-centric design approach.

“Hyundai Motor Company has long explored ways to contribute to improving India’s transportation environment as a key market, and our collaboration with TVS Motor is a strategic decision rooted in that effort. We hope the co-developed E3W enables broader access to safer and more sustainable transportation for people across the country,” – Joongsun Ko, Senior Vice President of Corporate Strategy & Planning at Hyundai Motor Company.

The E3W will be engineered to address India's unique mobility challenges while delivering sustainable solutions aligned with local road conditions and urban infrastructure.

TVS Motor will co-develop the product using its leading-edge electric platform, extensive three-wheeler engineering expertise and deep local market knowledge. Leveraging its long legacy of trust and quality focus, TVS will also lead local sales, with its manufacturing operations in India catering to Indian market demand and future exports. 

Commenting on the development, Sharad Mishra, President, Group Strategy, TVS Motor Company, said, “At TVS Motor Company, we aim to transform quality of life through sustainable and accessible mobility. The Joint Development Agreement marks an important step in our partnership with Hyundai Motor Company and advances our shared ambition to develop electric three-wheeler solutions. By bringing together complementary strengths - including our electric three-wheeler platform, engineering expertise, and deep understanding of customer needs - we are well-positioned to deliver purpose-built products for India and additional markets. This collaboration reinforces our commitment to scalable, sustainable last-mile mobility while setting new benchmarks in technology, quality, customer experience, and a legacy of trust."

Both companies are committed to delivering the first vehicle in India - the world’s largest three-wheeler market - as part of the JDA marking a significant milestone in sustainable last-mile mobility innovation.

A cornerstone of this partnership is the commitment to localize component manufacturing for the E3W model’s production. Major components will be sourced and manufactured locally within India. This strategic approach serves multiple objectives: it strengthens India's automotive supply chain ecosystem, creates employment opportunities, reduces overall vehicle costs and ensures rapid after-sales support and spare parts availability for end customers.

From Concept to Reality

The E3W concept unveiled at Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025 showcased innovative features tailored to Indian mobility challenges. These include adaptive ground clearance for monsoon-affected roads, enhanced safety features, ergonomic design for extended commutes, enhanced thermal management for tropical climates and flexible interior configurations for multiple use cases – from passenger transport to goods delivery and emergency services.

The agreement formalizes the transition from concept exploration to concrete product development and mass production. The vehicle will undergo rigorous testing, localization refinement and certification processes to meet Indian regulatory standards and customer expectations. 

Hyundai Motor's vision of "Progress for Humanity" extends to reimagining mobility solutions for emerging markets. By combining the company’s global engineering excellence with TVS Motor's unparalleled understanding of electric mobility and Indian customers, this partnership is positioned to deliver an E3W offering that balances technology, affordability, sustainability and safety. Aligned with TVS Motor’s vision of transforming quality of life across the world through mobility solutions that are exciting, responsible, sustainable and safe, this product is set to drive the change that the India of tomorrow needs.

Both companies have established dedicated cross-functional teams to accelerate development timelines and the regulatory approval processes.

About TVS Motor Company
TVS Motor Company (BSE:532343 and NSE: TVSMOTOR) is a reputed two and three-wheeler manufacturer globally, championing progress through sustainable mobility with four state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities located in India and Indonesia. Rooted in our 100-year legacy of trust, value, and passion for customers, it takes pride in making internationally accepted products of the highest quality through innovative and sustainable processes. TVS Motor is the only two-wheeler company to have won the prestigious Deming Prize. Our products have led in their respective categories in the J.D.Power IQS & APEAL surveys and J.D.Power Customer Service Satisfaction Survey. Our group company Norton Motorcycles, based in the United Kingdom, is one of the most emotive motorcycle brands in the world. Our subsidiary in the personal e-mobility space, TVS Ebike Company AG, has a leading position in the e-bike market in Switzerland. TVS Motor Company endeavours to deliver the most superior customer experience across 80 countries in which we operate. 
 

About Hyundai Motor Company
Established in 1967, Hyundai Motor Company is present in over 200 countries with more than 120,000 employees dedicated to tackling real-world mobility challenges around the globe. Based on the brand vision ‘Progress for Humanity,’ Hyundai Motor is accelerating its transformation into a Smart Mobility Solution Provider. The company invests in advanced technologies such as robotics and Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) to bring about revolutionary mobility solutions while pursuing open innovation to introduce future mobility services. In pursuit of a sustainable future for the world, Hyundai will continue its efforts to introduce zero-emission vehicles with industry-leading hydrogen fuel cell and EV technologies.

More information about Hyundai Motor and its products can be found at: www.hyundai.com/worldwide/en/ or Newsroom: Media Hub by Hyundai
 

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VinFast recently extended free charging at V-Green stations until March 31, 2029, allowing customers to charge their vehicles at no cost for several years

VinFast believes the answer becomes clearer with its latest ownership program. The company recently extended free charging at V-Green stations until March 31, 2029, allowing customers to charge their vehicles at no cost for several years.

This charging program is supported by V-Green, a global EV charging infrastructure company focused on building and operating charging networks for VinFast vehicles. In India, V-Green has been steadily expanding its presence, including a recent partnership with Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) to deploy EV chargers across HPCL’s fuel station network nationwide, helping bring charging access to major cities, highways and key transport corridors as the country’s EV market grows.

Free charging reshapes the cost of driving

To really see the benefits of VinFast’s latest free charging program, one only needs to make one simple comparison.

In early March 2026, petrol in New Delhi was priced around Rs. 94.77 per litre, with similar levels across many major cities. Assuming a typical and balanced real-world estimate of 15.5 km per litre for mid-size SUVs, a driver covering about 1,350 km per month would consume roughly 87 litres of petrol monthly.

At Rs. 94.77 per litre, that equals about Rs. 8,200 per month in fuel spending. Over three years, that reaches roughly Rs. 3 lakh.

Now, take the VinFast VF 7 as an example. The vehicle carries a 75.3 kWh battery and offers a driving range of about 450 km. That works out to an energy consumption of roughly 16.7 kWh per 100 km. For someone driving around 1,350 km per month, the car would need about 225 kWh of electricity.

Public EV charging in India typically costs Rs. 10-Rs. 17 per kWh, depending on the charging network and location. Using the midpoint of that range, about Rs. 13.5 per kWh, charging the VF 7 would normally cost around Rs. 3,000 per month for someone driving 1,350 km.

Even at that rate, electricity remains significantly cheaper than petrol. Under the same driving assumptions, a typical petrol SUV would spend roughly Rs. 8,200 per month on fuel. And with VinFast’s extended free charging program, because owners can charge at V-Green stations without paying until March 2029, the electricity cost during the first years effectively drops to zero.

For a driver travelling 1,350 km each month, that removes about Rs. 8,200 in fuel expenses every month. Over a year, the savings add up to roughly Rs. 98,000, and over three years to about Rs. 2.9 lakh.

“When people actually sit down and run the numbers, they start seeing EVs as a truly cost-effective alternative, not just an experiment,” said Arjun Mehta, a veteran sales advisor in Bengaluru.

EV economics go beyond charging

But the charging program is only part of the picture.

A conventional engine has many mechanical parts that wear over time, which is why regular servicing typically involves oil changes, spark plugs, filters and other components.

Meanwhile, electric drivetrains are mechanically simpler, so maintenance tends to be lighter. In this respect, VinFast adds another layer of cost savings by offering free maintenance for three years or up to 36,000 km, whichever comes first.

Most recently, Vingroup, the parent company of VinFast, launched a special “Trade Gas for Electric” program running from March 11 to April 30, 2026, offering an additional 3 percent discount on VinFast electric cars for customers trading in a petrol vehicle. The program is being rolled out simultaneously across several markets, including India, and applies on top of existing incentives.

In addition, the company already provides financial support for drivers switching from petrol or diesel vehicles. Buyers who sell their existing internal combustion vehicle and purchase a VinFast EV receive a direct cash discount on the purchase price.

Taken together, these factors gradually tilt the ownership math toward electric vehicles. Fuel savings play the biggest role, but lower servicing costs and purchase incentives also contribute.

For many buyers evaluating EVs today, the question is becoming less about technology and more about everyday expenses.

Mr. Tapan Ghosh, CEO of VinFast India, at the launch of all-new VF MPV 7 at New Delhi

Designed around the insight that space remains the primary consideration for multi-generational Indian families, with a theatre-style seating layout and a truly spacious third row, the VF MPV 7 seats seven in comfort. It has a wheelbase of 2,840 mm and offers up to 1,240 litres of storage, accommodating luggage, daily essentials, and the lifestyle demands of family life with equal ease.

Mr. Tapan Ghosh, CEO of VinFast India, launched the all-new, spacious VF MPV 7 for the Indian market at ₹24.48 lakh (Ex-Showroom one India one price)

A 60.13 kWh lithium-ion battery delivers a range of 517 kilometres on a full charge (ARAI certified), while fast charging replenishes the battery from 10 to 70 per cent in 30 minutes. Delivering 150 kW and 280 Nm of torque via front-wheel drive, it accelerates from 0-100 km/h in under 10 seconds. The exterior design features all-LED lighting, completing a vehicle that is genuinely premium inside and out.

Mr. Tapan Ghosh, CEO of VinFast India and Mr. Nguyen Duc Hieu, Deputy Director Vehicle Program at VinFast, at the launch of all-new VF MPV 7 at New Delhi

In addition, the VF MPV 7 comes with a comprehensive ownership package, including 3-year free maintenance, a 10-year battery warranty, a 7-year vehicle warranty, a 5-year suspension warranty, a 7-year paint warranty, and 7 years of roadside assistance, delivering a best-in-segment assurance package for customers.

Mr. Tapan Ghosh, CEO of VinFast India, said, “The all-new VF MPV 7 is VinFast’s third product for India, and is most suited for customers with large families. It is designed to offer generous space for every member of the family, comfort that makes even the longest journeys feel effortless, and intelligent features that elevate every single drive. With the VF MPV 7, we are entering a new segment, but more importantly, we are expanding our commitment to India.”

Product Highlights - All New VF MPV 7

• Exterior style: Bold upright front fascia with signature V light.

• Standout dimensions in the 7-seater electric MPV segment: The VF MPV 7 measures 4,740 mm in length, 1,872 mm in width, and 1,734 mm in height, offering generous space for all occupants.

• Longest wheelbase for enhanced cabin comfort: The best-in-segment 2,840 mm wheelbase provides ample cabin space for all occupants.

• Modern and sophisticated integrated gear stalk on the steering column.

Premium modern exterior styling: Clean, simple lines and subtle contours across the body of the VF MPV 7 lend it a distinct and contemporary MPV silhouette.

• Signature V-shaped LED light

• Dual-function DRL with LED turn indicators

• 48.26 cm (19”) black alloy wheels

• Sporty cladding all-around

• Large window area for all-around visibility

• Chrome window beltline

• Integrated rear spoiler

• Shark fin antenna

• Rear washer, wiper and defogger

Minimalist Upmarket Interiors: The interiors of the VF MPV 7 are simple and minimalist yet offer a choice of a sporty all black interior theme or a premium dual tone black and brown interior theme.

• Tilt and telescopic D-cut leatherette wrapped multi-function steering wheel

• Leatherette seat upholstery

• Leatherette inserts in doors and armrests

• Adjustable headrests for all seats

• All three-point seat belts, with pretensioners in the front row

• Bezel-less day/night IRVM

• Large storage under front armrest

• Utility space under central console

• Chrome lined front cup holders

Configurable Flexible 7-Seat Configuration: The VF MPV 7 adapts to the modern urban lifestyle needs of Indian customers.

• Practical three-row theatre-style seating

• Truly spacious third row, usable even for average Indian adults

• Seat cushioning that offers the right balance of firmness and softness

• 6-way adjustable driver seat

• Second row seats with slide, recline and 60:40 split and ISOFIX

• Third row seats with recline and 50:50 split

• Boot space of 126 L with all seats up, expandable up to 1,240 L

Infotainment and Connectivity:

• Free-standing 25.65 cm (10.1”) infotainment screen

• Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity

• Speakers in all doors

• Connected car technology

• Type A and Type C USB ports

• 12 V port in first row and boot

Comfort and Convenience:

• Electronic Parking Brake with Auto Hold

• Auto-fold body-coloured ORVM with LED turn signal

• Passive keyless entry

• Brake pedal integrated starter (No push button needed)

• All windows auto up/down with anti-pinch

• Automatic HVAC with PM 2.5 air filter

• Dedicated AC controls for third row with ergonomically positioned air vents

• Cup holders in third row

• ViVi virtual assistant

• Camp mode that keeps the lights, HVAC, and infotainment systems on

Performance: Akin to the versatile use of the VF MPV 7, the car is equipped with a powertrain that delivers best-in-class peak output of 150 kW, yet the power delivery is such that even new drivers will be at ease.

• 60.13 kWh usable battery capacity

• 517 km ARAI certified range

• 10% to 70% fast charge in 30 minutes

• DC charging of up to 80 kW

• 150 kW peak power, 280 Nm peak torque

• 0 to 100 km/h in under 9 seconds

• 140 km/h top speed

• Multiple Drive and Regenerative Braking Modes

• Creep Mode

Safety Pack:

• ABS, EBD, BA

• ESC, TCS

• 4 Airbags

• Hill Start Assist

• Roll Over Mitigation

• Emergency Signal System

• All Disc Brakes

• Integrated Dynamic Brakes

Exterior Colours:

The VF MPV 7 joins the VF 6 and the VF 7 in VinFast India’s growing product lineup. Locally assembled at VinFast’s factory in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, the vehicles are produced in India, for India.

Alongside expanding its product range, VinFast is also accelerating the development of its retail and service network across India. After reaching 35 showrooms by the end of 2025 and recently inaugurating its 50th facility, the company aims to expand its network to 75 showrooms nationwide by the end of 2026, with a focus on growing beyond major metros into cities and towns across the country.

On the service side, VinFast has partnered with various brands and established service partners to set up Extended Service Workshops nationwide. These workshops operate alongside the VinFast dealership network and ensure that wherever customers are, support is close by. By the end of 2026, the number of workshops will reach more than 230 across India.

In parallel, VinFast is rolling out a range of initiatives, including extending its free EV charging programme across the V-Green network through March 31, 2029 for all customers; introducing the “Trade Gas For Electric” programme with attractive incentives, financing packages and flexible loan options; and implementing a Value Assured buyback programme of up to 75% to help safeguard long-term asset value. These efforts are designed to support consumers in transitioning to electric mobility, contributing to the acceleration of transport electrification and India’s emission reduction goals.

About VinFast

VinFast (NASDAQ: VFS), a subsidiary of Vingroup JSC, one of Vietnam’s largest conglomerates, is a pure-play electric vehicle manufacturer with the mission of making electric mobility more accessible to everyone. VinFast’s current product portfolio includes a wide range of electric SUVs, electric motorcycles, electric bicycles, and electric buses.

VinFast is entering its next phase of growth by rapidly expanding its global distribution and dealer network while strengthening manufacturing capabilities, with a focus on key markets in North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.

Learn more at: vinfastauto.in  

Thanks to its ecosystem-led logic, VinFast has been the number one brand in Vietnam for over a year
 

There was a point in time when electric vehicles weren’t just a relative novelty, but were actually a preferred choice, at least in the U.S., where they first gained traction. Even back in the 1990s, people were already aware of the benefits of EVs, being quieter, easier to operate, and well-suited for city trips.
 

That momentum did not last. Oil became abundant and inexpensive. Fuel stations spread rapidly, stitching together cities and highways into a seamless network. Electricity infrastructure, by contrast, remained uneven and limited in reach. Without reliable ways to recharge, electric vehicles slowly slipped out of daily use, replaced by engines that could refuel almost anywhere. For decades, the balance tipped decisively in favor of gasoline.
 

What this historical tidbit shows is that EVs didn’t lose because they were inferior, but because the system around them never fully materialized. The companies pushing electrification today are working with that lesson in mind, building not only vehicles but the conditions that allow them to function at scale.
 

Vietnam offers a clear before-and-after view of this shift. Not long ago, electric vehicles were rare enough to draw attention. Conversations with drivers often circled back to the same concerns, how far the car could go, and where it could be charged. For most people, home charging was the only realistic option, which excluded a large share of urban dwellers living in older buildings or dense inner-city neighborhoods.
 

Fast forward to the current day, and almost everywhere you go, you will see EVs big and small, four-wheel and two-wheel, blending in with the local traffic landscape. It may very well be that we are witnessing something akin to a second golden age of EVs, now taking shape in Vietnam.
 

And it’s not an overstatement to say that much of that renaissance owes itself to VinFast, the country’s first and leading domestic EV manufacturer. Many, if not the majority, of EVs currently running on Vietnamese roads are made by them. Days before the end of March, they set a new record with more than 3,520 orders completed in a single day, equivalent to the monthly sales of some internal combustion engine automakers in the country.
 

The foundation of that success is not laid overnight but over several years of intensive effort.
 

The one brand that builds it all

To understand VinFast, it helps to go through a little bit about its history. VinFast was founded in 2017 with the backing of billionaire founder Phạm Nhật Vượng, the richest man in Southeast Asia as of early April. To Vuong, whose view of national rise matters deeply, VinFast is not just a financial project but “a devotion project”.
 

And VinFast, true to its name, was fast. In just a few years from its conception, it has, in quick succession, launched a wide range of vehicles. From compact city cars to larger SUVs, from personal vehicles to fleet-focused models, the range now spans multiple segments, all in just under nine years. More recently, that portfolio has been structured into three distinct lines, the VF series for personal users, the Green lineup for transport services, and the Lạc Hồng line at the top end.
 

“There’s always something that fits you at your price range. If not for me, then for someone in the family,” said a VinFast sales rep in Hanoi.
 

But once again, the variety of products is not the only thing that VinFast focuses on to sell EVs, not if it wanted to avoid the same mistake of the EV OEMs of the past. Through a partnership with V-Green, a global charging provider that shares the same founder with VinFast, the young company is developing a charging network planned to reach around 150,000 ports nationwide, with an additional 99 superchargers in planning. Now Vietnam has one of the most extensive charging networks in the world, with one charging station every around 3.5 km in urban areas and about 65 km along highways, making it even denser than the US federal guideline of one every 80 km. Chargers appear in apartment basements, shopping centers, roadside stops, even residential compounds.
 

Once the charging network is dense enough, it’s only natural for drivers to realize they can top up their electric vehicle at a far better rate than their gasoline bill, a fact driven home further by the free charging policy offered at V-Green stations until March 2029. For some households, that translated into savings of several hundred dollars a year, a non-insignificant amount that can turn into a new financial cushion for the family.
 

“Honestly, I stopped thinking about fuel,” said a ride-hailing driver waiting at a charging point in Hanoi. “Now I think about how many trips I can take instead.”
 

So charging is covered. What about when your EV breaks down (which actually happens less for EVs than ICE vehicles, according to a recent report by a university in Vietnam, aligning with global trends)?
 

For that, as of November 2025, VinFast has 350 service centers covering the whole country, giving the company one of the largest aftersales networks nationwide. You would think that number is already sufficient, but not quite. The company aims to expand to 400 service workshops nationwide by the end of the year, to meet the rising demand for EV maintenance and repair.
 

Combined with the charging infrastructure, everything seems to close the loop. Drivers know where to charge, where to fix, and how much it will cost. Around this core, additional pieces have been added. VinFast vehicles often come with segment-leading warranties, up to 10 years/200,000 km. Ride-hailing through an all-electric platform, public buses running on battery power, driver-training programs designed specifically for EVs, even battery swapping networks for two-wheelers. Each element reduces friction for a different group of users, from daily commuters to commercial operators. All of them make electric mobility feel less like a transition and more like a normal, desirable part of daily life for consumers.
 

Exporting the model

Thanks to its ecosystem-led logic and a lot of elbow grease, VinFast has been the number one brand in Vietnam for over a year—not the top EV brand, but the top car brand overall. And it’s now looking to other markets for growth. It’s exporting the same model, with India as the most visible test case.
 

The anchor sits in Tamil Nadu, where VinFast’s four hundred-acre facility, with potential for further expansion, has begun churning out the VF 6 and VF 7 for Indian users. Phase one capacity stands at fifty thousand vehicles annually, with room to expand threefold.
 

The same type of network that helped VinFast address the concerns of early Vietnamese consumers is now being built in parallel across India. 51 dealerships have already opened, stretching from northern cities like Delhi and Gurugram to southern hubs such as Chennai and Bengaluru. The number is set to rise steadily, with the goal of reaching 75 by the end of the year.
 

Supporting this footprint is a web of partnerships that is unusually explicit in its structure. Charging infrastructure is being rolled out through V-Green, which has already begun deploying stations across dealerships, workshops, and third-party locations, alongside discussions with fuel retailers such as HPCL to integrate EV charging into existing petrol station networks. Maintenance and workshop coverage are handled through a combination of in-house dealer facilities and third-party service providers, most notably myTVS, which brings an established nationwide service backbone. Roadside assistance is supported by Global Assure, enabling 24/7 emergency response and towing coverage across major corridors.
 

Financing, often the final hurdle, has been addressed with equal specificity. VinFast has signed agreements with multiple banks, including YES BANK, HDFC Bank, Axis Bank, the State Bank of India, and the Central Bank of India. These partnerships are structured to cover both sides of the market. On the dealer side, they provide inventory financing to help partners scale operations without heavy upfront capital. On the customer side, they enable full on-road financing, flexible repayment tenures, and preferential interest rates, often with in-showroom loan processing to reduce friction at the point of purchase.
 

All of these form the foundation for the brand to expands its product portfolio. Alongside the premium and award-winning VF 6 and VF 7, the upcoming VF MPV 7 targets family buyers with a focus on space and practicality rather than excessive features. And it seems like VinFast also plans to introduce electric two-wheelers and buses. Each addition is meant to reinforce the others, creating a system rather than a collection of products.
 

The era of EV in Vietnam may well be in its golden age, while such an era in India is only beginning. But with ecosystem-thinking companies like VinFast, both appear determined to avoid the same fate that once held EVs back. Not by moving faster, but by building more completely.

Cars24 collaborates with Tesla India to simplify India’s transition to electric mobility

For many customers, switching to electric has traditionally meant managing two separate journeys, selling an existing vehicle and purchasing a new one. This programme brings both steps together into a single, streamlined experience, eliminating friction and simplifying the overall transition.

Available for a limited period, the programme offers an exchange bonus of Rs. 3 lakh from Tesla on petrol and diesel vehicles, along with an additional Rs. 25,000 exchange bonus from Cars24 upon successful completion of a Tesla purchase, taking the total benefit of switching from ICE car to EV to Rs. 3.25 lakh.

The journey begins at Tesla Experience Centers, where customers exploring a Tesla Model Y can initiate the exchange process as part of their purchase journey.

Customers can initiate the exchange journey on Cars24 website, app, or at Tesla Center by entering their vehicle details; they can receive an initial price estimate and schedule a doorstep inspection at their convenience.

Following the inspection, Cars24 provides a transparent price quote directly to the customer, with no obligation to proceed. Customers retain complete flexibility to accept or decline the offer.

If the customer chooses to move forward, Cars24 manages the entire process end-to-end, including vehicle pickup, direct payment to the customer’s bank account, and ownership transfer, ensuring a completely hassle-free experience without paperwork or logistical challenges.

To further support customers in making the switch, Tesla is also offering financing options starting with a down payment of Rs. 6 lakh and EMIs from Rs. 49,000 per month, making the Tesla Model Y more accessible to a wider set of buyers. The Model Y also supports convenient home charging, enabling simple and efficient everyday usage.

In addition to environmental benefits, electric vehicles offer significantly lower running and maintenance costs compared to conventional cars, making the switch both practical and economical for customers.

As part of the programme, customers who complete their Tesla purchase are eligible for the additional Rs. 25,000 Cars24 bonus, which is credited directly to their bank account upon delivery of their new Tesla.

Cars24 brings its digital-first platform and nationwide reach to the partnership, enabling seamless price discovery, instant payments, and hassle-free ownership transfers for customers across India.

Gajendra Jangid, Co-founder and CMO, CARS24, said, “At Cars24, our focus has always been on simplifying car transactions. Partnering Collaborating with Tesla allows us to extend that convenience to customers transitioning to electric vehicles, managing everything from price discovery to payment and ownership transfer.”

About Cars24
Since its inception in 2015, Cars24 has been on a mission to simplify car ownership for everyone. Offering services such as buying, selling, loans, insurance, servicing, and more, Cars24 is building an integrated automotive platform for Indian consumers. Through Cars24 Financial Services, the company also provides vehicle lending solutions.

For media inquiries, please contact: raghav.dua@cars24.com

VinFast has created a stir in its home market after announcing that it completed 3,520 electric vehicle orders in a single day on March 28, marking a new record for daily order processing in Vietnam

Once again, VinFast has created a stir in its home market after announcing that it completed 3,520 electric vehicle orders in a single day on March 28, marking a new record for daily order processing in Vietnam. This figure is equivalent to the monthly sales of some automakers in the country and translates to an average of 146 orders per hour, or approximately 2.4 orders per minute.

According to the company, these vehicles have been fully processed and are ready to leave the factory. They will then be transported to dealerships before being delivered to customers.

Across online forums and user communities, many expressed surprise at the company’s speed. “Completing more than 3,500 orders in a single day, especially on a weekend, shows the very strong capabilities of VinFast’s production and business teams,” an online user, Pham Van Minh, shared.

Another user, Hong Lan, said the record reflects significant demand for switching to electric vehicles. With fuel prices fluctuating daily, she noted that it is understandable that many gasoline vehicle users are considering switching. “Electric vehicles are cleaner, environmentally friendly, and free from dependence on fuel prices, so the growing shift toward them is an inevitable trend,” she said.

Record after record

Observers believe that with its current advantages, VinFast is highly likely to set other sales records in 2026. Over the past two years, the company has consistently recorded strong sales milestones in the Vietnamese market.

Since 2024, VinFast has maintained the number one position in Vietnam’s automotive market. In 2025, the company delivered 175,099 vehicles. In December of 2025 alone, VinFast sold 27,649 vehicles, setting a record for monthly sales by a single automaker. Notably, this figure equals the annual sales volume that some brands take a full year to achieve.

Experts say the company’s continued achievements are the result of a long-term investment strategy in a comprehensive green ecosystem. Currently, 150,000 charging ports developed and operated by V-Green, VinFast’s global charging infrastructure partner, have been planned across Vietnam’s 34 provinces and cities. The company is also preparing to deploy 99 ultra fast charging hubs equipped with 150 kW chargers along major national and provincial highways, further strengthening its charging network advantage. At the same time, a network of more than 400 service workshops ensures a seamless and well-supported ownership experience for customers.

According to Dr. Lee Hoang Nam, a transportation planning expert, VinFast’s continued record-breaking performance is expected, alongside its proven product quality, as more Vietnamese consumers prioritize electric vehicles as their primary choice.

“When the entire ecosystem, from products to charging infrastructure and service workshops, is systematically developed as VinFast is doing, consumers will feel more confident about making the switch to electric vehicles. The green transition not only benefits individual households and users, but also helps accelerate transport electrification, reduce emissions, and importantly lessen dependence on fossil fuels such as gasoline and diesel,” the expert explained.

So you’ve decided to go electric, and VinFast has caught your eye. The brand is new, the designs are hard to miss, and increasing sightings on Indian roads hint at growing curiosity. For now, the choice is straightforward: the compact B-SUV VF 6 or the larger, more assertive C-SUV VF 7.

The “New Entrant Of The Year” VinFast brings two solid EV SUVs to India, each with a different focus

Both share the same foundation, but they diverge in ways that become clear once you start living with the car.

Exterior design and dimension
The VF 6 is the quieter one visually. Guided by the “Duality in Nature” philosophy developed by the Italian design house Torino Design, it follows a clean, balanced, and human-centric approach. Its rounded, coupe-like silhouette feels fluid and approachable, with proportions that suit dense urban environments. The design balances opposing elements such as softness and strength, creating a harmonious blend of nature-inspired aesthetics and modern technology tailored for young, active families.

The VF 7, by contrast, takes a bolder and more expressive direction. Also developed with Torino Design under the “Asymmetric Aerospace” language, it features sharper, more angular lines and sculpted surfaces that give it a stronger visual presence. The wide stance and details like hidden door handles create a sense of motion even when stationary, while larger 19 to 20-inch wheels further enhance its road presence.

Conclusion: The VF 6 suits those who prefer a clean, friendly design. The VF 7 is better for drivers who want something more distinctive and expressive.

Performance

The difference in performance is immediately noticeable. The VF 7 operates in a higher performance bracket, with significantly more power and nearly double the torque. This translates into quicker overtakes, more confident highway merging, and a stronger sense of acceleration.

The VF 6 is tuned for everyday usability. Its 150 kW output is more than sufficient for city commutes, school runs, and weekend trips. Instead of chasing outright performance, it prioritises smoothness and efficiency, making it easier to live with on a daily basis.

Conclusion: The VF 7 is clearly the more powerful option, suited to drivers who enjoy a more engaging driving experience. The VF 6 remains more than capable for urban use, with better efficiency and cost optimisation.

Technology features
Both models embrace the idea of a software-driven vehicle, and that is evident throughout the cabin.

A 12.9-inch driver-oriented infotainment screen anchors both interiors. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, along with over-the-air updates that continuously refine features over time.

Aside from the Earth trim, both the VF 6 and VF 7 come standard with a solid ADAS suite, including features such as blind spot detection, adaptive cruise control, lane centering, lane change assist, and enhanced collision warning functions. This level of technology becomes more apparent on longer drives, particularly on highways where the system can take on more of the workload.

Interior design
Inside, the VF 6 takes a clean, functional approach that prioritises comfort and usability. The cabin is built around simplicity, with vegan leather upholstery and a dual-tone layout that feels light and approachable. Surfaces are soft where it matters, and the overall design avoids clutter, making it easy to settle in and operate. The flat floor and well-proportioned cabin help create an open, airy feel, while the seating layout is clearly optimised for everyday family use. The boot is also practical enough for daily errands and weekend trips.

This makes the VF 6 especially suitable for young families who need comfort, usability, and flexibility in a compact SUV.

The VF 7 shifts the focus toward a more premium and individual experience. The cabin feels wider, materials are more refined, and the layout leans slightly toward the driver. It is less about maximising space for everyone and more about creating a personal, high-quality environment. This positioning makes the VF 7 a better fit for independent, tech-oriented drivers who value design, materials, and a more driver-focused cabin.

Conclusion: Choose the VF 6 if you prioritise family comfort and practicality. Choose the VF 7 if you prefer a more premium, driver-oriented interior, with more refined touchpoints throughout the cabin.

Safety
Safety is another area where both models remain closely aligned.

Both the VF 6 and VF 7 have achieved 5-star Bharat NCAP ratings, indicating strong crash protection and structural integrity. The VF 6 comes equipped with seven airbags and a full suite of stability and braking systems.

The VF 7 builds on this with more advanced driver assistance features, particularly for highway driving. It also performs strongly in both adult and child occupant protection tests, reinforcing its positioning as a well-rounded family SUV with additional safety support.

Nice-to-have features
Beyond the core specs and headline features, both models include a range of smaller touches that shape the day-to-day ownership experience. These are the details you may not notice in a showroom, but will appreciate over time.

On the VF 6, many of these features are clearly designed around convenience and family use. Special drive modes such as Pet, Camp, Wash, and Valet add flexibility across different situations. The air ioniser with PM1.0 filter improves cabin air quality, which is particularly useful in urban environments. Practical touches like all-window one-touch up and down with anti-pinch, rain-sensing wipers, and a generous boot space reinforce its everyday usability. Even small elements such as power-adjustable, heated mirrors with reverse link make city driving and parking less stressful.

The VF 7, meanwhile, builds on this by making several comfort-oriented features more widely available across trims, such as ventilated seats, dual-zone climate control, and a more refined ambient experience. These additions give the VF 7 a more polished, high-end character.

Conclusion: The VF 6 focuses its “nice-to-haves” on practicality and ease of use, while the VF 7 elevates the experience through added comfort and refinement rather than entirely new features.

Policies and incentives
Beyond the vehicles themselves, VinFast is working to reduce the friction of switching to electric.

The company is building a broader ecosystem in India, including local manufacturing in Tamil Nadu, expanding charging infrastructure, and strengthening after-sales support. The goal is to make ownership predictable and convenient.

Customer incentives reflect this approach. Free charging on the V-Green network runs until March 31, 2029, helping eliminate fuel costs for an extended period. There is also a Value Assured programme that addresses resale concerns, along with roadside assistance, three years of free maintenance, and warranty coverage of up to ten years or 200,000 kilometres depending on the model.

For buyers transitioning from petrol vehicles, the “Trade Gas for Electric” initiative, introduced by Vingroup, adds an additional financial incentive, including a limited-time 3% discount until March 31, 2026.

So, which one should you pick?
The choice ultimately comes down to how you drive and what matters most in your daily routine.

If you are a young family looking for an electric SUV that is easy to use, efficient, and practical for daily routines such as commuting, school runs, and weekend outings, the VF 6 might be the more natural choice

If you are a more independent driver who values performance, distinctive design, and a stronger sense of driving engagement, the VF 7 is likely to feel more rewarding.

About VinFast
VinFast (NASDAQ: VFS), a subsidiary of Vingroup JSC, one of Vietnam's largest conglomerates, is a pure-play electric vehicle manufacturer with the mission of making EVs accessible to everyone. VinFast's product lineup includes a wide range of electric SUVs, e-scooters, and e-buses. The company is rapidly expanding its global distribution network and manufacturing capabilities with facilities in Vietnam, India, and planned operations in the United States.

The company's Thoothukudi facility in Tamil Nadu represents a $500 million investment and will produce 150,000 vehicles annually when fully operational, creating approximately 3,500 direct jobs.

Learn more at: www.vinfastauto.in.

Tapan Ghosh (right) and Raaj Sekar, Dealer Principal of PPS Motors LLP, at the grand opening ceremony

The newly inaugurated VinFast showroom, developed by dealer group PPS Motors LLP under the leadership of Mr. Raaj Sekar, is strategically located on Hosur Road in the Electronic City area of Bengaluru. Built in accordance with VinFast’s global retail standards, the facility spans over 11,500 sq ft, seamlessly integrating both showroom and service areas. 

At its core is a 2,500 sq ft showroom, designed with a modern and premium aesthetic to deliver a vivid and immersive brand experience. Here, VinFast’s dedicated teams ensure seamless customer engagement across sales and after-sales services. 

As part of its ambitious roadmap, VinFast aims to establish 75 dealerships by the end of the year across more than 60 cities in India. This expansion strategy will not only focus on metro cities and major urban hubs but also extend to emerging markets, reinforcing the company’s commitment to making premium electric mobility accessible across the country. 

Mr. Tapan Ghosh, CEO of VinFast India, said, “We have attained a key milestone with 50 showrooms established nationwide, reflecting our accelerated expansion and resolute commitment to strengthening our brand presence across the country. The opening of our flagship 3S facility in Bengaluru builds on this progress, delivering integrated excellence in sales, service, and spare parts to meet customer needs effectively. This rapid growth underscores VinFast’s pivotal role in advancing India’s electric vehicle ecosystem." 

As it accelerates operations in India, VinFast is building a comprehensive EV ecosystem across manufacturing, retail, charging infrastructure, after-sales services, and a circular battery value chain, in collaboration with banks and partners, to deliver a seamless ownership experience and advance green mobility. Its premium electric SUVs, the VF 6 and VF 7, have secured 5-star Bharat NCAP safety ratings, meeting the highest safety standards in India, and are supported by roadside assistance and three years of free maintenance, with industry-leading warranty coverage of up to ten years or 200,000 kilometres depending on the model. 

VinFast is driving EV adoption through customer-focused initiatives that lower barriers and strengthen ownership confidence. Its Value Assured programme addresses resale concerns by offering customers a predefined return value after several years of use. This is complemented by extended free charging on the V-Green network until March 31, 2029, providing up to three years of zero-fuel-cost benefits. Vingroup, VinFast’s parent company, is also introducing the “Trade Gas for Electric” initiative, offering an additional 3% discount until March 31, 2026, to encourage the shift from internal combustion vehicles to electric mobility. 

About VinFast
VinFast (NASDAQ: VFS), a subsidiary of Vingroup JSC, one of Vietnam’s largest conglomerates, is a pure-play electric vehicle manufacturer with the mission of making electric mobility more accessible to everyone. VinFast’s current product portfolio includes a wide range of electric SUVs, electric motorcycles, electric bicycles, and electric buses. 

VinFast is entering its next phase of growth by rapidly expanding its global distribution and dealer network while strengthening manufacturing capabilities, with a focus on key markets in North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. 

Learn more at: vinfastauto.in

Mr. Tapan Ghosh (left), CEO of VinFast India, and Mr. Narendra Dixit, Head of Retail Banking at CSB Bank, at the signing ceremony

Under the partnership, customers will benefit from a range of retail financing solutions, including up to 100% on-road funding, attractive interest rates, flexible repayment options, and a seamless loan approval and disbursement process across VinFast’s entire product portfolio. Dedicated CSB Bank relationship managers will also provide on-site support at dealerships, ensuring a smooth and convenient financing experience and making EV ownership more accessible for customers.

The collaboration will also enable VinFast to leverage CSB Bank’s strong pan-India presence and expanding branch network to extend EV financing solutions across diverse markets. With its growing national footprint and focus on offering customized financial solutions, CSB Bank aims to support the wider adoption of electric mobility by enabling easier access to financing for customers across the country.

The MOU was signed by Mr. Tapan Ghosh, CEO of VinFast India, along with Mr. Narendra Dixit, Head Retail Banking at CSB Bank.

Mr. Tapan Ghosh, CEO of VinFast India, said, “Our partnership with CSB Bank is a natural extension of our approach in India, where accessibility and affordability are critical to scaling EV adoption. In markets like India, the transition to electric mobility depends not only on the product, but also on how simple and practical ownership is for customers. Through this collaboration, we aim to offer flexible financing solutions that reduce entry barriers, while continuing to build a reliable and well-rounded ecosystem. It is one of several steps we are taking to ensure a consistent, dependable, and customer-focused EV experience in the country.”

Commenting on the collaboration, Mr. Narendra Dixit, Head Retail Banking, CSB Bank, said, “Electric mobility is no longer a future concept; it is rapidly becoming a mainstream choice for customers and businesses alike. As adoption accelerates, there is a growing need for accessible financing solutions that enable both customers and dealers to participate in this transformation. The Special partnership with VinFast is a step forward in that direction. By combining VinFast’s strong product vision in the EV space with CSB Bank’s financing capabilities, we aim to create a robust ecosystem that supports both retail auto buyer solutions and dealer network through tailored auto loans and inventory financing solutions.”

VinFast continues to strengthen its comprehensive EV ecosystem in the Indian market, with an assembly plant in Tamil Nadu, a nationwide network of world-class showrooms, expected to double this year, an expanding after-sales service system, and growing partnerships with financial institutions to enhance EV accessibility for customers.

The company has introduced two premium electric SUVs, VF 6 and VF 7, both of which have achieved 5-star Bharat NCAP safety ratings, and plans to launch additional models in 2026 to meet the diverse green mobility needs of consumers.

In parallel, VinFast is rolling out a range of initiatives aimed at reducing financial and psychological barriers for customers, including the assured resale value program and transparent buyback schemes. Recently, the company extended its free charging program across the V-Green charging network until March 31, 2029. The “Trade Gas for Electric” program is also being implemented in India, Vietnam, Indonesia, and the Philippines from March 11 to March 31, 2026, offering additional incentives of 3% for VinFast electric cars and 5% for VinFast electric two-wheelers for customers switching from gasoline-powered vehicles.

About VinFast

VinFast (NASDAQ: VFS), a subsidiary of Vingroup JSC, one of Vietnam’s largest conglomerates, is a pure-play electric vehicle manufacturer with the mission of making electric mobility more accessible to everyone. VinFast’s current product portfolio includes a wide range of electric SUVs, electric motorcycles, electric bicycles, and electric buses.

VinFast is entering its next phase of growth by rapidly expanding its global distribution and dealer network while strengthening manufacturing capabilities, with a focus on key markets in North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.

Learn more at: www.vinfastauto.in.

About CSB Bank Limited

CSB BANK is one of the oldest private sector banks in India with an existence of over 100 years. Bank has a strong base in Kerala along with significant presence in Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. CSB Bank offers a wide range of products and services to customers, with particular focus on SME, Retail, and NRI customers. CSB Bank delivers its services through multiple channels, including 855 branches and 826 ATMs/CRMs across the country, as well as alternate digital channels such as debit cards, internet banking, mobile banking, point-of-sale services, and UPI. CSB Bank is listed on both NSE and BSE.

Learn more at: www.csb.bank.in.

BYD India, a subsidiary of BYD and the world’s No. 1 NEV (New Energy Vehicle) manufacturer, today announced the inauguration of its 48th showroom in India and sixth showroom in Delhi NCR, located in Moti Nagar. The new facility, the largest BYD showroom in India, has been launched in partnership with PPS Motors Pvt. Ltd., marking the sixth BYD showroom operated by PPS Motors apart from four service workshops in 3 states in India and further strengthening the brand’s retail presence in the region.
 

Rajeev Chauhan, Head of Electric Passenger Vehicles Business, BYD India and Rajiv Sanghvi, Managing Director, PPS Motors Pvt. Ltd.

The newly inaugurated outlet reinforces BYD India’s expanding presence in Delhi NCR, one of the country’s fastest-growing and most dynamic electric vehicle markets. The expansion reflects the brand’s commitment to making advanced electric mobility solutions more accessible to customers in the region.
 

Spanning 9,000 sq. ft., the Moti Nagar facility is designed to provide customers with an expansive and immersive retail experience. The showroom will display BYD’s advanced electric passenger vehicles while enabling customers to explore the brand’s cutting-edge technology, design philosophy, and sustainable mobility innovations.
 

Mr. Rajeev Chauhan, Head of Electric Passenger Vehicles Business, BYD India said, “The inauguration of our 48th showroom in India and sixth showroom in Delhi NCR with PPS BYD in Moti Nagar represents another important milestone in strengthening BYD India’s retail footprint. Delhi NCR continues to be one of the most dynamic EV markets in the country, supported by increasing consumer awareness and adoption of sustainable mobility solutions. Together with our valued partner PPS Motors, we look forward to bringing BYD’s advanced electric vehicles closer to customers in the region and contributing to India’s transition towards cleaner transportation.”
 

Mr. Rajiv Sanghvi, Managing Director, PPS Motors Pvt. Ltd. said, “We are proud to further strengthen our partnership with BYD through the inauguration of India’s largest showroom marking an important milestone in our strategic expansion in Northern India. Being the largest spread sales and after-sales partners of BYD with 10 touch points in India, this reflects our shared commitment to accelerating the adoption of sustainable electric mobility solutions. Backed by BYD’s technologically advanced products, customer-centric approach coupled with our deep understanding of the customer needs we endeavour to provide a premium and seamless ownership experience for our customers in the Delhi region.”
 

With the addition of this showroom, BYD India’s national electric passenger vehicle dealership network has expanded to 48 showrooms across 40 cities with 18 dealer partners, reflecting the company’s continued efforts to strengthen accessibility and support the growing adoption of electric mobility across India. The BYD portfolio in India embodies the company’s commitment to innovation, performance, and environmental responsibility. The current lineup includes the BYD SEALION 7, BYD SEAL premium sedan, BYD ATTO 3 eSUV, and the BYD eMAX 7 eMPV, offering customers a diverse range of advanced electric mobility solutions.

Through its range of premium electric passenger vehicles and cutting-edge battery technology, the company continues to drive India’s transition toward clean transportation. Globally, BYD has sold over 15 million NEVs, contributing to the reduction of more than 129.2 billion kilograms of CO₂ emissions as of January 31, 2026, equivalent to what nearly 2.14 billion trees would absorb. BYD’s consistent ranking among the Top 10 Most Valuable Global Automotive Brands by Kantar BrandZ, along with its #91 position in the 2025 Fortune Global 500 with a brand value of USD 14.4 billion, reflects its growing leadership in the global EV market.

As BYD India continues to expand its network, the company remains focused on accelerating EV adoption, strengthening its customer ecosystem, and supporting India’s broader transition toward sustainable mobility.

About BYD India

BYD India was established in March 2007 in Chennai, India, with an office in New Delhi. The Indian subsidiary has two factories, covering more than 140,000 sq. m, with an investment exceeding $200 million. BYD India provides customers with product solutions and related after-sales services. The global No.1 in the NEV sector, BYD continues to redefine the landscape of sustainable transportation in its mission towards ‘Technological innovations for a better life’. In 2025, the company sold over 4.60 Million New Energy Vehicles worldwide. More information about the company can be found at www.bydautoindia.com

About PPS Motors

PPS Motors is part of a larger automobile group - one of the country's largest spread automobile retail conglomerates - with rich experience of 75+ years, operates through 720+ automobile touchpoints across 19 states supported by a dedicated team of over 18,000 expert professionals. PPS Motors provides exceptional service and upholds high standards of professionalism. The conglomerate represents a diverse spectrum of auto segments, including 16 brands in passenger vehicles, light and heavy commercial vehicles, and construction equipment. More information about the company can be found at www.ppsmotors.com.

MATTER, India’s technology-driven electric mobility company, and Iontra Inc, the industry leader in real-time battery sensing and charge control solution,  today announced their partnership to integrate Iontra’s battery intelligence and adaptive charging technology as one of the core layers of Matter’s AI-Defined Vehicle (AIDV) platform, marking a first-of-its-kind initiative from India towards AI-governed energy systems in mobility.

Matter partners with Iontra  Inc to integrate Iontra’s battery intelligence and adaptive charging technology as one of the core layers of Matter’s AI-Defined Vehicle (AIDV) platform

With battery intelligence embedded at the core of its vehicle architecture: Battery health is measured in real time, not inferred

• Charging dynamically adapts to actual cell condition

• Thermal stress and degradation are actively managed

• Safety margins expand without compromising performance

• Battery life and consistency improve across the vehicle lifecycle

This milestone builds on MATTER’s already state-of-the-art battery safety and control systems delivered through its Software-Defined Vehicle (SDV) platform, including AERA. With the addition of adaptive, health-aware intelligence, MATTER is now advancing battery systems beyond predefined software logic toward AI-defined energy behaviour.

From Software-Defined Battery Safety to AI-Defined Energy Intelligence

Traditional electric vehicles rely on static battery assumptions and fixed charging profiles. MATTER’s SDV platform has already established a strong baseline for battery protection, monitoring, and safety under real-world conditions through robust, real-time data systems. The integration of Iontra’s technology elevates the platform further, introducing adaptive, predictive intelligence into how batteries behave, age, and protect themselves.

This shift enables MATTER to move from reactive protection toward self-optimising energy architectures, designed to scale as vehicle performance, charging speeds, and system complexity increase.

Battery Intelligence as a Pillar of AIDV

As part of MATTER’s AIDV architecture unveiled at Technology Day 3.0, batteries evolve from passive energy storage units into intelligent, self-aware systems that continuously sense their condition, adapt to real-world usage, and optimise performance over time.  Within MATTER’s AIDV framework, intelligence governs materials, propulsion, thermal systems, and energy as a single, adaptive system. Battery intelligence plays a central role by informing how energy is charged, discharged, protected, and evolved over time. Iontra’s real-time State of Health (SOH) sensing and adaptive charge-control capabilities form a foundational element of this transition.

By embedding Iontra’s intelligence at the edge, MATTER enables faster and safer charging without hardware changes, improves reliability under demanding Indian operating conditions, and reduces lifetime ownership costs through healthier, longer-lasting batteries, while laying the foundation for long-term AI-governed energy control.

“Our SDV architecture established a strong foundation for battery safety and performance,” said Kumar Prasad Tellikepalli, Founder and Group CTO, MATTER “Integrating Iontra’s sensing and adaptive charging capabilities allows energy systems to sense their true condition, adapt in real time, and evolve across the vehicle lifecycle, marking the transition from software-defined control to AI-defined energy behaviour.”

“Electric mobility will not be defined by electrification alone, it will be defined by intelligence. MATTER’s software-defined platforms already deliver industry-leading safety and control,” said Mohal Lalbhai, Founder and Group CEO, MATTER. “By integrating adaptive battery intelligence as a core layer of our AIDV architecture, we are advancing a first-of-its-kind initiative from India towards AI-governed energy systems in mobility.”

“Battery intelligence is essential to performance, safety, and trust in electric mobility. MATTER’s AIDV approach closely aligns with our belief that batteries must be health-aware and adaptive at the edge,” added Jeff Granato, Co-Founder and CEO, Iontra Inc “Together, we are enabling eMobility products that are safer, more reliable, and deliver consistent performance over their entire life.”

Completing the AIDV Energy Stack

The integration of Iontra’s battery intelligence strengthens MATTER’s AI-Defined Vehicle platform across the energy domain, complementing intelligent propulsion systems, thermal architectures, materials innovation, and domain-integrated control.

As MATTER advances structured validation and integration under this programme and expands its AIDV platform across multiple two-wheeler segments in the near future, battery intelligence will remain a central pillar in delivering scalable performance, safety, and lifecycle value.

For more information, please visit www.matter.in, www.iontra.com.

VinFast extends its free EV charging program for customers in India, Indonesia, and the Philippines through March 31, 2029

Under the new policy, all VinFast electric vehicle owners in India, Indonesia, and the Philippines will receive free charging at the V-Green-developed-and-operated charging network through March 31, 2029. The program will be extended broadly to all customers, including both existing owners and future buyers, covering private customers as well as those using their vehicles for transportation services, including drivers operating on the Green SM ride-hailing platform.

In addition, Vingroup, the parent company of VinFast, has also announced the “Trade Gas for Electric” program in India, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Vietnam. The program offers an additional 3% discount on VinFast electric cars and 5% on VinFast electric scooters for customers switching from old gasoline vehicles, applicable from March 11, 2026 to March 31, 2026. The program is implemented in parallel with and combined with other incentive programs available in each market, creating favorable conditions for customers to transition more quickly to electric vehicles, reduce dependence on gasoline, stabilize daily life, and contribute to building a cleaner and more modern living environment.

Besides VinFast customers, users of Green SM electric taxi services in Indonesia, Laos, and Vietnam will also receive a 10% discount through the “GreenForAll” program from March 11, 2026 to March 31, 2026.

Ms. Duong Thi Thu Trang, Deputy CEO of Global Sales, VinFast, stated, “VinFast’s initial free charging policy received strong support from consumers, both in Vietnam and in international markets where VinFast operates. Extending this policy for another three years is the next step in our strategy to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles. VinFast believes that when operating costs are optimized to nearly zero, consumers will have greater confidence and motivation to switch to green mobility, while also contributing to the greening of transportation systems in these countries.”

Alongside the free charging policy, the charging network developed and operated by V-Green is continuously expanding across the markets where VinFast operates. This expansion helps create favorable conditions for consumers to confidently transition to greener and more sustainable transportation.

In addition to the free charging incentive, VinFast is already implementing multiple policies to promote the green transition in key Asian markets. These include battery subscription program that lowers upfront investment cost, a resale value guarantee policy, flexible payment options, and market-leading warranty coverage.

With its rapidly expanding and increasingly comprehensive EV ecosystem, together with strong support policies, VinFast is accelerating the transition to electrified transportation in multiple countries, aiming to popularize electric vehicles and create a sustainable green future worldwide.

About VinFast
VinFast (NASDAQ: VFS), a subsidiary of Vingroup JSC, one of Vietnam's largest conglomerates, is a pure-play electric vehicle manufacturer with the mission of making EVs accessible to everyone. VinFast's product lineup includes a wide range of electric SUVs, e-scooters, and e-buses. The company is rapidly expanding its global distribution network and manufacturing capabilities with facilities in Vietnam, India, and planned operations in the United States.

The company's Thoothukudi facility in Tamil Nadu represents a $500 million investment and will produce 150,000 vehicles annually when fully operational, creating approximately 3,500 direct jobs.

Learn more at: www.vinfastauto.in.

Tapan Ghosh (third from the right), CEO of VinFast India, received the award from the organizers of the FASTER Awards 2026

As one of the industry’s most respected accolades, the FASTER Awards recognize outstanding achievements in vehicle performance, design, and technology, along with brand contributions to the green mobility transition in India. VinFast made a distinct impression through its strong commitment to the market, highlighted by the development of a modern manufacturing facility in Tamil Nadu, accompanied by a clear localization roadmap and a comprehensive electric vehicle ecosystem. These efforts have enabled the company to build solid trust with local consumers within a short period of market presence.

VinFast’s impact as a new entrant was also recognized in communications, with the company receiving the “Communications Team of the Year 2026” title at this year’s FASTER Awards. The organizers noted that VinFast implemented a structured and consistent communications strategy, helping the brand stand out in a highly competitive and discerning market such as India.

The double win at the FASTER Awards brings VinFast’s total number of awards in the Indian market to nearly 20, reflecting strong recognition from industry experts for both brand stature and product quality. Previously, VinFast was named “Investor of the Year” by Nanayam Vikatan magazine and received the “EV Manufacturer of the Year” title at the Jagran Hi-Tech Awards 2025. The VF 7 was honored as “Electric SUV of the Year” at the BBC TopGear India Awards 2026, while the VF 6 won “Value for Money Car of the Year” at the Autocar India Awards 2026.

Mr. Tapan Ghosh, CEO of VinFast India, said, “We are thrilled to receive the New Entrant of the Year at the FASTER Awards 2026. This recognition is deeply meaningful for VinFast because it reflects the philosophy behind our India strategy. It reflects our dedication to crafting electric vehicles that offer unmatched value, safety, and practicality for Indian families. More importantly, it strengthens our mission to contribute meaningfully to India’s transition towards sustainable mobility.”

Mr. Amit Chhangani, Chairman, FASTER Awards, added, “The FASTER New Entrant of the Year Award is not given for ambition. It is given for execution. Executing in India, a market that is geographically vast, culturally layered, and deeply loyal to its existing brands, is not for the faint-hearted. VinFast arrived with a manufacturing commitment, a localisation strategy, and the patience to build trust before demanding it. That is precisely what this award recognises.”

VinFast India continues to strengthen its product and market momentum in the Indian EV landscape. Since launching the VF 6 and VF 7 electric SUVs, both of which recently secured 5-star Bharat NCAP safety ratings, VinFast India has strengthened its market presence across key regions. Building on this foundation, VinFast has introduced programmes aimed at improving ownership experience, including assured resale and structured buyback options for VF 6 and VF 7 customers, and is rapidly growing its retail footprint through new showrooms and service partnerships nationwide.

About VinFast
VinFast (NASDAQ: VFS), a subsidiary of Vingroup JSC, one of Vietnam’s largest conglomerates, is a pure-play electric vehicle (“EV”) manufacturer with the mission of making EVs accessible to everyone. VinFast’s product lineup today includes a wide range of electric SUVs, e-scooters, and e-buses. 

VinFast is currently embarking on its next growth phase through rapid expansion of its distribution and dealership network globally and increasing its manufacturing capacities with a focus on key markets across North America, Europe, the Middle East and Asia.

Learn more at: vinfastauto.in

Delhi CM Rekha Gupta ( Center ), Tourism minister Kapil Mishra (Left) Mr Dheeraj Hinduja Chairman of Ashok Leyland (Right) in the presence of his wife Shalini Hinduja (Extreme Right)

The curated full-day route begins at Dilli Haat - INA at 9:00 a.m., guiding passengers on a thoughtfully planned journey through the heart of New Delhi. The tour begins at Vijay Chowk, with a photography stop at Rashtrapati Bhavan, followed by visits to the National Museum, the National Gallery of Modern Art, and the Pradhan Mantri Sangrahalaya. It concludes with an evening at the National War Memorial and India Gate, before returning to Dilli Haat - INA for shopping and dinner at 6:00 p.m.

Powering this experience is the SWITCH EiV 22 - India’s first electric double-decker AC bus - designed, developed, and manufactured in India, showcasing the deep engineering expertise and manufacturing legacy of Ashok Leyland. The bus is equipped with a 231 kWh NMC battery pack, offering a range of up to 250 kms, optimized seating for 65 passengers, and a lightweight aluminium body that delivers best-in-class comfort. The SWITCH EiV 22 stands as the world’s first standard-floor, air-conditioned, electric double-decker, featuring a wider rear door and staircase - a true testament to Indian engineering meeting global standards.

Mr. Dheeraj Hinduja, Chairman of Ashok Leyland said, “The double decker bus has always held a special place in India’s public transport story - it is an icon of belonging, of shared journeys, and of city life. Through this CSR initiative, we are proud to breathe new life into that legacy, right in the heart of our national capital. The ‘Dekho Meri Dilli’ experience is our way of giving back to the communities we serve - offering people a beautiful, emission-free way to rediscover Delhi’s magnificent heritage. At SWITCH Mobility, backed by Ashok Leyland’s strong mobility foundation, we are committed to advancing green mobility not just as a business proposition, but as a responsibility to society and the environment.”

Commenting on the initiative, Mr. Ganesh Mani CEO - SWITCH Mobility and COO - Ashok Leyland, said, “The Hinduja Group has always believed that progress must be purposeful - that growth and giving back must go hand in hand. We are not just offering a ride; we are offering a renewed connection to our history, our culture, and our shared pride as Indians - all while treading lightly on our planet. We are proud to see the SWITCH EiV 22 carry not just passengers, but the spirit of a greener, more purposeful India - one landmark, one journey at a time. SWITCH Mobility's electric-first vision, backed by the scale and strength of Ashok Leyland, makes moments like these possible - where innovation is not just future-ready, but people-ready.”

The SWITCH EiV 22 features a 650V architecture, dual-gun charging capability, and liquid-cooled battery technology, positioning it as a robust and future-ready solution for urban India. With bus components manufactured domestically to achieve FAME II compliance, the SWITCH EiV 22 is a testament to the ‘Make in India’ ethos applied to the future of clean mobility.

With 100 tourist hop-on hop-off buses electric double-deckers already serving cities such as Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Bhubaneswar, and Chennai, Vizag, Hyderabad, Kochi across India, SWITCH Mobility continues to drive the nation’s electric public transport revolution - one iconic journey at a time.

VinFast’s exchange programme is replacing ageing petrol cars with locally-assembled VF 6 and VF 7 SUVs backed by charging and service support

India’s electric transition is no longer a policy ambition tucked inside conference halls. It is visible in state budgets, in urban pilot projects, in the growing lines outside charging stations along new expressways. From Delhi to Chennai, transport is becoming the testing ground for how quickly the country can reduce oil dependence while expanding mobility for a rising middle class.

Automakers have taken note. The conversation is shifting from horsepower to a quieter contest over range, charging speed and real-world usability.

Into this landscape, VinFast has moved with unusual speed for a relatively new entrant. In just over a year, it has established local assembly in Tamil Nadu, rolled out the VF 6 and VF 7 for Indian customers, and built partnerships that extend beyond the showroom floor. It has also begun rethinking how it speaks to drivers, focusing on practicality and ease of use.

The most direct way to accelerate change is to meet drivers where they are: behind the wheel of petrol vehicles. VinFast’s newly-launched exchange programme does exactly that. Owners of internal combustion cars are invited to trade in their vehicles and upgrade to a new VF 6 or VF 7, receiving special cash support alongside financing options arranged with partner banks.

The idea is that by placing immediate financial value on the old car, VinFast lowers the psychological and economic barrier to EV entry, turning a sentimental goodbye into a financial calculation, a switch from fuel to the future.

The offer includes exchange bonuses and structured payment plans designed to narrow the upfront gap between petrol and electric ownership. Buyers stepping into a VF 6 or VF 7 receive not only the vehicle, but also access to fast charging capability, advanced driver assistance systems and connected features that are standard across the range.

The VF 6, for instance, offers up to 468 kilometres of range under MIDC testing, a 59.6 kWh battery and DC fast charging from 10 to 70 percent in roughly 25 minutes. The VF 7 pairs that with higher output variants and a similarly robust safety package. Both models have earned five-star safety ratings under Bharat NCAP, a detail that matters in a market increasingly attentive to crash standards.

The exchange program is a move VinFast borrows from its playbook in Vietnam, where such events often drew thousands of participants in a single day, with hundreds of vehicles traded on site. Part auto show, part community event, the gatherings had a simple effect: one petrol car out, one electric vehicle in. The spectacle served a practical function, reducing tailpipe emissions while expanding the visible presence of EVs on city roads.

“Some people arrived curious,” recalled one sales manager involved in earlier events. “They left with a brand new EV after a test drive and a closer look at the numbers. Once they saw the monthly cost difference, the charging convenience and our aftersales commitments, the decision felt like a natural next step.”

Aftersales as Assurance

Electric vehicles are not sustained by vehicles alone. They require charging points, service bays and roadside assistance that function as reliably as the cars themselves. Without these, early enthusiasm can erode into frustration.

In India, VinFast has invested heavily in building that scaffolding, signing agreements with dealer groups across dozens of cities and partnering with service providers to establish a network of workshops designed to handle EV specific repairs. Charging infrastructure is being expanded in collaboration with strategic partner V-Green and fuel retail partners, leveraging existing petrol station networks to host fast chargers.

There are financial assurances as well. Industry-leading warranty of up to 10 years, free charging periods and complimentary maintenance packages are structured to ease the first years of ownership, when questions are most frequent and habits are still forming. With these facets of ownership addressed, a driver considering an exchange does not have to map every charger before setting out, nor wonder where to turn if a warning light appears.

“I went with VinFast because I felt I was not being asked to take a leap of faith just to go green,” said a recent VF 7 owner in Tamil Nadu. “The ecosystem was already there.”

India’s green transition is still in motion. Yet each exchanged key, each new charging station, each locally assembled battery pack adds weight to the shift.

For VinFast, the approach is cumulative. Remove one petrol car. Add one electric SUV. Support it with service, charging and financing. Repeat, steadily and without theatrics, until the electric option feels like the obvious choice.

About VinFast

VinFast (NASDAQ: VFS), a subsidiary of Vingroup JSC, one of Vietnam's largest conglomerates, is a pure-play electric vehicle manufacturer with the mission of making EVs accessible to everyone. VinFast's product lineup includes a wide range of electric SUVs, e-scooters, and e-buses. The company is rapidly expanding its global distribution network and manufacturing capabilities with facilities in Vietnam, India, and planned operations in the United States.

The company's Thoothukudi facility in Tamil Nadu represents a $500 million investment and will produce 150,000 vehicles annually when fully operational, creating approximately 3,500 direct jobs.

Learn more at: vinfastauto.in

With surround view, smart safety systems and strong warranties, the VF 6 helps drivers, especially women, manage India’s roads with a little more ease and a lot more confidence

On a humid Tuesday evening in Chennai, Ananya crawls along Cathedral Road, negotiating what can only be described as a live-action obstacle course. Scooters skim past her mirrors. An auto rickshaw darts in like it owns the lane. A delivery van brakes abruptly, because of course it does.

She taps a button, glances at the 360-degree surround view on her screen, and slides neatly into a tight parking slot outside her daughter’s dance class.

“I used to circle the block three times before parking,” she says. “Now I just park.”

Ananya drives the VinFast VF 6, which was a gift from her husband on their sixth wedding anniversary. For her, the switch was initially just a chance to try something new. But over time, it has become something more, almost as if it were designed for the kind of daily negotiations Indian women drivers make on the road.

Safety In Numbers, And More
In January, the VF 6 earned a full 5-star rating from India’s Bharat NCAP, the country’s official crash test programme, scoring 27.13 out of 32 in Adult Occupant Protection and 44.41 out of 49 in Child Occupant Protection. In side impact tests, it delivered full marks for adult and child occupants.

For many women, safety is not an abstract concept. “If I am driving my six-year-old across the city, I want reassurance that the car is safe,” says Ananya. “Crash ratings matter. A lot.”

The VF 6 backs that up with 7 airbags, including curtain airbags, and a reinforced structure that showed its mettle in the Bharat NCAP frontal impact test.

Safety also means surviving what is outside the car: Delhi’s winter smog. Bengaluru’s construction dust. Mumbai’s humidity. The VF 6 addresses this with a PM1.0 air filter and air ionizer on select variants. It sounds technical, but the effect is immediate. For women driving with children or elderly family members, cabin air quality is part of everyday health management, less coughing, fewer complaints from the back seat.

For the long term, the VF 6 offers a 7 year or 160,000 km vehicle warranty and an 8 year unlimited kilometre battery warranty in Asia markets. Long coverage reduces financial anxiety, especially for first-time EV buyers.

See Everything With 360-Degree View
If one feature comes up again and again, it is the 360-degree Surround View Monitor. 

In dense traffic, spatial awareness is survival. The bird’s eye view stitches together feeds from multiple cameras, showing scooters, stray dogs, low boundary walls, and unpredictable pedestrians. In practical terms, this reduces stress and the likelihood of minor scrapes that turn into major repair bills. Add Blind Spot Detection, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Automatic Emergency Braking on higher variants, and the car quietly compensates for what Indian traffic throws at you. A VF 6 owner may not control the biker who appears out of nowhere, but the car certainly helps level the playing field.

The VF 6 offers selectable drive modes and a steering system tuned to be light at low speeds and stable at higher speeds. In city conditions, that lighter steering reduces fatigue during parking and tight U turns. It also comes with 190 mm ground clearance and a compact 4.2 metre length, a sweet spot for navigating broken roads and narrow lanes without feeling oversized.

Recognition Beyond the Showroom
In December 2025 and early 2026, the VF 6 kept showing up on India’s automotive awards lists, which is usually a good sign that something is working. At the Autocar India Awards 2026, it won “Value for Money Car of the Year,” recognised for its strong balance of pricing, equipment and everyday usability. At the Auto9 Awards 2026, the VF 6 was honoured again for its overall proposition, alongside VinFast’s brand win for “New Entrant of the Year.” More recently, at the Auto Excellence Awards 2026, it secured “Value for Money EV of the Year,” further cementing its reputation as a smart, well-equipped electric SUV at an accessible price point.

These awards, from respected Indian industry programmes, underscore the VF 6’s ability to combine practical appeal with real-world performance and competitive positioning across multiple independent evaluations.

A Shift in Who Is at the Wheel
As the ones who hold up half the sky, women can and should be part of the EV adoption curve, ideally as the ones asking the tough questions at the showroom. In that context, and in line with VinFast’s vision of “EV for all,” the VF 6 does not sideline women. It makes its case not with a single headline feature, but with a combination of safety credentials, 360 degree visibility, adaptive steering, air filtration, and a long warranty that come together as a coherent daily tool.

Ananya sums it up as she pulls out of her parking spot with a quick glance at the surround view.

“I do not feel like I am managing the car,” she says. “I feel like it is helping me manage the road.”

About VinFast
VinFast (NASDAQ: VFS), a subsidiary of Vingroup JSC, one of Vietnam's largest conglomerates, is a pure-play electric vehicle manufacturer with the mission of making EVs accessible to everyone. VinFast's product lineup includes a wide range of electric SUVs, e-scooters, and e-buses. The company is rapidly expanding its global distribution network and manufacturing capabilities with facilities in Vietnam, India, and planned operations in the United States.

The company's Thoothukudi facility in Tamil Nadu represents a $500 million investment and will produce 150,000 vehicles annually when fully operational, creating approximately 3,500 direct jobs.

Learn more at: vinfastauto.in

Bhartendu Singh (center), Chief Marketing Officer of VinFast India, received the awards from the organizers of the Auto Excellence Awards 2026

The Auto Excellence Awards by Carbike360 & CMV360 are among India’s leading automotive accolades, celebrating excellence across vehicle segments based on independent evaluations, real-world relevance, innovation, and consumer value. The dual recognition highlights VinFast’s focused approach to delivering electric vehicles that combine modern design, advanced technology, safety, and competitive pricing tailored for Indian customers.

VinFast’s recognition as Emerging EV Brand of the Year reflects the brand’s strong market entry strategy, rapid brand recall, and clear commitment to building a sustainable and customer-centric electric vehicle ecosystem in India. From product planning to localization and long-term infrastructure development, VinFast has positioned itself as a serious and future-ready EV player in the country.

The VinFast VF 6, awarded Value for Money EV of the Year, impressed the jury with its balanced proposition in the highly competitive electric SUV segment. Designed to meet the expectations of urban and first-time EV buyers, the VF 6 offers a compelling mix of contemporary design, practical range, smart features, strong safety credentials, and accessible pricing—making electric mobility more attainable for a wider audience. In addition, VinFast’s growing product portfolio, including the premium VF 7, continues to strengthen the brand’s positioning in India, offering customers a higher-segment electric SUV that combines bold design, advanced technology, strong performance, and top-tier safety standards.

Speaking on the achievement, Mr. Tapan Ghosh, CEO, VinFast India, said, “We are honoured to receive these recognitions at the Auto Excellence Awards 2026. Being named Emerging EV Brand of the Year validates our vision and long-term commitment to India, while the VF 6 winning Value for Money EV of the Year underscores our focus on delivering thoughtfully designed electric vehicles that truly resonate with Indian consumers. These awards motivate us to continue raising the bar in our journey towards sustainable mobility.”

Ashish Masih, Editor-in-Chief, CarBike360 added, “VinFast has made a confident and promising entry into the Indian EV market. The brand’s clear strategy, coupled with products like the VF 6 that prioritizes value, usability, and technology, makes VinFast a deserving winner in both categories this year.”

With a structured investment roadmap, VinFast is steadily building a comprehensive electric vehicle ecosystem in India, encompassing manufacturing, sales and service networks, charging solutions, and customer support. Guided by innovation and sustainability, VinFast aims to play a key role in accelerating India’s transition to greener mobility.

About VinFast
VinFast (NASDAQ: VFS), a subsidiary of Vingroup JSC, one of Vietnam’s largest conglomerates, is a pure-play electric vehicle (“EV”) manufacturer with the mission of making EVs accessible to everyone. VinFast’s product lineup today includes a wide range of electric SUVs, e-scooters, and e-buses. 

VinFast is currently embarking on its next growth phase through rapid expansion of its distribution and dealership network globally and increasing its manufacturing capacities with a focus on key markets across North America, Europe, the Middle East and Asia.

Learn more at: vinfastauto.in

Ampere Enters Asia Book of Records - Navigates 70-hairpin bends of Kolli Hills, TN

The record attempt was conducted on January 7^th, 2026, with the ride commencing at 7:00 am and successfully completed in 22 minutes 10 seconds. The ascent was undertaken using GEML’s Ampere Nexus, from Belukurichi to the summit of Kolli Hills. Officials from the Asia Book of Records officially validated and confirmed the success on the same day.

With its 70 hairpin bends, this challenging route showcased and proved Greaves Electric Mobility’s “Built for Bharat” engineering prowess, where vehicles are designed, developed, and validated for India’s diverse and often challenging riding conditions. From steep gradients and broken hill roads to sharp turns and sustained load cycles, GEML’s electric two-wheelers are engineered to handle the toughest terrains the country has to offer.

Taking cognizance of the latest achievement, Mr Vikas Singh, Managing Director, Greaves Electric Mobility said, “India’s riding conditions are among the most demanding in the world, and our approach has always been to engineer electric vehicles that are built for Bharat, not just for ideal test environments. The Kolli Hills ascent is a real-world validation of that philosophy. The Ampere Nexus combines safe and durable LFP battery technology with a robust dual-frame chassis that is designed to handle steep gradients, repeated cornering, and sustained load conditions. Achievements like this reaffirm our focus on building electric mobility solutions that can perform reliably across tough terrains.”

The Ampere Nexus achieved this success due to its LFP battery and high tensile steel chassis which provides durability for every condition, work together on demanding terrain. The battery is built to stay stable in a wide range of conditions, operating from –40°C to 60°C, and continues to deliver usable power during long uphill stretches, repeated braking, and changes in load. The warranty offered on the battery reflects the confidence in how it performs over extended everyday use rather than short tests. Ampere Nexus’s advanced motor and software deliver instant torque for climbs, regenerative braking for descents, and traction control for slippery slopes - ensuring smooth, efficient performance across every terrain.

The high strength steel chassis adds to this by keeping the vehicle balanced and predictable, especially while negotiating continuous hairpin bends. With a motor tuned for sustained output and braking that responds consistently, the Nexus remains manageable even on steep climbs. These aspects have been observed over multiple endurance runs and record attempts, and the Kolli Hills ascent serves as another real-world example of how the scooter holds up under demanding conditions.

The recognition by the Asia Book of Records is a first for Greaves Electric Mobility, reinforcing its commitment for India-built products which can cater to the world. With a market presence in Nepal and developing presence in Sri Lanka, the Philippines and Africa, this recognition validates the brand’s endurance, capability and durability.

Furthermore, it reinforces the company’s belief that adoption is driven by real-world experience. As electric two-wheelers move beyond city limits, this milestone demonstrates that vehicles engineered for Indian roads are capable of performing consistently even in demanding and rugged terrain. Built to outlast, outperform and outshine, Greaves Electric Mobility’s products continue to prove their capability across conditions that reflect how India truly rides.

More information: Link

About Greaves Cotton Limited

Greaves Cotton Limited (GCL), also known as Greaves, is a diversified, multi-product, multi-fuel, and multi-location engineering company with a legacy of 165 years and strong brand trust. Originally renowned for its single-cylinder diesel engines, Greaves has transformed into a fuel-agnostic, end-to-end mobility solutions provider, driven by the purpose of "Empowering Lives”. The Company is enabling a sustainable transition to green mobility and aims to touch a billion lives by 2030. Greaves is building a digitally integrated ecosystem that connects consumers, business partners, and service providers across the entire mobility value chain.

Through its five independent business units—Greaves Engineering, Greaves Electric Mobility Ltd., Greaves Retail, Greaves Finance Ltd., and Greaves Technologies Ltd.—Greaves combines agility with strategic focus, delivering innovation and enhancing accessibility for consumers. With significant investments in technology and human capital, the Company is positioned to lead in India’s EV and sustainable mobility markets. The Company remains committed to sustainable growth and economic progress, making it a trusted partner in shaping the future of mobility in India.

For more information, visit- www.greavescotton.com

About Greaves Electric Mobility Limited

Greaves Electric Mobility Limited (GEML), the electric mobility business of Greaves Cotton Limited (GCL), is one of the first companies in India to focus on the evolving market of electric vehicles (“EV”) and has been among the frontrunners at driving EV adoption in the country*. With over 17 years of experience designing and manufacturing electric vehicles*, GEML serves both the electric 2-wheeler and 3-wheeler segments. GEML along with its subsidiaries, operates three manufacturing plants located in Hyderabad, Noida, and Ranipet. The company supports its network through 400 dealer touchpoints across India, thereby aiming minimal downtime and enhanced customer experience. GEML holds 8 India Book of Records** titles, reflecting its focus on technology and design led innovative & durable mobility solutions. Subsidiaries MLR Auto Limited and Bestway Agencies Private Limited help extend GEML’s market presence. Committed to affordability and sustainability, GEML provides clean mobility solutions contributing to India’s shift toward electric transportation.

Mr. Tapan Ghosh (center), CEO of VinFast India, received the award from Mr. Cyrus Dhabhar, Managing Editor at Exhibit Group & BBC TopGear India

The BBC TopGear India Awards is a prestigious annual awards program organized by BBC TopGear India magazine, one of India’s leading automotive publications and globally-recognized platform that celebrate best vehicles, innovations, and automotive excellence from the preceding year. Considered industry benchmarks, this award influences consumer perception and reinforces brand credibility for the models and manufacturers recognised.

This year, the VinFast VF 7 impressed the jury with its market-focused approach to product development for India, where consumers increasingly prioritise long-term value, running costs and safety. The VF 7 was recognised as a model that meets these expectations effectively, while still standing out with high standards of design, technology, features, and performance.

The VF 7, positioned in the premium C-SUV segment, stands out with a striking exterior and breakthrough design based on the “Asymmetric Aerospace” philosophy. It offers a combination of premium design, modern technology, robust safety features, and performance. The VF 7 recently received a 5-star BNCAP safety rating, further reinforcing VinFast’s commitment to making safety one of the core pillars of its brand in India. With its distinctive presence and strong value proposition, the VF 7 is poised to make a clear mark in India’s rapidly growing electric vehicle landscape.

The award at the BBC TopGear India Awards 2026 represents an important milestone for the VF 7 and adds to VinFast’s growing list of achievements as the brand expands across international markets. It also reflects VinFast’s consistent strategy of making premium electric vehicles more accessible to a wider range of customers.

Mr. Tapan Ghosh, Chief Executive Officer of VinFast India, stated, “We are excited to win the ‘EV SUV of the year’ Award at BBC TopGear India Awards 2026 as it is an incredible milestone for VinFast. This is clear proof that we are on the right track with our strategy of delivering accessible, value-driven premium electric vehicles that combine distinctive design, exhilarating performance, and top-tier safety. It inspires us to keep raising the bar as we bring modern, safe, and sustainable mobility solutions to Indian customers.”

Mr. Ramesh Somani, Founder, Chief Editor at Exhibit Group & BBC TopGear India, said, “On the eve of the 6th Edition of the BBC TopGear India Awards, we celebrate the machines and the minds shaping the future of mobility in India. From performance to innovation and sustainability, this year’s winners have raised the bar higher than ever. The VF 7 represents the kind of thoughtful, no-compromise electric SUV that buyers are looking for today, which is why it earns our EV SUV of the Year – Editors’ Choice.” 

With a well-defined investment strategy, VinFast is gradually building a comprehensive electric vehicle ecosystem in India that integrates manufacturing, financial solutions, charging infrastructure, and after-sales services to ensure a seamless electric vehicle ownership experience for customers. Guided by a strong focus on sustainability and innovation, and with products such as the VF 7, VinFast continues to advance its mission to accelerate the transition to green mobility in one of the world’s most dynamic automotive markets.

About VinFast
VinFast (NASDAQ: VFS), a subsidiary of Vingroup JSC, one of Vietnam’s largest conglomerates, is a pure-play electric vehicle (“EV”) manufacturer with the mission of making EVs accessible to everyone. VinFast’s product lineup today includes a wide range of electric SUVs, e-scooters, and e-buses. 

VinFast is currently embarking on its next growth phase through rapid expansion of its distribution and dealership network globally and increasing its manufacturing capacities with a focus on key markets across North America, Europe, the Middle East and Asia.

Learn more at: vinfastauto.in

Mr. Pham Sanh Chau (right), CEO of VinFast Asia, and Mr. D. Ananda Kumar, General Manager – Supply Chain Finance, Bank of Baroda, at the signing ceremony

Under the dealer finance tie-up, Bank of Baroda will extend INR 200 Cr finance to VinFast dealers on flexible terms. The collaboration enables VinFast to leverage Bank of Baroda’s extensive pan-India branch network and digital platforms to reach customers across both urban and emerging markets. It also aligns with the company’s broader goal of accelerating the adoption of sustainable transportation solutions in India, one of the fastest-growing EV markets globally.

The MoU was signed by Mr. Pham Sanh Chau, CEO of VinFast Asia, along with Mr. Madhur Kumar, Chief General Manager - MSME Banking, Co-Lending, and Supply Chain Finance and Mr. D Ananda Kumar, General Manager, Supply Chain Finance BANK OF BARODA at Baroda Corporate Centre, BANK OF BARODA, Mumbai.

Mr. Pham Sanh Chau, CEO of VinFast Asia, shared: “The shift to electric mobility succeeds when customers and dealers have the right tools and support. Our partnership with Bank of Baroda is a step towards building that ecosystem, providing hassle-free financing solutions that make it easier for dealers to manage inventory. By working together, we are ensuring a smoother ownership experience and making EV adoption more reassuring for our customers, while advancing India’s path toward greener transportation.”

Mr. Madhur Kumar, Chief General Manager - MSME Banking, Co-Lending, and Supply Chain Finance, Bank  of Baroda, said,: “As EV adoption accelerates, access to financing will play a vital role in driving this transition. Our collaboration with VinFast will offer dealers convenient credit solutions tailored to its premium EV lineup, reflecting the Bank’s broader commitment to sustainability. Such partnerships also help us empower our customers to achieve their green mobility aspirations with ease.”

After just one year of presence, VinFast has steadily made its mark in India’s electric vehicle market through a long-term development strategy, a premium product portfolio, and the establishment of a comprehensive electric vehicle ecosystem covering manufacturing, retail, charging infrastructure, and after-sales services. With a firm commitment to innovation, sustainable development, and a user centric approach, VinFast continues to contribute to the transition toward green mobility and the long-term growth of India’s automotive industry.

About VinFast

VinFast (NASDAQ: VFS), a subsidiary of Vingroup JSC, one of Vietnam’s largest conglomerates, is a pure-play electric vehicle (“EV”) manufacturer with the mission of making EVs accessible to everyone. VinFast’s product lineup today includes a wide range of electric SUVs, e-scooters, and e-buses.

VinFast is currently embarking on its next growth phase through rapid expansion of its distribution and dealership network globally and increasing its manufacturing capacities with a focus on key markets across North America, Europe and Asia.

Learn more at: vinfastauto.in,

About Bank of Baroda

Founded on 20th July, 1908 by Sir Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, Bank of Baroda is one of the leading commercial banks having PAN India presence. At 63.97% stake, it is majorly owned by the Government of India. The Bank serves its global customer base of over ~180 million through around 65,000 touch points spread across 15 countries in five continents and through its various digital banking platforms, which provide all banking products and services in a seamless and hassle-free manner. The Bank’s vision matches the aspirations of its diverse clientele base and seeks to instill a sense of trust and security in all their dealings with the Bank.

Visit us at bankofbaroda.bank.in.

MATTER - TechUp3.0 - The New Continuum

With this announcement, MATTER positions intelligence not hardware alone as the defining layer of the next generation of two-wheelers. The AIDV platform establishes a scalable technology and product roadmap spanning multiple products over the next 36–48 months, while establishing MATTER as a proven long-term leader in performance, efficiency, safety, and lifecycle value, with alternate materials as a complementary key initiative in building sustainable, future-ready vehicles.

A Defining Moment for Indian Two-Wheelers

With Technology Day 3.0, MATTER positioned itself not merely as an EV manufacturer, but as a deep-technology company redefining how two-wheelers are conceived, engineered, and evolved ahead of time. The unveiling of the AIDV platform marks a decisive inflection point, signalling a structural shift in how electric two-wheelers are built, experienced, and taken into the future.

AIDV: Redefining the Architecture of Two-Wheelers

MATTER emphasised that AIDVs are not incremental upgrades over existing electric architectures. They represent a fundamental re-architecture ahead of field where intelligence actively governs how materials, energy, power, and control systems behave in real-world conditions.

Unlike mechanically defined vehicles (MDVs), where performance and behaviour are fixed at the time of production, or electronically defined vehicles (EDVs), where control improves through electronics, and software-defined vehicles (SDVs)—such as MATTER AERA, which represents an SDV architecture with vehicle functions and behaviours defined and upgraded through software—AIDVs continuously evolve across the entire vehicle lifecycle.

Intelligence sits at the core, enabling consistent real-world performance and energy efficiency, predictive reliability with lower lifetime ownership costs, continuous capability expansion through software, and deep personalisation with adaptive ride behaviour tech forward by design.

As vehicles transition from Mechanical → Electronic → Software → Intelligence-Driven, MATTER aims to set the benchmark for the next generation, ahead of time where materials, machines, and intelligence operate as a single, adaptive system.

This approach enables electric two-wheelers to move beyond traditional constraints of energy density, thermal management, and power delivery—positioning them not merely as alternatives to fossil-fuel vehicles, but as a new reference point for the category, ahead of field.

Innovation That Already Matters: AERA as SDV 1.0

MATTER highlighted that this transition did not begin today. With AERA, the company has already delivered multiple industry-first paradigm shifts:

• Hypershift™ gearbox, redefining rider control and engagement in EVs,

• Liquid-cooled motor and battery, breaking long-standing thermal ceilings in E2Ws

• Deeply embedded control systems, integrating FOC into CLA

• Cell and pack innovations, enabling improved repairability, laser-welded integrity, and higher power density

• MATTER reiterated that AERA is already an SDV 1.0 platform, proven, with every OTA release enhancing vehicle character and capability on unchanged hardware.

From Software-Defined to AI-Defined Vehicles

While Software-Defined Vehicles digitised vehicles through connectivity and updates, MATTER’s AIDV architecture introduces a deeper shift, tech forward intelligence embedded directly into control and decision layers.

Here, intelligence governs how motors adapt torque and efficiency in real time, how batteries age and protect themselves, how thermal systems manage stress rather than derate performance, and how vehicles predict faults, adapt behaviour, and improve over time.

This allows MATTER to manage rising system complexity without slowing development—turning engineering depth into a proven long-term competitive advantage.

Materials, Reimagined—and Governed by Intelligence

MATTER underscored that the next decade will be defined not only by AI, but equally by new materials—and by intelligence that understands and governs those materials, ahead of time.

Key breakthroughs include rare-earth-free motor architectures, adaptive variable flux drives, advanced semiconductor and sensor strategies, and cell-level intelligence unlocking industry-leading battery life and consistency.

By embedding intelligence into how materials behave—not just how they are selected—MATTER unlocks new benchmarks in efficiency, longevity, and customer experience, ahead of field.

Domain-Integrated Compute & Intelligence at Scale

MATTER detailed its domain and zonal integration strategy, optimising compute across the vehicle rather than distributing intelligence across isolated controllers—tech forward in execution. This balances edge and cloud intelligence, enabling higher performance, lower latency, and scalable complexity without hardware sprawl.

Speaking at the event, Mohal Lalbhai, Founder and Group CEO, MATTER, said: “Two-wheelers have been mechanically defined for decades. Intelligence-Driven Vehicles change that permanently. When intelligence governs materials, energy, and control—not just software—we unlock vehicles that continuously outperform their own starting point. This is not an EV transition. This is a category reset.”

Kumar Prasad Tellikepalli, Founder and Group CTO, MATTER, added, “Intelligence is the only way to scale complexity without slowing innovation. AIDVs allow us to compress development cycles, improve first-time-right outcomes, and build vehicles that learn from every kilometre ridden—while introducing a new approach to materials, where intelligence governs how materials behave, age, and perform in real-world conditions. This is how engineering depth becomes a proven compounding advantage.”

The future of two-wheelers is not electric alone.
It is intelligent.

Five-Segment Product Expansion Strategy (36–48 Months)

MATTER announced a five-segment expansion roadmap, all built on a common AI-defined hardware, software, compute, and data backbone:

• Naked Street Motorcycles

• Street Fighter Motorcycles

• Adventure (ADV) Motorcycles

• Youth-Focused Commuter Motorcycles

• Electric Scooters

This strategy enables MATTER to address the majority of India’s two-wheeler demand spectrum through a core, scalable technology platform.

Long-Term Technology Leadership

MATTER reported 400+ technology innovations supported by 97 granted patents, reinforcing the company’s proven long-term intellectual property defensibility and deep-technology foundation.

With the AIDV platform, MATTER has laid out a clear direction: to lead the transition from mechanically defined motorcycles to AI-defined electric motorcycles, ahead of time, setting new benchmarks for performance, reliability, and ownership experience.

For more information, please visit: www.matter.in.

Mr. Pham Sanh Chau (center) received the 5-STAR Bharat NCAP safety certification for the VF 6 from Shri. Nitin Gadkari, Hon. Minister of Road Transport and Highways, Govt. of India

According to Bharat NCAP test results, both VF 6 and VF 7 achieved 5-star ratings in the two core safety categories. Specifically, VF 6 recorded 27.13/32 points in Adult Occupant Protection (AOP) and 44.41/49 points in Child Occupant Protection (COP). VF 7 achieved 28.54/32 points in AOP and 45.25/49 points in COP. These scores reflect a high level of protection for both adult and child occupants across both models.

In the crash test assessments, the two VinFast models continued to demonstrate strong safety performance. In frontal impact tests, head & neck and upper leg protection scores for both the driver and passenger in VF 6 and VF 7 reached 4.000 points, the maximum on the Bharat NCAP scale. In side impact tests, both vehicles achieved full scores of 16.000/16.000 for adult occupants and 8.000/8.000 for child occupants.

In the pole side impact test, the head injury assessment values for VF 6 and VF 7 were recorded at 109 and 131 respectively, significantly lower than the Bharat NCAP critical threshold of 700. These results indicate effective head protection in high-risk crash scenarios.

Bharat NCAP is a vehicle safety assessment programme implemented by the Government of India, aligned with international practices such as Global NCAP. The programme evaluates occupant protection through a range of crash tests and awards safety ratings from 3 to 5 stars. Achieving the highest rating confirms that VF 6 and VF 7 meet the rigorous safety standards currently applied in the Indian market.

Previously, VinFast models have also received positive recognition from regional safety assessment organisations, reflecting the company’s consistent focus on safety. Notably, the VinFast VF 8 achieved a 5-star ASEAN NCAP rating and surpassed more than 15 major automakers to secure 5 out of 6 safety awards from the organisation in 2024.

Mr. Tapan Ghosh, CEO of VinFast India, said, “The 5-star safety ratings awarded to VF 6 and VF 7 by Bharat NCAP mark an important milestone, underscoring the quality and high safety standards of VinFast’s electric vehicles in India, one of the world’s largest automotive markets. These results show that VinFast EVs are built on a robust engineering foundation and meet stringent safety assessment requirements. We remain committed to continued investment in product improvement, delivering electric vehicles that are not only environmentally friendly and technologically advanced, but also provide customers with confidence and peace of mind throughout the journey toward electrified mobility.”

Assembled at VinFast’s manufacturing facility in Tamil Nadu, VF 6 and VF 7 are premium electric SUVs designed for customers with high expectations for safety, technology, and everyday practicality. In addition to a 5-star Bharat NCAP-rated EV-dedicated platform, both models are equipped with 7 airbags and variant-dependent smart ADAS features, such as Auto Lane Changing Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, Emergency Lane Keeping Assist, Front and Rear Automatic Emergency Brake, and Blind Spot Detection, enhancing collision avoidance capability and driving support across diverse traffic conditions.

The two electric SUVs form an important part of VinFast’s comprehensive EV ecosystem in India, which encompasses local manufacturing, a retail network, charging infrastructure, and aftersales services. This integrated approach aims to deliver a seamless customer experience through strategic partnerships with local stakeholders.

About VinFast

VinFast (NASDAQ: VFS), a subsidiary of Vingroup JSC, one of Vietnam’s largest conglomerates, is a pure-play electric vehicle (“EV”) manufacturer with the mission of making EVs accessible to everyone. VinFast’s product lineup today includes a wide range of electric SUVs, e-scooters, and e-buses.

VinFast is currently embarking on its next growth phase through rapid expansion of its distribution and dealership network globally and increasing its manufacturing capacities with a focus on key markets across North America, Europe, the Middle East and Asia.

Learn more at: vinfastauto.in.

VinFast rolled its 200,000th electric vehicle of 2025 out of the Hai Phong plant

That sense of continuity turned into a milestone on December 31, when VinFast rolled its 200,000th electric vehicle of 2025 out of the Hai Phong plant. The number capped a year in which the company had already spent more than twelve months as the best-selling car brand in Vietnam, steadily widening a gap between itself and long-established rivals.

The factory itself helps explain how that pace has been sustained. With more than 1,200 ABB robots and a production process nearing 90 percent automation, the Hai Phong plant runs with the discipline and rhythm of a mature global manufacturer. December alone saw nearly 26,000 vehicles completed. On its busiest day, the plant produced more than a thousand cars in 24 hours, a level of output that puts it firmly in gigafactory territory.

The identity of the 200,000th vehicle mattered as much as the number itself. It was the Limo Green, a fully electric seven-seat MPV that has become one of VinFast’s standout successes. In November 2025, the model posted monthly sales of 9,642 units, the highest single-month figure ever recorded by any car in Vietnam. The appeal is straightforward and deliberate: space, features, and practicality, wrapped into an electric MPV designed for families and fleet buyers alike. VinFast plans to bring the Limo Green to India and Indonesia next, markets where affordable electric people movers have big growth potential.

While celebrations were underway in Hai Phong, another piece of good news arrived from more than 5,000 kilometers away. On that same December 31st, India’s VAHAN data showed VinFast had recorded 321 new electric vehicle registrations for the month, overtaking both Hyundai and Kia. The result placed VinFast fourth in India’s EV market in December, a notable showing for a brand still learning its way around the country.

The ranking deserves attention. Although VinFast officially launched its brand in January 2025, sales only began in September, and with just two models, the VF 6 and VF 7, both assembled locally at its Tamil Nadu plant. Four months later, the company had already expanded to 35 showrooms nationwide.

“VinFast’s entry is raising the bar for design, features, and performance in the EV segment,” wrote one industry observer.

Taken together, these developments suggest a company stepping into 2026 with its footing secure. Beyond Hai Phong, VinFast brought three new factories online over the past year, in Ha Tinh in Vietnam, Tamil Nadu in India, and Subang in Indonesia. The footprint reflects a strategy built around local production, tighter supply chains, and a long view of global growth.

Looking ahead, change is coming, but the direction remains consistent. VinFast is continuing to build out its EV ecosystem, expanding dealerships and service centers while tackling charging access head-on. In December, its strategic charging partner V-Green signed agreements with HPCL to install EV chargers at fuel stations across India, addressing one of the most persistent concerns among Indian EV buyers.

In 2026, the company’s three core pillars will continue to bring tangible benefits to consumers. Vehicles are designed to meet high-quality standards. Pricing is structured to stay inclusive. Exceptional after-sales policies are meant to reduce uncertainty. Indian customers are offered warranties of up to ten years/200,000 km on vehicles and batteries, along with benefits such as three years of free maintenance, incentives that aim to make the transition to electric feel less like a leap of faith.

For a new brand, the strategy signals patience. VinFast is spending early to earn trust later, betting that consistency will matter more than quick wins. As one Indian auto industry analyst observed, the next phase will come down to execution. If manufacturing strength continues to show up in everyday ownership and charging access improves at the same pace, VinFast’s early momentum could carry well beyond 2026.

For customers already behind the wheel, the shift feels personal. “I didn’t buy it just because it looks good and new, though that helps,” said Rahul, a first-time EV owner in Pune. “I bought it because the VinFast team at the showroom made me feel supported, and because they’ve actually built a factory here. That tells me they’re serious about staying for the long term.”

Mr. Tapan Ghosh (right), CEO of VinFast India, accepted the award from Mr. Sachin Malhotra, Head of Operations, Orbitsys Technologies

The Autocar India Awards is a prestigious annual awards program organized by Autocar India, one of India’s leading automotive publications, to honor the most outstanding vehicles and brands in the market. With a history spanning more than 23 years, the awards are widely regarded for their credibility, and many past winners have gone on to achieve significant commercial success and lead their respective segments.

This year, the VinFast VF 6 impressed the jury with its market-focused approach to product development for India, where consumers increasingly prioritise long-term value, running costs and safety. The VF 6 was recognised as a model that meets these expectations effectively, while still maintaining high standards of design and technology.

A B-segment electric SUV, the VF 6 features a modern, compact yet robust design well suited to urban driving conditions. Its interior is thoughtfully crafted to maximise comfort for both driver and passengers, complemented by smart technology features and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) that help enhance safety and convenience in everyday use.

The award at the Autocar India Awards 2026 represents an important milestone for the VF 6 and adds to VinFast’s growing list of achievements as the brand expands across international markets. The recognition reflects VinFast’s consistent strategy of making premium electric vehicles more accessible to a wider range of customers.

Mr. Tapan Ghosh, Chief Executive Officer of VinFast India, stated, “We are proud that VinFast continues to be honored by one of the most prestigious awards programs in the Indian market, the Autocar India Awards 2026. This honour reflects the industry’s appreciation for VinFast’s premium yet accessible electric vehicles, and it motivates us to continue delivering modern, safe and sustainable electric mobility solutions for Indian customers.”

Mr. Hormazd Sorabjee, Editor,  Autocar India, said, “Getting the value equation right in India is never easy, but the well-equipped and practical VF 6 with its Rs sub-20 lakh price range does exactly that. It’s a lot of car for the money.”

With a structured investment strategy, VinFast is gradually building a comprehensive electric vehicle ecosystem in India that integrates manufacturing, financial solutions, charging infrastructure, and after sales services to ensure a seamless electric vehicle ownership experience for customers. Guided by a strong focus on sustainability and innovation, and with products such as the VF 6, VinFast continues to advance its mission to accelerate the transition to green mobility in one of the world’s most dynamic automotive markets.

About VinFast
VinFast (NASDAQ: VFS), a subsidiary of Vingroup JSC, one of Vietnam’s largest conglomerates, is a pure-play electric vehicle (“EV”) manufacturer with the mission of making EVs accessible to everyone. VinFast’s product lineup today includes a wide range of electric SUVs, e-scooters, and e-buses.

VinFast is currently embarking on its next growth phase through rapid expansion of its distribution and dealership network globally and increasing its manufacturing capacities with a focus on key markets across North America, Europe, the Middle East and Asia.

Learn more at: www.vinfastauto.in.

VinFast’s first year in India reveals a playbook built on speed, confidence, and tightly aligned pillars of product, pricing, and aftersales policies

But the underdog never played its part.

Within months of stepping onto Indian soil, VinFast began doing a sequence of moves that made analysts double take. More and more dealers started signing with the brand. Banks shows up to finance both customers and showrooms. And in Tamil Nadu, a factory rose from empty land to a functioning production hub, producing VF 6 and VF 7 units assembled by local workers.

Momentum like this is rarely accidental. It flowed from a playbook VinFast had tested in Vietnam, refined in Southeast Asia, and reinterpreted for India’s unique scale. At the core of this playbook is a trio of commitments that shaped its rise at home and define its ambitions abroad. VinFast refers to them as its three core pillars: high-quality vehicles, inclusive price, and exceptional aftersales policies. These pillars helped VinFast become the top selling automaker in Vietnam, and now they form the spine of its India strategy.

Why VinFast Starts With VF 6 and VF 7

The VF 6 and VF 7 are perharps the clearest expression of how those pillars translate into practice.

VinFast could have chosen to debut with any model, particularly a smaller one to get a low-risk entry. The brand has a wide lineup, from the cute and compact VF 3 that became a phenomenon in Vietnam to the luxury seven-seat VF 9. Yet it chose the VF 6 and VF 7 for India because they embody the company’s core philosophy in a way that feels tailored to Indian consumers.

First, high-quality vehicles. Both models carry European-influenced design and a level of fit and finish that defies the newcomer label. The VF 7 in particular has already captured attention. It was named EV Disruptor of the Year by the Jagran Hi-Tech Awards for its modern styling, spacious interior, and advanced features, which judges viewed as punched far above its expected segment position.

Second, inclusive price. VinFast does not aim to be the cheapest brand in the market. Instead, it positions itself where aspiration meets accessibility. This formula succeeded in Vietnam, where VinFast offered generous equipment levels at competitive pricing, making EV ownership realistic for more households without watering down the premium experience. Even entry models came with features often reserved for higher segments.

The VF 6 and VF 7 follow the same logic in India. They look premium, feel premium, and drive premium, yet remain priced for a segment where buyers are ready to upgrade from combustion vehicles without stepping into luxury territory.

Third, exceptional aftersales policies. VinFast learned in Vietnam that convincing consumers to shift from petrol to electric requires more than technology. It requires confidence. Long warranties, clear maintenance policies, and easy access to service became part of its brand identity. In Vietnam, warranties for several models stretch up to ten years, a signal of engineering confidence that reshaped consumer expectations. Vietnamese users often reported that servicing VinFast models cost dramatically less than comparable petrol cars, sometimes by more than 80% in real world comparisons. These differences helped the brand surge to the top of the Vietnamese market and created a new expectation that a premium EV should also be practical.

In India, the VF 6 and VF 7 arrive with the same class-leading warranty, and VinFast does not stop there. Buyers also get three years of free maintenance and three years of free charging, a little gift made possible through its strategic partner V-Green.

Taken together, the VF 6 and VF 7 represent exactly how the brand intends to flip the script in each market it’s present: Deliver vehicles that feel premium in design and experience, price them within reach of the middle class, and support them with aftersales care that makes EV ownership feel reassuring.

Factory Speaks Louder Than Ads

There is marketing, and then there is a factory rising from the ground in 15 months.

VinFast’s Tamil Nadu plant is the physical expression of the brand’s belief in acting early and acting boldly. When the site was first chosen, there was nothing. The company surveyed fifteen locations across six states, chose Thoothukudi, and began construction with astonishing speed. Soon the plant rolled out the first VF 6 and VF 7, the very models that symbolize VinFast’s aspiration in India.

The pace felt familiar. In Vietnam, the Hai Phong plant had already shown what VinFast’s execution looks like at full throttle. TIME Magazine described the factory floor as a place where “robot arms twirl like pneumatic ballerinas,” welding with 98% automation and producing multiple models on a single line. Even Google Maps could not keep up. The magazine noted that the satellite view still showed half of the 877 acre site sitting under the sea because VinFast built the reclaimed land faster than the satellite could refresh.

Before the year was over, VinFast made another decisive move by signing an MOU with the Government of Tamil Nadu to expand its Thoothukudi facility on roughly 500 acres of newly allocated land. As part of the second phase of its 2 billion dollar commitment, VinFast is expected to invest an additional 500 million dollars to build dedicated production lines for electric buses and e-scooters, expanding beyond its current electric car output.

Beyond the factory, VinFast brings with them a full ecosystem philosophy. Even before sales began, VinFast secured nationwide service and roadside partnerships with myTVS, RoadGrid, and Global Assure. It formed a battery lifecycle agreement with BatX, showing long-term responsibility for sustainability. And it laid the foundation for a charging network through V-Green, the company founded by VinFast founder Pham Nhat Vuong and which has been platform that already anchors Vietnam’s dense EV infrastructure.

In parallel, the support infrastructure extends through financing partnerships. VinFast secured alliances with YES BANK, HDFC Bank, ICICI, Kotak, Axis, and the State Bank of India. These agreements cover retail buyers, dealer inventory, corporate fleets, and even in showroom financing. Banks responded enthusiastically perharps because VinFast arrived with credible scale, local manufacturing, and a commitment to long term presence that made lenders comfortable extending generous limits.

Dealers noticed too. Within months, inquiries poured in daily from dealership groups across India wanting a spot in the network, including cities that were nowhere near VinFast’s initial rollout plan.

This ecosystem approach is not only operational. It is philosophical. It assures customers that buying a VF 6 or VF 7 is not a leap of faith into an untested category, but a move into a supported, well designed EV experience.

The early response from Indian journalists and influencers has been a clear indicator of VinFast’s resonance. During his tour of Vingroup’s ecosystem and the VinFast Hai Phong manufacturing complex, Vishal Ahlawat was immediately struck by the sheer scale on display. As he put it, “The first thing I noticed was the vastness of the land, an enormous facility where they manufacture two wheelers, four wheelers, and even buses.”

Seeing VinFast vehicles everywhere in Vietnam also sparked a sense of possibility for the Indian market. He added, “I would definitely love to see that in India someday.”

A First Year That Reads Like a Mission Statement

Perhaps the most striking part of VinFast’s first year in India is not the size of the factory or the number of banks or even the speed of construction. Rather, it’s the clarity of its intent. The company behaves not like a speculative entrant but like a long-term partner, building not for this quarter, but for the years that follow.

It has already woven India into a production and service ecosystem that spans Vietnam, Indonesia, and other markets in Asia. And it has introduced vehicles that are not stepping stones, but flag bearers. The VF 6 and VF 7 are the embodiment of the company’s three pillars. They prove that VinFast is not trying to sell just electric cars to India, but trying to build a complete, trustworthy EV experience.

In Vietnam, this approach took VinFast from outsider to market leader. In India, it has already begun rewriting expectations of what a newcomer can pull off in a single year.

A first year rarely changes a market, but it can set the mood for what follows. And if this is how VinFast begins its India story, the next chapter for a newcomer that behaves nothing like a newcomer is bound to be worth watching.

VinFast has quietly climbed into the ranks of India’s top electric vehicle brands

VinFast’s debut in India on Jan 17 of last year caught even veteran showgoers off guard. The company had brought right-hand drive versions tailored specifically for Indian consumers, a quiet signal that it was here with purpose, not testing the waters. Still, few in the hall recognized the badge. Amid the hum of announcements and clicking shutters, one visitor leaned toward a friend and asked, “Who are these people?”

That question did not hang in the air for long. In the weeks that followed, a group of Indian journalists traveled to Vietnam to see where the cars came from. What they discovered in the northen city of Hai Phong reframed everything.

“I had no idea VinFast is such a big group,” auto journalist Swati Agrawal recalled. “I saw the factory, the manufacturing plant, and not only cars, even scooters, buses, electric buses. Everything is being manufactured in one place. Three lakh cars per year. This is not a small brand.”

Her reaction points to a deeper story. VinFast’s sudden visibility in India is not merely an export push. It is the latest chapter in Vietnam’s own industrial transformation, one that has accelerated quickly enough to catch even Asia’s seasoned automotive observers off guard.

A 400-Acre Factory… From Nothing

By the time the expo lights dimmed, the next act of VinFast’s India story had already begun taking shape in Tamil Nadu months earlier.

To choose a location for its plant, the company surveyed fifteen sites across six states. Tamil Nadu, with its manufacturing-ready infrastructure and active support for green mobility initiatives, rose to the top. What happened next showed how the brand like to act. And it’s right there in the name: Fast.

In late February 2024, when the groundbreaking ceremony began on a sun soaked, low lying tract of land near Thoothukudi, the site was still empty. By Aug 4, 2025, it housed India’s newest electric vehicle factory, a 400-acre complex with body shop, paint shop, general assembly, logistics warehouse, and supplier-ready zones.

“We entered India with nothing,” CEO Pham Sanh Chau said at the inauguration ceremony. “No land. No factory. No team. The only thing we had was a deep resolve and a belief that this area could become a leading hub for electric vehicles and auto components in South Asia.” He gestured to the plant behind him. “In just fifteen months, we transformed this land into a modern, highly-automated factory.”

When the first VF 6 and VF 7 rolled out that morning, they were the first VinFast vehicles to be made-in-India, by the hands and minds of Indian people, for Indian customers. “They are a symbol of the aspirations and resilience of the Indian people as they reach for a better, cleaner future,” Chau said.

The plant is expected to create 3,000-3,500 direct jobs and several thousand more across the supply chain as auxiliary partners move into the region. Suppliers have already expressed readiness to relocate workshops near the factory, a sign of confidence in Thoothukudi’s rise as an automotive production base.

In parallel, VinFast’s India team has moved quickly to build the retail and service backbone that can make or break an EV brand in this market. By end of 2025, the company had opened 35 dealerships, stretching from Delhi, Gurugram and Noida in the north to Mumbai, Pune, Chennai, Bengaluru, Kochi and Hyderabad.

Yet the most unusual part of the ecosystem lies in aftersales support. VinFast partnered with RoadGrid, myTVS and Global Assure with the aim of creating a full-fledged third-party service centers before the first customer deliveries. Global Assure will operate a round the clock helpline, roadside assistance and mobile service. RoadGrid and myTVS will handle charging, maintenance and diagnostics, including support in areas where VinFast does not yet have a showroom.

For a country where questions about EV service often outweigh questions about EV design, this infrastructure may prove decisive.

Financing, long a barrier for EV adoption in India, has also been addressed through agreements with major banks including HDFC Bank, Yes Bank, Axis Bank, and others. These arrangements offer everything from dealer inventory financing to 100 percent on-road customer loans, with bank officers stationed directly in showrooms for simplified approval.

“This is how you support an EV transition,” one banker at the Chennai showroom launch said. “You do not just sell cars. You build systems.”

And in the months since customer deliveries began, VinFast has quietly climbed into the ranks of India’s top electric vehicle brands. Industry registration data shows the company already placing among the country’s top 10 EV brands, a notable shift for a name that was unfamiliar to most Indians at the start of the year. Its early momentum, built on steady deliveries and expanding visibility on the roads, has reinforced what many analysts have begun to observe.

“I love one thing about Vingroup,” Swati says. “They know what they are doing. And if they have a plant in India, people will think you are not going to just sell the product and leave.” She adds, “In India, if you give good price, good range, and good service, the customers are yours.”

Why this first year matters

The rollout of Made-in-India VF 6 and VF 7 has already begun shifting industry perception. In April 2025, ABP Live named the VF 7 “Most Awaited New Car,” praising its design and advanced features. At the Jagran Hi-Tech Awards later in the year, VinFast was named “EV Manufacturer of the Year”, and the VF 7 won “EV Disruptor of the Year”.

“VinFast embodies the spirit of innovation and progress driving India’s EV transformation,” said Jagran’s auto editor Arjit Garg. He commented that the company has displayed a rare clarity of direction for a newcomer and a “people-first vision” that aligns with India’s long-term mobility goals.

VinFast’s long-term commitment became even more visible on Dec 4, 2025, when VinFast signed a new MOU with the Government of Tamil Nadu to expand its Thoothukudi facility by an additional 200 hectares. The second-phase investment will add production lines for electric buses, e-scooters and charging infrastructure, deepening localization and strengthening India’s emergence as a regional manufacturing hub. For many observers, the expansion underscored that the company’s commitment runs far beyond its initial launch.

With the factory inaugurated, dealerships opening, service networks activating and customers already booking, VinFast enters 2026 as a steady companion in India’s electric transition, intent on growing with the country.

Indian visitors to Vietnam say the brand’s trajectory feels familiar yet refreshing. Piyush, a journalist and content creator, thinks back to the sight of VinFast cars filling Vietnam’s streets. “I can imagine something similar happening in India,” he says. “Maybe after five or six years.”

Mr. Nguyen Nam Tien, CEO of V-Green India (left), and Mr. Deepesh Shrinath, CEO of RoadGrid India, at the signing ceremony

Under the partnership, RoadGrid will deploy fast charging stations at high-visibility and high-demand locations across India, including retail outlets operated by Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL), Smart Cities zones, and other strategic sites on a pan-India basis. This deployment supports V-GREEN’s objective of establishing a comprehensive, reliable, and high-performance EV charging network in the country.

V-GREEN will lead the ownership, software integration, and overall management of the charging ecosystem, while RoadGrid will support execution through site identification, local liaising, approvals management, coordination with stakeholders, and on-ground operations and maintenance support.

V-GREEN brings strong global experience in developing and operating large-scale EV charging infrastructure, while RoadGrid contributes deep local execution capabilities and market knowledge tailored to Indian conditions. Together, the companies aim to ensure faster rollout, high uptime, and a seamless charging experience across urban centres, highways, and emerging EV corridors.

The partnership reflects the shared commitment of V-GREEN and RoadGrid to support India’s energy transition by strengthening fast charging infrastructure, improving EV adoption readiness, and building long-term confidence among EV consumers. RoadGrid previously signed a strategic MOU with global EV manufacturer VinFast to develop 120 electric vehicle service workshops in India, further reinforcing the role of this collaboration in supporting VinFast’s growth.

V-GREEN was founded by VinFast founder Mr. Pham Nhat Vuong, with the goal of investing in and developing charging infrastructure systems to provide support for VinFast’s rapid global expansion, with India as one of the key markets. In Vietnam, V-GREEN has established its pioneering position and capabilities by operating approximately 150,000 charging ports nationwide and continuously partnering with multiple collaborators to expand its network.

About V-GREEN
V-GREEN, the Global EV Charging Station Development Company, was established by billionaire Pham Nhat Vuong, the founder of VinFast. The company is focused on building an extensive charging network for VinFast electric vehicles with more than 150,000 charging ports across Vietnam. V-GREEN has also established a presence in Indonesia and the Philippines, and is actively pursuing expansion into other promising international markets.

Guided by the mission “For a Green Future for Everyone,” V-GREEN envisions becoming a global pioneer in green infrastructure, offering smart, convenient, and flexible charging solutions. Learn more at www.vgreen.net.

About RoadGrid India Private Limited
RoadGrid is a technology company that is pioneering the development of Patented Universal EV Chargers, developing a cloud-based software to transform the experience of EV charging, and creating a charging station ecosystem to drive the growth of EV led clean mobility. Road Grid has the vision to make EV charging universal, ubiquitous and available to everyone everywhere, in India and Globally.

RoadGrid is on a mission to transform EV charging with technology and create the largest charging network of its kind in India and the world to achieve its vision.

Mr. Nguyen Nam Tien, CEO of V-GREEN India (left), and Mr. Kushal Kumar Banerjee, CGM – Retail Strategy & BD, HPCL, at the signing ceremony

HPCL is one of India’s largest state-owned oil and gas corporations, operating over 24,400 Retail Outlets nationwide and running over 5,300 Electric Vehicle Charging Stations under HP e-Charge brand.

The agreement holds strategic significance as India accelerates its transition toward green transportation. HPvinfaCL’s existing Retail Outlet footprint provides a strong platform for accelerated EV charging infrastructure deployment and seamless nationwide expansion.

V-GREEN Global Charging Station Development Company, Vietnam was founded by VinFast founder, Mr. Pham Nhat Vuong, with the goal of investing in and developing charging infrastructure systems to provide support for VinFast’s rapid global expansion, with India as one of its key markets. In Vietnam, V-GREEN has established its pioneering position and capabilities by operating approximately 150,000 charging ports nationwide and continuously partnering with multiple collaborators to expand its network.

The cooperation with HPCL represents the next step in the collective efforts of V-GREEN, VinFast and their partners in India to build a comprehensive EV ecosystem encompassing manufacturing, charging infrastructure, after-sales services, and battery recycling. This is regarded as an important foundation for realizing the goal of widespread electric vehicle adoption and promoting sustainable transportation in the world’s third largest automotive market.

About V-GREEN

V-GREEN, the Global EV Charging Station Development Company, was established by billionaire Pham Nhat Vuong, the founder of VinFast. The company is focused on building an extensive charging network for VinFast electric vehicles with more than 150,000 charging ports across Vietnam. V-GREEN has also established a presence in Indonesia and the Philippines, and is actively pursuing expansion into other promising international markets.

Guided by the mission “For a Green Future for Everyone,” V-GREEN envisions becoming a global pioneer in green infrastructure, offering smart, convenient, and flexible charging solutions.

Learn more at vgreen.net

About Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited

Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) is a Maharatna Central Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Government of India. It is engaged in the refining, distribution and marketing of petroleum products and operates an extensive network of refineries, terminals, pipelines and over 24,400 retail outlets across India. HPCL is committed to innovation, sustainability and customer service, and is actively expanding its footprint in emerging sectors such as electric mobility and renewable energy.

As part of its energy transition strategy and capability to pivot as per Market demand and support cleaner form of energy, HPCL is actively diversifying into alternate energy sources with a strong focus on electric mobility. The company is expanding its EV charging infrastructure across the country, including highway corridors and urban centres. HPCL aims to support India’s shift towards cleaner transportation while enhancing customer convenience and sustainability. HPCL currently has a network of over 5,300 EV Charging Stations under HP e-Charge brand and more than 150 Battery Swapping Stations across the country.

Truck vehicle with trailers background 

While purchasing provides ownership and long-term cost savings, leasing offers flexibility, fixed expenses, and ready access to newer models. Understanding the financial and operational impacts of each option is essential for any company looking to minimise cost while ensuring business productivity.

Benefits of Leasing vs. Buying Commercial Vehicles in India  
Buying a commercial vehicle entails complete ownership. The company either pays cash for it or takes a loan, after which the commercial vehicle becomes an asset on the firm's balance sheet. Additionally, ownership involves total control over usage, maintenance cycles, and possible alterations to meet business requirements.  

On the other hand, leasing is similar to renting a truck for a specified period, typically 2 to 5 years. The company makes periodic fixed monthly payments, possibly with maintenance and repair services, minimising the threat of unforeseen costs. This model offers operating flexibility and low, fixed costs, which attract companies with less cash flow or economic volatility.

Key Cost Components of Owning a Commercial Vehicle
Purchasing one or more commercial vehicles is a major investment. From financing and insurance to maintenance and depreciation, every aspect contributes to shaping the total cost and profitability of running a fleet. Here are the key cost components: 

• Initial Purchase Price

The initial purchase cost serves as the basis for ownership expenses. It encompasses the total price of the vehicle or down payment when financing with a loan. Although a lower initial price is desirable, one must also consider the vehicle's reliability, effectiveness, and long-term durability. 

A higher-cost but more effective and reliable vehicle can reduce running costs in the long run. The purchase cost also affects other monetary factors, such as depreciation and insurance premiums.

• EMI Payments or Loan Interest

Monthly EMI payments and interest have a substantial impact on total spending for businesses that buy commercial vehicles on finance. The loan period, interest rate, and down payment percentage determine the overall cost incurred above the vehicle's base price. 
For example, a Rs. 10 lakh loan taken at 9% interest for five years incurs an additional interest of around Rs. 2.4 lakh. 

• Commercial Vehicle Insurance

Insurance is not only mandatory under the Motor Vehicles Act but also an important financial protection. Commercial vehicle insurance guards against damage, theft, and third-party claims. Premiums vary according to vehicle type, usage, engine power, and coverage type. Opting for an insurance plan provides financial stability and peace of mind in the event of mishaps. 

• Maintenance and Repairs

Maintenance and repair costs form a major portion of recurring ownership expenses. Regular maintenance, component replacement, and unexpected repairs ensure vehicles are running safely and in optimal condition. 

• Depreciation

Depreciation is the decline in a vehicle's market value over time and is one of the most significant components of TCO calculation. Commercial vehicles in India usually depreciate by 15–20% in the first few years, depending on usage and maintenance, and after five years, the residual value is typically negotiated between the owner and the insurer. 

• Taxes and Permits

All commercial vehicles in India are subject to state-specific taxation and permit regulations. Such taxes and permits include road tax, registration charges, and commercial permits, which differ from state to state. In addition, vehicles are subject to periodic costs such as pollution testing, green tax, and fitness certification after 15 years of service. 

Key Cost Components of Renting or Leasing Commercial Vehicles
Discussed below are the primary cost components associated with leasing or renting commercial vehicles:

• Monthly Lease/Rental Payments

Monthly rental or lease payments constitute the bulk of commercial truck leasing charges. Payments are usually fixed, allowing businesses to better control budgets. However, rates vary depending on vehicle type, lease term, and mileage restrictions. Hence, it is vital to compare prior to agreeing to contracts.

• Insurance under Rental Agreements

Insurance coverage is generally required under most rental or leasing agreements. Based on the policies of the leasing company, you can go for third-party commercial insurance or comprehensive truck insurance.  

The former covers damages to third-party vehicles and property, while comprehensive insurance provides financial security in case of accidents, theft, or damage to your own vehicle, as well as third-party liability. 

Additionally, in some cases, commercial insurance may be bundled into the leasing costs. Thus, it’s crucial to check the components of your lease payments before opting for an agreement. 

• Maintenance and Downtime Costs

Maintenance is frequently included in the leasing company, which lessens the financial burden on companies. However, unplanned downtime or slow repair can still affect productivity and contribute to indirect losses. Having a rental partner with effective maintenance assistance and replacement vehicle facilities can reduce these problems.

• No Depreciation or Market Risk

One of the key financial benefits of leasing or renting commercial vehicles is the lack of depreciation and resale risks. Companies can upgrade or return vehicles at the end of the lease period without concern for asset value decrease or market volatility. This gives way to more agile fleet management and cost predictability.

• Hidden or End-of-Term Costs

Though leasing might seem economical in the beginning, there can be extra costs in the form of excess mileage charges, wear-and-tear charges, or administration fees that raise the overall bill. Careful reading of the lease contract helps avoid any shocks at the time of renewal and enables more effective management of commercial vehicle rental charges.

Cost Comparison: Renting vs Buying Commercial Vehicles

When deciding between buying and renting commercial vehicles, businesses need to weigh financial flexibility against long-term value. The comparison below highlights the key cost factors for both options in simple terms:

From the above discussions, hopefully, you have gotten your answer on the effectiveness of renting vs buying commercial vehicles. Purchase when your trucks operate set routes every day, and you prefer ownership and long-term retention. On the other hand, lease when flexibility, stable monthly expenses, and access to newer fleets are most important. 

India is at the center of VinFast’s new global strategy

At the center of that transformation stands VinFast. In October 2025 the company delivered 20,380 vehicles, raising its year-to-date total to 124,264 — a new monthly record and a milestone few expected from a brand barely a decade old. Its pivot to fully electric production began just over two years ago, yet it has already reshaped what Vietnamese consumers see as possible.

Government support for the green transition has eased the way, with electric vehicles exempt from registration fees until 2027. Yet much of the progress reflects the determination of Pham Nhat Vuong, Vingroup’s founder and VinFast’s driving force. His push for global expansion is seen as both national ambition and corporate vision. For Vuong, Vietnam’s industrial rise and VinFast’s success are inseparable, a sentiment he has repeated publicly, including his assertion that VinFast is a devotion project rather than a profit-seeking venture.

Demand, policy, and leadership have aligned, but not by accident. In Vietnam, that orchestration comes from Vingroup. Vuong began modestly, founding a small food company in Kharkiv, Ukraine, in 1993. After selling it, he returned home and built Vingroup into a powerhouse that today spans real estate, hospitality, healthcare, education, green energy, and advanced technology.

In 2024, Vingroup paid more than VND 56.2 trillion in taxes, making it Vietnam’s top private taxpayer. The group now spans Vinhomes, Vinmec, VinEnergo, VinUni, and a growing portfolio of technology subsidiaries working in robotics, AI, and mobility. It has reshaped skylines, raised healthcare standards, and expanded educational access. With VinFast, it is now challenging the boundaries of Vietnam’s industrial potential.

Underlying all of this is a single philosophy: to create a better life for people. In recent years, that principle has guided Vingroup’s broader pivot toward clean energy, digital systems, and sustainable mobility. Capital once tied to real estate has moved into renewables and transport, redefining Vingroup from property titan to champion of the energy transition.

Vingroup’s Arsenal for VinFast’s Ascent
VinFast’s success is built on more than its cars. Its real advantage lies in the infrastructure Vingroup has spent years assembling, land, energy, software, and logistics that work together as one. When these elements align, they reduce friction and form a foundation few competitors can easily copy.

Real estate provides the first advantage. Vinhomes properties double as host sites for charging stations, with many areas equipped with EV terminals. The advantage is clear, location control, captive users, and reduced permitting friction. Vingroup also uses its residential developments to promote sustainable habits, offering vouchers and parking incentives for VinFast car and scooter owners. In doing so, it turns residents into early adopters and advocates for electric mobility.

Technology is the second pillar. VinFast draws heavily on the group’s research centers, which developed innovations such as the ViVi 2.0 voice assistant and MirrorSense, an AI-based mirror-adjustment system recognized at CES 2024. These shared platforms strengthen VinFast’s in-house capabilities and keep the user experience consistent across products.

Energy supply forms the third layer. In 2025, VinEnergo agreed to provide nearly 50 million kWh of solar power and battery storage to VinFast’s Hai Phong complex, cutting carbon emissions by roughly 33,000 tons a year. Cleaner power not only lowers costs but also ensures each vehicle’s footprint stays small from factory-floor to highway.

Charging completes the loop. Established in 2024, V-Green, founded by Vuong himself, was created to build a worldwide charging network for VinFast and its partners. It has since expanded through cooperation in multiple Asian markets and continues to form the backbone of VinFast’s infrastructure rollouts overseas.

Each of these components reinforces the others. Real estate anchors the network. Technology improves usability. Renewable energy reduces costs and emissions. Together, they give VinFast the foundation to pursue long-term global goals rather than chase quarterly targets.

Exporting the Playbook: Global Ambitions and Soft-Power Gains
VinFast’s ambitions reach far beyond Vietnam. Nowhere is this more evident than in India, where the company is building not just a distribution footprint but a full-scale EV ecosystem tailored to one of the world’s fastest-growing automobile markets.

India is at the center of VinFast’s new global strategy. In February 2024, the company broke ground on its first India plant in Tamil Nadu, and by August 2025 it had officially inaugurated the facility in Thoothukudi. The site spans 400 acres with an initial capacity of 50,000 vehicles per year, scalable to 150,000, and is designed to serve both the domestic market and export routes.

VinFast has moved quickly to build customer-facing infrastructure. As of November 2025, the company already has 24 operational dealerships across key metropolitan and tier-one cities, with plans to reach 35 by the end of 2025. These showrooms introduce the premium VF 6 and VF 7, both of which have received strong early reception, including two major awards at the 2025 Jagran Hi-Tech Awards, where VinFast was named EV Manufacturer of the Year and the VF 7 received the EV Disruptor of the Year title.

Financing has also become a strategic pillar in India. In October 2025, VinFast signed a memorandum of understanding with YES BANK, India’s sixth-largest private-sector bank, to deliver retail and inventory-financing solutions for both customers and dealers. The partnership includes on-site bank representatives at every showroom, attractive interest rates, flexible repayment options, full on-road funding, and nationwide reach through YES BANK’s branch network. The aim of such a tie-up, not the first nor the last for VinFast India, is to lower barriers to EV ownership in a market where up-front cost remains a primary hesitation.

To address after-sales concerns, VinFast has partnered with service and charging-infrastructure providers including RoadGrid, myTVS, and Global Assure, creating a national maintenance and roadside-support backbone. It has also teamed up with BatX Energies to establish a circular battery-value chain and support advanced battery recycling, reinforcing India’s push toward sustainable electrification.

Charging infrastructure is expanding in parallel. V-Green is coordinating a multiyear plan to deploy a nationwide network in India similar to its rollout strategies in Vietnam and Indonesia. The objective is to ensure that the availability of public and semi-public charging keeps pace with the rising dealership footprint and the growth of VinFast’s fleet.

Each of these actions follows a consistent logic, combine manufacturing, charging, finance, and service under one coordinated framework, then scale. For VinFast, exporting cars is only part of the story. The larger aim is to export a vertically integrated mobility ecosystem, one that thrives where policy support, infrastructure rollout, and customer appetite align.

At home, Vietnam’s streets already show the results, quiet electric taxis replacing combustion fleets, chargers replacing fuel pumps, and consumers choosing local innovation over imports. Abroad, VinFast is applying the same playbook, pairing cars with infrastructure, financing, and service networks to make electric driving viable at scale.

But VinFast’s global push is not just about cars. It rests on the financial backing and broad ecosystem of Vingroup, and on Pham Nhat Vuong’s conviction that Vietnam can compete head-to-head with established automakers. His willingness to marshal resources across real estate, retail, energy, and technology has given VinFast the stability and integrated platform most young automakers lack. That combination, capital, ecosystem, and vision, is what sets VinFast apart.

Hon'ble Union Minister Dr Virender Kumar, Hon'ble Minister of State Shri B L Verma, Additional Secretary (DEPwD) Smt Manmeet Kaur Nanda and ALIMCO CMD Shri Praveen Kumar 

Union Minister for Social Justice & Empowerment, Dr. Virendra Kumar as the Chief Guest witnessed the unveiling of ALIMCO’s new corporate identity designed by NID Ahmedabad, alongside two cutting-edge products: a 3-Wheeler EV Scooter and a Clip-On Motorised Wheelchair Device.

New Era of Tech-Driven Inclusion The newly launched 3-Wheeler EV Scooter offers a safe, eco-friendly, and rugged mobility solution designed specifically for the Indian terrain, while the Clip-On Motorised Device is a game-changer that converts a standard manual wheelchair into a motorised vehicle within seconds, offering affordable independence to users.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Virendra Kumar reflected on ALIMCO’s transformative journey, stating that in its 53 years of service, the organisation has grown from a manufacturing unit into a national institution that symbolises innovation with empathy. He noted that under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, more than 32 lakh Divyang beneficiaries have been supported through various government initiatives, and ALIMCO continues to play a pivotal role in ensuring that high-quality assistive devices reach every deserving individual across the country.

Shri B. L. Verma, Minister of State for Social Justice & Empowerment, described the occasion as more than a milestone, calling it a celebration of compassion and collective purpose. He observed that the newly launched devices are not merely products of engineering but powerful enablers of independence, dignity and mobility, reflecting India’s growing leadership in inclusive and accessible technology.

At the heart of the occasion was the deeply moving address delivered by Smt Manmeet Kaur Nanda, Additional Secretary, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, who highlighted that ALIMCO must be viewed not just as a production organisation, but as a living institution that carries forward India’s vision of self-reliance, inclusion and social justice.

She described the day as one of profound significance, with the unveiling of the new logo and the launch of the two mobility innovations marking a new chapter in ALIMCO’s journey. She spoke of how the organisation’s work is ultimately defined not by machines, but by the lives it touches.

Recalling the stories showcased in the film presented during the programme, she referred to Ms. Sarita Trivedi, a triple amputee and an inspiration to the nation in the field of art, and a BSF officer who, despite the loss of his limbs and medical advice to withdraw from active life, went on to defeat the World No. 1 para-badminton player from Indonesia.

Sharing the officer’s words with the audience, she said, “Limbs are optional, but courage is compulsory.”

She further highlighted ALIMCO’s forward-looking vision, including collaboration with over 80 start-ups, technology transfer agreements, expansion into AI-assisted and smart digital assistive technologies, and the development of advanced, affordable and high-quality aids and appliances for persons with disabilities across the country.

Introducing the new corporate identity, Shri Praveen Kumar, Chairman and Managing Director, ALIMCO, said the new purple logo symbolises dignity, inclusion and engineering brilliance, reflecting the organisation’s renewed focus on modern solutions, faster delivery and enhanced impact.

He added that with the integration of EV mobility, advanced prosthetics and next-generation assistive devices, ALIMCO is better positioned than ever to respond to emerging needs with quality, sensitivity and speed.

The celebration concluded with a showcase of ALIMCO’s modernization drive and a cultural performance by internationally acclaimed autistic artist Master Devansh, reinforcing the spirit of "Sashakt Bharat."

Mr. Luu Thanh Toi, Director, VinFast India Plant, received the “EV Maker of the Year” award from Jagran New Media, & Shri Harsh Malhotra, Union MoS, MCA & MoRTH

The Jagran Hi-Tech Awards brings together the voices of key experts and strategists, and has long been regarded as a respected benchmark that recognizes innovation and achievements in India’s technology and automotive sectors.

Mr. Luu Thanh Toi, Director, VinFast India Plant, received the “EV Disruptor of the Year” award from Jagran New Media and Mr. Heera Lal-IAS, Secretary, National Integration

Being named “EV Manufacturer of the Year” highlights VinFast’s role and contribution in redefining the future of sustainable mobility through design, technology and innovation.

These two awards also reflect the well-deserved recognition from India’s expert community for both VinFast and the VF 7 model. In a short period of time, the Vietnamese automaker has become one of the most promising names in India’s electric vehicle market. VinFast’s mark is shown through its long term vision and its commitment to offering high quality and accessible electric vehicles for all customers.

Mr. Pham Sanh Chau, CEO of VinFast Asia, said, “We are truly honoured to receive this recognition at the Jagran Hi-Tech Awards. It reflects how far VinFast has come in such a short span in India, and we are deeply grateful for the trust and enthusiasm our customers have shown. The positive market response and growing confidence in our electric SUVs, the VF 6 and VF 7, reaffirm that India is ready for the next era of mobility. We are excited to build on this momentum as we expand our network, strengthen local operations, and deliver world-class EV experiences to customers across the country.”

Mr. Arjit Garg, Editor - Auto, Jagran New Media, said: “VinFast embodies the spirit of innovation and progress driving India’s EV transformation. Its rapid strides in technology, design, and sustainability make it both a disruptor and a global leader shaping the future of electric mobility. As the only EV manufacturer to inaugurate its plant in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu this year, the brand has made huge strides in the Indian mobility space with its people-first vision and its long-term investment roadmap. Therefore, the laurels handed over today of the ‘EV Manufacturer of the Year’ and the newly launched ‘VF 7’ as the ‘EV Disruptor of the Year’ are truly deserved.”

As VinFast accelerates its India operations, the company continues to build a comprehensive EV ecosystem that integrates retail, charging, and after-sales services to ensure a seamless customer experience. With 24 operational dealerships across key cities and plans to expand to 35 by the end of CY2025, VinFast is strengthening its nationwide presence and bringing premium electric mobility closer to customers.

Central to this growth is VinFast’s state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, spread across 400 acres. In its first phase, the facility will assemble the VF 6 and VF 7 models with an initial capacity of 50,000 vehicles per year, scalable up to 150,000 units. 

VinFast has built a robust ecosystem for delightful ownership experience. The company has built strategic partnerships with leading banks and financial institutions to offer tailored financing solutions. Strategic collaborations with RoadGrid, myTVS, and Global Assure are helping establish a nationwide network for charging and after-sales services. Furthering its commitment to sustainability, VinFast has also joined hands with BatX Energies for advanced battery recycling to create a circular battery value chain. Together, these initiatives reflect the company’s vision of shaping a greener future through responsible and innovative practices.

With a steadfast focus on innovation, sustainability, and customer-centric design, VinFast continues to advance its mission of accelerating the transition to clean mobility while shaping a greener, more inclusive future for India’s automotive industry.

About VinFast
VinFast (NASDAQ: VFS), a subsidiary of Vingroup JSC, one of Vietnam’s largest conglomerates, is a pure-play electric vehicle (“EV”) manufacturer with the mission of making EVs accessible to everyone. VinFast’s product lineup today includes a wide range of electric SUVs, e-scooters, and e-buses. 

VinFast is currently embarking on its next growth phase through rapid expansion of its distribution and dealership network globally and increasing its manufacturing capacities with a focus on key markets across North America, Europe, the Middle East and Asia.

Learn more at: vinfastauto.in

About Jagran Hi-tech awards 
The Jagran Hi-Tech Awards is an annual flagship event hosted by Jagran New Media, the digital arm of Jagran Prakashan, celebrating excellence in the technology and automobile sectors. Supported by major industry partners, the Jagran Hi-Tech Awards serve as a prestigious platform that recognizes visionaries shaping a smarter, more sustainable technological future in India. The event gathers industry leaders, influencers, and stakeholders to honor pioneering products and personalities that have shaped the auto-tech landscape in India.

Learn more at: event.jagran.com/events/hitech-awards

India has only recently welcomed the VF 7, but local reviews already show favorable feedback

Early one October morning in Hanoi, automotive YouTuber Nguyen Thanh Hai, known to his followers as Hai Kar, packed his VinFast VF 7 and began an extraordinary journey. His plan is to drive from Vietnam to Africa, passing through thirty countries across Asia and Europe before reaching Morocco. The trip, expected to take several months, covers about fifty thousand kilometers. It is one of the first attempts by a Vietnamese driver to cross continents in a made in Vietnam electric car.

A car built for adaptation

Hai’s VF 7 is a standard production vehicle. Before setting off, he fitted a roof rack, rally tires and a tow cable, then added a few essentials such as charging adapters, a small generator and translation tools for unfamiliar regions. His car can travel more than four hundred kilometers on a full charge and has enough power to manage highways and mountain roads. A few weeks into the journey, he is now somewhere in China, heading west.

The VF 7 already attracts attention at home in Vietnam among long distance drivers. Owners who have traveled from Hanoi to Ca Mau praise its solid handling, smooth ride and consistent performance across varied terrain. Fast charging from near empty to seventy percent takes about half an hour, which turns long trips into a sequence of short breaks rather than slow, painful stops.

What makes Hai’s trip remarkable is how ordinary the car is. It was designed for daily life such as commuting, errands and short weekends, yet it is handling a route that stretches from Asia to Africa.

India’s early look at the VF 7

India has only recently welcomed the VF 7, but local reviews already show favorable feedback. One buyer in Lucknow, who is 6’4, cancelled his booking with another brand after realising the VF 7 simply felt better inside⁽¹⁾. Plus, both the vehicle and battery warranty is generous at 10 years or 2 lakh kilometres. He took delivery in Jaipur and drove the car home to Lucknow, and during that stretch he found the VF 7 steady at speed and easy to place when overtaking, while city crawling felt calm and predictable. "I am satisfied with the car", he said after crossing the one thousand kilometre mark, addng that he gave it "9.5 out of 10."

The VF7 arrives just as India’s charging network begins to expand for a larger EV audience. VinFast is preparing its own ecosystem alongside this, supported by partners in each key area, such as myTVS (authorised service centres), Global Assure (roadside assistance), and banks like SBI (financing for both customers and dealers). Together these pieces form a full EV ecosystem that covers finance, home and public charging, service coverage, and the other tools needed for day to day use.

What this means for Indian drivers

Once more chargers appear along the major national highways, long distance EV journeys will be much easier. A normal India trip such as Bengaluru to Goa or Delhi to Nainital could eventually feel as simple as Hai Kar recharging his VF 7 on his road to Africa. Drivers will stop for chai or lunch while the car picks up enough range to continue.

Hai’s journey continues to unfold across continents. Each update he posts is another tiny demonstration of how electric travel keeps expanding its reach. And for Indian drivers watching Hai Kar’s trip from afar, it hints at a future where a quiet, clean road trip from one state to another becomes an ordinary weekend plan rather than a brave experiment.

About VinFast

VinFast (NASDAQ: VFS), a subsidiary of Vingroup JSC, one of Vietnam's largest conglomerates, is a pure-play electric vehicle manufacturer with the mission of making EVs accessible to everyone. VinFast's product lineup includes a wide range of electric SUVs, e-scooters, and e-buses. The company is rapidly expanding its global distribution network and manufacturing capabilities with facilities in Vietnam, India, and planned operations in the United States.

The company's Thoothukudi facility in Tamil Nadu represents a $500 million investment and will produce 150,000 vehicles annually when fully operational, creating approximately 3,500 direct jobs.

Learn more at:vinfastauto.in.

Mr. Pham Sanh Chau (right), CEO of VinFast Asia, and Mr. Sumit Bali, Country Head Retail Assets and Debt Management at YES BANK, at the signing ceremony

Under the dealer finance tie-up, YES BANK will extend financing to VinFast dealers on favorable terms. The retail finance agreement will also offer a wide range of customer benefits, including attractive interest rates, flexible repayment options, 100% on-road funding, exclusive offers, and priority services—applicable across VinFast’s entire product portfolio. YES BANK representatives will be available at all VinFast showrooms to provide on-site support, making EV ownership more accessible and convenient for Indian consumers.

The collaboration enables VinFast to leverage YES BANK’s extensive pan-India branch network and digital platforms to reach customers across both urban and emerging markets. It also aligns with the company’s broader goal of accelerating the adoption of sustainable transportation solutions in India, one of the fastest-growing EV markets globally.

The MoU was signed by Mr. Pham Sanh Chau, CEO of VinFast Asia, along with Mr. Sumit Bali Country Head Retail Assets and Debt Management, YES BANK, and Mr. Amit Labroo Business Head Wheels and Rural Banking, at YES BANK.

Mr. Pham Sanh Chau, CEO of VinFast Asia, shared, “The shift to electric mobility succeeds when customers and dealers have the right tools and support. Our partnership with YES BANK is a step towards building that ecosystem, providing hassle free financing solutions that make it easier for dealers to manage inventory and for customers to access our EVs. By working together, we are ensuring a smoother ownership experience and making EV adoption more reassuring for our customers, while advancing India’s path toward greener transportation.”

Commenting on the collaboration, Mr.­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­ Sumit Bali, Country Head Retail Assets and Debt Management, YES BANK, said, “As EV adoption accelerates, access to financing will play a vital role in driving this transition. Our collaboration with VinFast will offer customers convenient credit solutions tailored to its premium EV lineup, reflecting the Bank’s broader commitment to sustainability. Such partnerships also help us empower our customers to achieve their green mobility aspirations with ease.”

VinFast recently launched its premium VF 6 and VF 7 models in India and this partnership highlights the company’s ongoing efforts to establish a strong and customer-focused footprint in the country. The brand has also recently inaugurated its EV assembly plant in Tamil Nadu, marking a significant milestone in its long-term growth strategy.

About VinFast

VinFast (NASDAQ: VFS), a subsidiary of Vingroup JSC, one of Vietnam’s largest conglomerates, is a pure-play electric vehicle (“EV”) manufacturer with the mission of making EVs accessible to everyone. VinFast’s product lineup today includes a wide range of electric SUVs, e-scooters, and e-buses. 

VinFast is currently embarking on its next growth phase through rapid expansion of its distribution and dealership network globally and increasing its manufacturing capacities with a focus on key markets across North America, Europe, the Middle East and Asia.

Learn more at: vinfastauto.in.

About YES BANK

YES BANK, a full-service commercial bank headquartered in Mumbai, offers a wide array of products, services, and digital solutions, catering to Retail, MSME, and Corporate clients. The Bank operates its Brokerage business through YES SECURITIES, asubsidiary of the Bank. The Bank has a pan-India presence including an International Banking Unit (IBU) at GIFT City, and a Representative Office in Abu Dhabi.

For more information, please visit the Bank's website at www.yesbank.in.

VinFast has inaugurated a new EV assembly plant in Tamil Nadu, with an initial capacity of 50,000 vehicles each year, including models tailored for local drivers

Not long ago, Vingroup’s name in Vietnam was synonymous with property and shopping malls. Today, it stands on five strategic pillars: Industrials & Technology, Real Estate & Services, Infrastructure, Green Energy, and Social Enterprises. The expansion reflects a larger vision to align business success with the broader social responsibility. Founder and Chairman Pham Nhat Vuong’s guiding words still define the company’s philosophy: “Whatever benefits society and many people, and we have the capacity to do it, we will make it happen.”

In the cities Vingroup develops, glass and steel are only part of the story. Its projects include parks, lakes and tree-lined streets that breathe new life into dense urban landscapes. At TechnoPark Tower in Hanoi, nearly 3,000 sensors manage lighting and air systems that reduce energy use by more than 17 percent each year. The tower has become a model of what urban design can look like when technology serves both comfort and conservation. Vinhomes developments follow the same logic: modern living balanced with green surroundings and renewable-energy integration.

Progress also runs on wheels. VinFast, Vingroup’s electric-vehicle manufacturer, is changing how people move. In just nine months of 2025, the company delivered more than 100,000 electric cars, cementing its top position in Vietnam’s autoindustry. The achievement marks not only commercial success but a shift in consumer confidence toward clean mobility in the country.

And VinFast is taking Vingroup’s green mission abroad. In India, the company has inaugurated a new EV assembly plant in Tamil Nadu, with an initial capacity of 50,000 vehicles each year, including models tailored for local drivers. VinFast has also secured local banking and service partnerships to support financing, maintenance, and charging capabilities. For India this means new jobs and cleaner air. For Vingroup this means that its green mission travels well.

As the automotive business accelerates, Vingroup’s energy and infrastructure divisions are taking shape as the foundation of a wider green ecosystem. The company is developing large solar farms, wind-power projects and battery-storage systems across Vietnam and Southeast Asia. Each project aims to strengthen energy security while reducing dependence on fossil fuels. At the same time, new infrastructure investments are linking cities and ports through sustainable transport corridors, creating the physical framework for an economy built on clean power.

Each part of the Vingroup ecosystem supports the others. Electric vehicles depend on renewable power, renewable projects rely on modern infrastructure and green cities provide the living environments where these changes can take hold. Together they form a system that moves Vietnam closer to its goal of net-zero emissions by 2050. It is an approach that transforms corporate responsibility into national development.

Momentum continues to build. In 2024, Vingroup paid more than VND56.2 trillion in taxes and state-budget contributions, making it the largest private contributor in Vietnam. That figure accounted for nearly 40 percent of the contributions from the top ten enterprises.

Across its businesses, from electric cars to clean energy, from smart cities to modern transport, Vingroup’s mission is consistent. It is building not just for today’s profit, but for a future where Vietnam grows cleaner, stronger and more connected to the world.

About VinFast

VinFast (NASDAQ: VFS), a subsidiary of Vingroup JSC, one of Vietnam’s largest conglomerates, is a pure-play electric vehicle (“EV”) manufacturer with the mission of making EVs accessible to everyone. VinFast’s product lineup today includes a wide range of electric SUVs, e-scooters, and e-buses.

VinFast is currently embarking on its next growth phase through rapid expansion of its distribution and dealership network globally and increasing its manufacturing capacities with a focus on key markets across North America, Europe and Asia.

Learn more at: vinfastauto.in.

VinFast equips its VF 6 and VF 7 with LFP battery cells, known for thermal stability, and a battery management system that balances charging and discharging for longevity

The numbers tell a story of momentum
India registered 115,800 electric four-wheelers in fiscal year 2024-25, about 15 percent more than the year before. That number signals perhaps the largest wave of households shifting from petrol to electric cars so far. The rise is exciting, but buying an EV is only the beginning. Owning one means new habits, from the way people drive to how they plan trips and maintain the vehicle. Automakers like VinFast are responding by building features into their cars that help new drivers adjust with less trial and error.

Drive Smoothly, Save Range
Driving an EV is not simply a matter of pressing the pedal and expecting the same response as a petrol car. Electric motors deliver instant torque, which can tempt drivers to accelerate hard. Yet smooth driving is key to extracting the best range from a charge.

Regenerative braking, which recaptures energy when slowing down, works best when the driver anticipates traffic rather than relying on sudden stops. The lesson is simple: steady inputs save energy.

Most modern EVs come with multiple drive modes. Eco mode lightens steering effort and dials back power to extend range, especially useful in congested city streets. Normal mode balances efficiency and responsiveness for mixed conditions. Sport mode sharpens handling and maximizes power, best reserved for highways or quick overtaking. Many new owners assume Sport is the “default” choice, but frequent use drains the battery faster than expected.

Another habit worth building is pre-conditioning the car. By cooling or heating the cabin while plugged in, owners reduce the energy drawn from the battery once the trip begins. In hot Indian summers, this small step can preserve several kilometers of driving range. 

VinFast has built these functions into the VF 6 and VF 7, pairing them with steering assist and suspension tuned for both urban traffic and longer journeys. The VF 7 also shows that efficiency and performance are not mutually exclusive. Its all-wheel-drive version accelerates from zero to 100 kilometers per hour in 5.8 seconds, yet still allows drivers to optimize range with the right settings.

Charge Wisely, Treat the Battery Well
If driving style is the first adjustment, charging habits are the second. Petrol drivers are used to filling a tank from empty. That mindset does not translate well to EVs. Batteries last longer when kept between 20 and 80 percent charge for daily use. Allowing the pack to reach zero is a big “no-no”. Fast charging, meanwhile, is a valuable tool for road trips, but it should not become the default method. Overnight charging at home on a slower connection is gentler and often cheaper.

Public charging also comes with a new form of etiquette. Once the car is topped up, drivers should move it so others can use the station. India’s network of public chargers is expanding, yet access remains uneven. Urban centers are seeing rapid installations, while many highways are still thinly covered. For first-time owners, this means route planning matters. Checking apps before setting out helps avoid range anxiety. 

VinFast equips its VF 6 and VF 7 with LFP battery cells, known for thermal stability, and a battery management system that balances charging and discharging for longevity. Both models come with segment-leading warranties -10 years or 200,000 kilometers for the VF 7, 7 years or 160,000 kilometers for the VF 6, and 10 years or 200,000 kilometers of battery coverage for both-supported by durability testing already proven across more than 100,000 VinFast vehicles worldwide. That level of coverage provides reassurance for those still learning what “good charging habits” look like in practice.

Maintain Regularly, Understand Safety
The third adjustment comes in long-term ownership. EVs need less routine servicing than petrol cars, yet they are not maintenance-free. Tyres wear the same, and brakes still require checks even if regenerative braking reduces use. Cooling systems that regulate battery temperature must be inspected periodically. Another change is the role of software. Updates can now add features or refine safety systems overnight. Drivers should keep cars connected to receive improvements that once would have required a trip to the dealer.

In India’s humid and varied climate, corrosion protection matters. New buyers would do well to look at warranties that extend beyond the basics, since this can translate into fewer surprises over time. 

Safety is another priority. Advanced driver assistance systems such as lane-keeping, adaptive cruise control, or automated braking are valuable aids, but they require understanding. Knowing when the system intervenes and when it does not prevent over-reliance. 

VinFast’s VF 6 and VF 7 are designed to meet international benchmark safety standards and have been crash-tested for occupant protection. Structural durability of both vehicles is validated for 240,000 kilometers, while corrosion resistance keeps body panels intact for years.

Building Confidence on the Road
Drive smoother, plan smarter, charge with care, and treat the car as a connected machine that benefits from attention to software as well as hardware. With these practices, and with models like the VF 6 and VF 7 designed to support them, the country’s first-time EV drivers can move from cautious experimentation to everyday confidence.

About VinFast
VinFast (NASDAQ: VFS), a subsidiary of Vingroup JSC, one of Vietnam's largest conglomerates, is a pure-play electric vehicle manufacturer with the mission of making EVs accessible to everyone. VinFast's product lineup includes a wide range of electric SUVs, e-scooters, and e-buses. The company is rapidly expanding its global distribution network and manufacturing capabilities with facilities in Vietnam, India, and planned operations in the United States.

The company's Thoothukudi facility in Tamil Nadu represents a $500 million investment and will produce 150,000 vehicles annually when fully operational, creating approximately 3,500 direct jobs.

Learn more at: vinfastauto.in

From VinFast’s assembly plant in Tamil Nadu, the VF 6 and VF 7 mark a new phase in India’s EV market
 

In September, a new choice appeared on Indian roads. From an assembly plant in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, the upstart EV maker VinFast introduced their first models for the market: the compact VF 6 and VF 7 crossovers, accompanied by ambitions that go well beyond cutting emissions. What they offer is quieter commutes, lower cost per kilometre, and fewer hours spent waiting at service centers - a side of EV ownership that is easily overlooked.
 

Silence and Savings on Every Commute

At five in the morning, Bengaluru already growls. Motorcycles weave through delivery vans, horns stitch the air together, and by the time office workers pour into Connaught Place the sound feels endless. Electric drivetrains, which operate at under 40 decibels at city speeds, cut through that din in a surprising way. When a VF 7 glides past tea stalls and office blocks, the silence is what draws notice.
 

The price gap shows up most clearly at the meter. One policy brief by PRS Legislative Research calculates that four-wheeler EVs run at about Rs. 1 per kilometre, or just Rs. 0.7 with concessional tariffs. Petrol cars come in at roughly Rs. 4.1 per kilometre and climb to Rs. 6.4 once taxes and subsidies are included. Owners do not need a policy brief to notice the difference. On forums, early adopters describe fuel budgets dropping by thousands of rupees. A commuter covering, say, 40 kilometres a day can see the monthly bill shrink dramatically compared with petrol.
 

But savings on running costs matter only if the cars themselves feel attainable. That is where the VF 6 and VF 7 step in. The VF 6 opens at an introductory Rs. 16.49 lakh ex-showroom for the first 1,500 buyers, while the larger VF 7 begins at Rs. 20.89 lakh. Their certified ranges - up to 468 kilometres for the VF 6 and 532 kilometres for the VF 7- place them squarely in the territory of everyday commuting as well as weekend trips. Incentives such as three years of free charging at V-Green partner stations are meant to calm early doubts, but the broader message is clear: these models are positioned to compete in the middle of India’s market rather than at the edges.
 

Less Time in the Shop, More Time on the Road

One advantage of electric cars rarely gets attention: how little is inside the drivetrain. A petrol engine depends on more than 200 moving parts; an electric one makes do with about 20. With fewer components, there are fewer things to break, and that often shows up in the bills. According to CEEW’s national cost-of-ownership model, routine maintenance for electric SUVs in India averages Rs. 0.58 per kilometre, compared with Rs. 0.77 for diesel. Over 15,000 kilometres, the difference adds up to almost Rs. 2,850. Stretch ownership to five years and the gap grows to around Rs. 14,000.
 

A buyer weighing those numbers might still ask: what happens if something major goes wrong? Warranty terms provide the answer, showing a brand’s true commitment. The VinFast VF 7 is covered for 10 years or 200,000 kilometres, while the VF 6 carries seven years of coverage. The company is also investing in a wider support system: an assembly plant in Tamil Nadu, an expanding network of service centers in major cities, and three years of free charging at V-Green stations.
 

Put together, the advantages form a clear pattern. EVs, particularly those made by VinFast, deliver practical and reassuring benefits, not just abstract ideals. For anyone wondering whether an electric crossover fits Indian life, the case for models like the VF 6 and VF 7 might rest less on lofty promises of cleaner skies and more on the tangible arithmetic of rupees saved, noise reduced, and weekends spared from hours in the repair shop.

Breaking away from the sameness of India’s SUV crowd, the VinFast VF 7 stands out with a Torino Design-crafted look and character that make it less a utility vehicle and more a personal signature on wheels

The VF 7 avoids the ordinary. At first glance, it strikes a bold note with a sporty, modern language drawn up by the Italian studio Torino Design. The front carries a V-shaped badge set inside a wing-like strip of daytime running lights. The body follows a fastback profile, its roof tapering neatly toward the rear. Slim tail lamps stretch across the back, producing a sharp visual effect that is easy to recognize on the road.

Some owners say it feels unlike any petrol SUV they have seen. One creative professional chose it because the look is so different: “Sporty, but still refined. When I drive through the city, it draws attention. Friends ask me about it because it doesn’t resemble any of the common SUVs out there.” His view echoes what early adopters in other markets have noticed: the VF 7 is styled to be seen.

European-Bred Exterior

The design team calls its approach “Asymmetrical Aerospace”. Sharp lines and taut surfaces echo aircraft forms, while flush handles cut drag and wide 19-inch wheels steady the body. A clean diffuser and sculpted bumper finish the rear with balance.

These are more than styling tricks. Smooth underbody panels ease airflow, and an acoustic windshield quiets the cabin. Air curtains at the headlamps shave resistance. Together, they deliver efficiency and calmer cruising, welcome on long Indian highways.

Proportion matters too, with length over 4.5 meters and a 2,840 mm wheelbase. That balance gives the SUV confidence without the burden of bulk, and it reflects a goal the designers had from the start. As a representative of Torino Design explained, “The VF 7 was born to fulfill that dream by preserving the soul of concept design in a commercial vehicle.”⁽¹⁾

“We spent more than 80,000 hours working on the entire VF 7 project to achieve the car you see today,” he added.

Sensory Interior, Minimalist but Warm

Inside, the cockpit takes on a “few but fine” approach: A 12.9-inch central screen floats above the dash, supported by a color head-up display that projects data at eye level. A piano-like gear selector sits within easy reach, replacing bulky levers with simple taps.

Material choice speaks to the model’s European sensibility, with buyers choosing between black vegan leather for a sportier feel or mocca brown for a warmer mood. Infinity trims add a fixed glass roof that fills the cabin with daylight even on a monsoon afternoon. These touches make the VF 7 feel as crafted as it is engineered.

Comfort in the VF 7 comes from a mix of thoughtful details, beginning with its long wheelbase that opens rear legroom, ventilated seats that cool passengers in Delhi’s summer heat, dual-zone climate control that adapts to different preferences, and acoustic glass that blocks out the chaos of urban traffic, while ambient lighting and an eight-speaker audio system turn long night drives into something quieter and more composed. Each feature adds up, not as luxuries piled on, but as deliberate choices aimed at making daily use less tiring and more rewarding.

The VF 7 also carries a suite of driver aids, including adaptive cruise control, lane keeping, and a camera-based fatigue warning. These systems matter in India’s traffic, where steady focus can be hard to maintain. They reduce strain, which is as much a design goal as styling.

By pairing Italian-sketched aerodynamics with a calm, tech-rich cabin, the VF 7 stands as more than just another entry in the EV market. It offers Indian buyers a mix of style and substance, a car that looks distinctive on the outside and feels considered on the inside.

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Castrol’s extensive footprint will enable VinFast to offer broad and convenient after-sales care for further strengthening customer confidence

As part of the MoU, Castrol India will make selected Castrol Auto Service (CAS) workshops from its 750+ CAS network in 300+ cities available to VinFast customers. These outlets will feature dedicated VinFast-branded service bays, certified EV technicians, and genuine VinFast parts.

VinFast will provide service manuals, diagnostic tools, training, and warranty coverage processes, while Castrol will ensure workshops meet infrastructure and capability standards. This collaboration will give VinFast customers access to Castrol’s well-established expertise, advanced service protocols, and digitally integrated workshop ecosystem. These capabilities guarantee consistent quality, transparency, and convenience at every service touchpoint.

Castrol’s extensive footprint will enable VinFast to offer broad and convenient after-sales care for further strengthening customer confidence.

Mr. Pham Sanh Chau, CEO of VinFast Asia, said, “For VinFast, India represents not just a new market but a long-term commitment to building an inclusive EV ecosystem. Reliable after- sales care is central to this vision, and our collaboration with Castrol India along with other partners ensures that customers will have access to trusted, high-quality service across the country from the beginning. This initiative also aligns with both companies’ commitment to supporting India’s transition towards sustainable mobility by making EV ownership hassle-free and future- ready.”

Mr. Rajeev Govil, Senior Vice President, India B2B, Castrol India, said, “As electric mobility grows in India, after-sales service will play a critical role in building customer confidence. Through this collaboration, we bring the strength of our Castrol Auto Service network to support VinFast and its EV customers. With our wide reach and experience in servicing conventional passenger vehicles, we are excited to enable our network to deliver comprehensive EV solutions and play a part in shaping a stronger mobility ecosystem in the country.”

VinFast has been reinforcing its commitment to India’s EV landscape through significant investments. The company recently launched its first overseas assembly facility in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, with an initial capacity of 50,000 vehicles annually, scalable to 150,000 units— creating thousands of direct jobs. Alongside local production, VinFast has partnered with multiple leading dealer groups to establish a total of 35 dealerships across 27 cities by the end of 2025.

With the recent launch of its premium SUVs, VF 6 and VF 7, in India, VinFast is simultaneously building a comprehensive service backbone to ensure customers enjoy the same level of confidence, convenience, and care that defines its vehicles. Together, VinFast and Castrol aim to raise service standards through advanced diagnostics, genuine parts, and digital-first support solutions. This collaboration also underscores their shared commitment to supporting India’s transition to sustainable mobility and providing customers with long-term reliability.

About VinFast
VinFast (NASDAQ: VFS), a subsidiary of Vingroup JSC, one of Vietnam’s largest conglomerates, is a pure-play electric vehicle (“EV”) manufacturer with the mission of making EVs accessible to everyone. VinFast is currently embarking on its next growth phase through rapid expansion of its distribution and dealership network globally and increasing its manufacturing capacities with a focus on key markets across North America, Europe and Asia.

Learn more at: vinfastauto.in

About Castrol India Limited
Castrol India Limited, part of the bp group, is a leading lubricant company with a 115-year presence in India. Known for its innovation and high-performance products, Castrol offers trusted brands like Castrol CRB, Castrol GTX, Castrol Activ, Castrol MAGNATEC, Castrol EDGE, and Castrol POWER1. Serving various sectors including automotive, mining, machinery, and wind energy, Castrol India operates three blending plants and a wide distribution network, reaching over 150,000 retail outlets nationwide. Globally, Castrol has been driving technological advancements for 125 years.

For more information, please visit www.castrol.co.in

The MoU was signed by Mr. Pham Sanh Chau, CEO of VinFast Asia, along with Mr.Anindya Sunder Paul, Deputy Managing Director, State Bank of India

Under the dealer finance tie-up, State Bank of India will extend finance to VinFast’s exclusive dealer network on favorable terms. The finance agreement also brings a wide range of benefits for dealers, such as attractive interest rates, flexible repayment options, and other tailored suite of credit solutions.

The collaboration enables VinFast to leverage SBI’s extensive pan-India branch network and digital platforms to reach customers across both urban and emerging markets. It also aligns with the company’s broader goal of accelerating the adoption of sustainable mobility solutions in India, one of the fastest-growing EV markets globally.

The MoU was signed by Mr. Pham Sanh Chau, CEO of VinFast Asia, along with Mr.Anindya Sunder Paul, Deputy Managing Director, State Bank of India, and Mr. Debasis Mohanty Business, General Manager(SME & SCF).

Mr. Pham Sanh Chau, CEO of VinFast Asia, shared, “At VinFast, we believe that a vibrant EV ecosystem can be built on two strong pillars, engaged customers and an empowered dealer network. This partnership with SBI marks a crucial step in strengthening our dealer network and empowering them with seamless access to credit solutions. By working with one of India’s largest and most trusted banking institutions, we are creating a stronger financial backbone that supports our dealers in expanding operations and serving customers with confidence. Together, we are laying the foundation for a robust ecosystem that will accelerate the growth of electric mobility across India.”

Commenting on the collaboration, Mr. Anindya Sunder Paul, Deputy Managing Director, State Bank of India, said, “As EV adoption accelerates, access to financing will play a vital role in driving this transition. Our collaboration with VinFast will offer customers convenient credit solutions tailored to its premium EV lineup, reflecting the Bank’s broader commitment to sustainability. Such partnerships also help us empower our customers to achieve their green mobility aspirations with ease.”

VinFast recently launched its premium VF 6 and VF 7 models in India and this partnership highlights the company’s ongoing efforts to establish a strong and customer-focused footprint in the country.

About VinFast

VinFast (NASDAQ: VFS), a subsidiary of Vingroup JSC, one of Vietnam’s largest conglomerates, is a pure-play electric vehicle (“EV”) manufacturer with the mission of making EVs accessible to everyone. VinFast’s product lineup today includes a wide range of electric SUVs, e-scooters, and e-buses.

VinFast is currently embarking on its next growth phase through rapid expansion of its distribution and dealership network globally and increasing its manufacturing capacities with a focus on key markets across North America, Europe and Asia.

Learn more at: vinfastauto.in.

About State Bank

State Bank of India is the largest bank of India with over 200 years of legacy. It has a 25% share of the total loan and deposits market in India. SBI is the 47th largest bank in the world by total assets and ranked 178th in the Fortune Global 500 list of the world's biggest corporations of 2024, being the only Indian bank on the list.

Both VF 6 and VF 7 feature large touchscreens, vegan-leather upholstery and support for over-the-air updates

The share of battery-electric cars in new passenger vehicle registrations reached 5.4 percent in August, up from 4.9 percent in July. SUVs and MPVs now account for nearly two-thirds of car sales in this financial year, underlining the country’s preference for taller, larger vehicles.

At the upper end of the market, growth has been faster. Electric models in the luxury segment saw a 66 percent rise in sales between January and May, pushing their share from 7 percent to 11 percent. For many buyers, electric mobility is starting to feel like a serious choice rather than an experiment.

It is into this early but growing market that VinFast has recently introduced the VF 6 and VF 7, the first models to come out of its new 400-acre plant in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu. The launches arrive at a time when interest in electric SUVs is beginning to spread.

VF 6 and VF 7: Affordable-Premium Answer

The VF 6 is priced between Rs. 16.49 lakh and Rs. 18.29 lakh. The larger VF 7 ranges from Rs. 20.89 lakh to Rs. 25.49 lakh. Both combine SUV styling with long-range batteries, placing them in the space where many Indian buyers are now looking.

The VF 6 carries a 59.6 kWh battery pack with an ARAI-certified range of up to 468 km. It supports DC fast charging from 10 to 70 percent in around 25 minutes. The VF 7 uses a larger 70.8 kWh pack and can travel up to 496 km, with fast charging in about 28 minutes. Higher trims add all-wheel drive, with quicker acceleration for those who value performance.

Inside, the focus is on clean design and technology. Both models feature large touchscreens, vegan-leather upholstery and support for over-the-air updates. The cabins are minimalistic but functional, offering flat rear floors that make the second row more comfortable. Boot space is 423 liters in the VF 6 and 537 liters in the VF 7, with folding seats for added flexibility.

Features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist and 360-degree cameras bring a degree of driver assistance not always common in this price band. Pininfarina’s influence is visible in the styling, with sharp surfaces, coupe-like rooflines and distinctive V-shaped lighting signatures.

VinFast is offering incentives to ease adoption. Buyers get free nationwide DC charging at partner V-Green stations until July 2028, along with three years of free maintenance. The battery, the most critical component of an EV, is covered by a 10-year or 200,000 km warranty, offering reassurance for those still cautious about longevity.

VinFast India is rapidly expanding its presence across India with planned 35 dealer touchpoints and 26 Workshops across 27 cities by year-end. These include metros and emerging EV hubs like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, etc.

What It Means for Indian Buyers

For many households, the choice to go electric depends on practicality, cost, and trust. The VF 6 and VF 7, which Pham Sanh Chau, CEO of VinFast Asia, described as models that “embody the perfect harmony… that Indian consumers aspire to,” address those concerns with SUV formats, long-range batteries, and support measures like free charging and maintenance.

India’s 4-wheeler EV market is still young, but crossing 5 percent of new registrations shows the shift is widening. In that context, the VF 6 and VF 7 occupy a middle ground of accessible SUVs that can make the move to electric feel less like a leap and more like a natural step forward.

India’s major cities are emerging as key hubs for EV adoption, with growing infrastructure and policies drawing global automakers such as VinFast

Policy support, shorter daily travel distances, and a young consumer base are creating an environment where demand could build quickly. Brands in Indian, both old and new, including the Vietnamese EV upstart VinFast, are gearing up to fully take advantage of this momentum.

Cities at the Center of EV Readiness
In the race for EV adoption, India’s cities play a leading role due to their unique characteristics.

In 2024, 37 percent of India’s people lived in cities— and this share is expected to rise— concentrating significant income, infrastructure, and vehicle demand, as well as higher levels of traffic pollution that must be addressed. At the same time, most urban commuters travel less than 35 kilometers a day, a distance that is well within the range of most EVs already on the market.

Local policies are starting to lock in long-term support. Delhi’s EV plan requires that one in five parking spaces in new residential buildings be equipped for a charger. That kind of mandate makes EVs more appealing to both early adopters and mass consumers, helping them see the vehicles as practical rather than merely aspirational.

Charging growth has been rapid. By April 2025, India had 26,367 public charging points, compared with about 5,000 in 2022. Many are installed in shopping malls, office complexes, and along highways, giving drivers options for both daily charging and longer trips.

A Policy Push Toward Electric
National regulators are working to improve the economics of owning an EV. One proposed change would exempt them from the 15-year “End of Life” rule, which currently forces older vehicles off the road. Extending an EV’s legal usable life could boost its resale value and make financing easier.

State governments add their own incentives. Delhi is proposing to once again remove road tax and registration fees for EVs. Maharashtra offers early purchase subsidies of up to ₹2 lakh for electric cars. Tamil Nadu provides capital subsidies to EV manufacturers to attract new factories. Financing reforms are also on the table. The government has reportedly met with banks to address their reluctance to finance EVs and their concerns over high interest rates, addressing a common hurdle for buyers.

Policy focus is not spread evenly. Initiatives from NITI Aayog and various states concentrate on cities and sectors most ready for adoption, such as fleet operators and corporate users. The aim is to build momentum where infrastructure and consumer interest already align.

A New Player Positions Itself
To ensure a seamless ownership experience, VinFast has signed agreements with multiple dealer partners to set up 32 dealerships across 27 cities, forming a robust 3S (Sales, Service, Spares) ecosystem, with a total of 35 expected by year’s end. The initial network will cover key urban and emerging EV markets, including Delhi, Gurugram, Noida, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Pune.

This urban push is part of VinFast’s broader strategy to build a full EV ecosystem in India—combining a nationwide dealership network, integrated after-sales and service centers, and battery recycling partnerships. The company has joined forces with RoadGrid, myTVS, and Global Assure to create a nationwide charging and service network with real-time charging access, AI-driven diagnostics, and integrated digital platforms.

Just early August, the Vietnamese automaker also opened its first overseas EV assembly plant in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu. Built on a 400-acre industrial site, the plant represents a USD 500 million commitment in its initial phase. Annual capacity is set at 50,000 vehicles, with the possibility to scale to 150,000. The first models built will be the premium VF 6 and VF 7 SUVs.

Construction took nearly half a year, faster than the company’s first plant in Vietnam. The facility currently assembles vehicles from imported components but will expand into local parts production. Plans include a supplier park and eventually full manufacturing on site.

The plant is expected to create 3,000 to 3,500 jobs, most filled by workers from nearby districts. Tamil Nadu’s port and airport access, combined with its skilled labor pool, were key factors in the site selection. VinFast also intends to use the factory as an export hub for South Asia, the Middle East, and Africa, with orders already coming in from Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Mauritius.

India’s EV market is still in its early stages, but its largest cities are laying the groundwork for faster adoption. Automakers willing to invest now, build locally, and align with policy priorities could see the payoff in the years ahead. VinFast is placing its bet that it will be one of them.

Under the agreement, customers will enjoy tailored financing solutions, including attractive interest rates, flexible repayment options, up to 100% on-road funding, exclusive offers and priority services - applicable across VinFast’s entire product portfolio. Dedicated SBI representatives will be available at all VinFast showrooms to provide on-site support, making EV ownership more accessible and convenient for a wider range of Indian consumers.
 

Mr. Pham Sanh Chau, VinFast - CEO Asia and Shri Ajay Kumar Jha, General Manager, Retail Loans - SBI signed the MoU for retail EV financing solutions for VinFast customers
 

The collaboration allows VinFast to leverage State Bank of India’s extensive pan-India network of nearly 23,000 branches to reach customers across urban and emerging markets alike. It also aligns with the company’s broader goal of accelerating the adoption of sustainable transportation solutions in India, one of the fastest-growing EV markets globally.

This agreement underscores VinFast’s commitment to simplifying the path to electric mobility for Indian consumers. Through competitive financing options and seamless support, VinFast seeks to enable more customers to experience its EVs at a time when electric mobility is rapidly expanding and becoming an integral part of the nation’s transportation future.

The MoU was signed by Mr. Pham Sanh Chau, CEO of VinFast Asia, and Mr. Ajay Kumar Jha, General Manager – Retail Loans, State Bank of India.

Mr. Pham Sanh Chau, CEO of VinFast Asia, said, “Our collaboration with the State Bank of India, the nation’s largest and most trusted nationalised bank, is a significant step in building a strong foundation for VinFast’s growth in India. SBI’s unmatched reach and credibility, combined with our premium electric vehicle portfolio, will make VinFast vehicles more accessible to customers across urban and rural markets. This partnership will not only offer convenient and competitive financing solutions, but also extend the brand’s presence to a broader audience, enabling a seamless and holistic EV ownership journey.”

Shri. G. S. Rana, Deputy Managing Director, Retail-Personal Banking & Real Estate, State Bank of India, said, “As EV adoption accelerates, access to financing will be key to driving this transition. Our collaboration with VinFast will not only provide customers with convenient credit options for its premium EV lineup but also reinforce the Bank’s commitment to building a 7.5% green portfolio by 2030. With over Rs. 128 crore already raised through Green Deposits for EV loans in FY25, we see partnerships like this as vital catalysts in advancing India’s shift toward sustainable mobility.”

As VinFast gears up for the launch of its VF 6 and VF 7 models, this agreement highlights the company’s ongoing efforts to establish a strong and customer-focused footprint in India. VinFast has also recently inaugurated its EV assembly plant in Tamil Nadu, marking a significant milestone in its long-term growth strategy.

About VinFast
VinFast (NASDAQ: VFS), a subsidiary of Vingroup JSC, one of Vietnam’s largest conglomerates, is a pure-play electric vehicle (“EV”) manufacturer with the mission of making EVs accessible to everyone. VinFast’s product lineup today includes a wide range of electric SUVs, e-scooters, and e-buses. 
 

VinFast is currently embarking on its next growth phase through rapid expansion of its distribution and dealership network globally and increasing its manufacturing capacities with a focus on key markets across North America, Europe and Asia.
 

Learn more at vinfastauto.in.
 

About State Bank of India
State Bank of India is the largest commercial bank in terms of assets, deposits, branches, customers, and employees. It is also one of the largest mortgage lender in the country which has so far fulfilled the home buying dreams of around 31 lakh Indian families. The home loan portfolio of the bank has crossed Rs. 8.5 lakh crore. As of June 2025, the bank has a deposit base of over Rs. 54.73 lakh crore with CASA ratio of 39.36% and advances of more than Rs. 42.54 lakh crore. Ranked as the 4th most trustworthy bank in the world by Newsweek, SBI commands a market share of 27.7% and 19.03% in home loans and auto loans respectively. SBI has the largest network of 22,980 branches and 62,200 ATMs/ADWMs in India with more than 76,800 BC outlets. The number of customers using internet banking stand at 14.2 crores. With SBI’s digital strategy right on track, the bank witnessed 66% of new savings accounts being opened through the integrated digital and lifestyle platform YONO in Q1 FY26. YONO, which has more than 9.04 crore registered users, witnessed 27.4 lakh new YONO registrations in Q1FY26. In terms of digital lending, the bank disbursed pre-approved personal loans worth Rs. 1,791 crores through YONO during Q1 FY26. As on 30th June 2025, SBI has 21 million followers on Facebook, 3.3 million followers on Instagram, 4.8 million followers on X and 8.42 million subscribers on YouTube. State Bank of India is the most followed bank globally on Facebook, Instagram & X.

VinFast’s arrival underscores Tamil Nadu’s bet on EVs as a path to inclusive growth, with Thoothukudi anchoring a new industrial corridor in the south

Now the city stands on the brink of another transformation. VinFast’s 400-acre electric vehicle assembly plant in the SIPCOT industrial park has been launched on August 4, backed by an intial $500 million investment and a phase-one capacity of 50,000 vehicles annually. The project is expected to reshape Thoothukudi’s industrial identity and anchor a new phase of growth in southern Tamil Nadu.

VinFast Plants Stakes in Southern Tamil Nadu
Founded in 2017 as part of Vietnam’s Vingroup conglomerate, VinFast rapidly became the country’s top-selling car brand by 2024, its all-electric SUVs earning recognition in North America, Europe and Southeast Asia.

India, with its fast-growing EV market and supportive policies, was the next logical step. After evaluating 15 sites across six states, VinFast chose Tamil Nadu for its port access, strong infrastructure, skilled workforce, and a proactive government committed to building the state’s first all-electric vehicle cluster.

The new plant will integrate welding, painting and final assembly under one roof, with the first vehicles—the premium VF 6 and VF 7 designed for Indian buyers—expected to roll out later this year. It forms the centerpiece of VinFast’s broader plan for India, which is focused on building a comprehensive EV ecosystem. As part of this strategy, the company is partnering with RoadGrid and myTVS to establish hundreds of service centers, working with BatX Energies on battery recycling to create a sustainable closed-loop process, and collaborating with 13 dealer groups to launch 35 dealerships in 27 cities, ensuring wide sales coverage from day one.

"VinFast is committed to making EVs more accessible while contributing to economic growth through investment and local job creation," a company spokesperson said, positioning the brand as a ‘global premium EV’ that remains within reach of Indian consumers.

Tamil Nadu's Blueprint for EV Clustering
VinFast’s investment fits Tamil Nadu’s plan to expand EV manufacturing and push growth beyond its crowded northern hubs. Over the past four years, the state has drawn INR 7.51 trillion in investment, with southern districts now capturing nearly a third, a marked shift from the historical dominance of the north.

Faced with the choice of expanding congested hubs or building new ones, officials opted for the latter. Thoothukudi stood out for its port access, abundant land and trained labor pool, offering a clear export edge.

Under the plan, Thoothukudi is set to become Tamil Nadu’s first all-electric automotive cluster and its fourth major auto hub, joining Chennai, Coimbatore, and Hosur. Common facilities for motor, power electronics, and battery production are in development, with a third for vehicle testing under review. An EV Taskforce is steering the initiative, coordinating with industry players to create a complete supply ecosystem.

A parallel effort is underway to prepare the workforce. Through the state’s flagship “Naan Mudhalvan” program, hundreds of students have completed three weeks of training in technical, aptitude and communication skills, and VinFast has already taken on about 200 graduates. The company is shaping its staff with a hybrid 80–20 model in which the majority are local freshers or trainees, supported by a smaller group of experienced professionals. Together with its suppliers, the plant is expected to generate 3,000 to 3,500 direct jobs, raising wages and offering steady employment. 

The effect is certain to extend well beyond the factory floor, since studies suggest that every job in auto manufacturing can generate another four to 11 positions, whether in component suppliers, transport and logistics, or in the shops and services where automotive workers spend their paychecks.

Economic Ripples Beyond the Factory Gates
VinFast’s arrival underscores Tamil Nadu’s bet on EVs as a path to inclusive growth, with Thoothukudi anchoring a new industrial corridor in the south.

Its trajectory echoes other cities reinventing themselves, yet its scale and pace stand out, driven by state planning and VinFast’s ambitions. Once known for pearls, Thoothukudi may soon be celebrated for thousands of battery-powered vehicles bound for markets worldwide.

VinFast, the upstart Vietnamese EV maker, has just shown how quickly that ambition can take shape, in a feat that one prominent Indian newspaper called "the fastest manufacturing scale-up by any foreign carmaker in India." From groundbreaking to inauguration, it took 17 months to turn an empty patch of land into an assembly plant in Tamil Nadu. The facility features robotic body shops, automated paint lines, and a workforce trained to international standards.
 

VinFast, the upstart Vietnamese EV maker, has just shown how quickly that ambition can take shape
 

The Race Against Time
Most large auto plants take 24 to 36 months to complete, according to Brian Jones, COO of Gray, a firm that has built many auto and parts plants across North America. "From the first shovel in the ground to the first vehicle rolling off an assembly line, the fastest we've ever seen is 24 months," Jones told one American media outlet.
 

VinFast beat that benchmark. The company broke ground in February 2024 and inaugurated the plant this August. The achievement required careful site selection. VinFast chose Tamil Nadu from 15 sites across six states, prioritizing port access, infrastructure, workforce availability, and - most importantly - a government that acted as an active facilitator. Tamil Nadu Industries Minister T.R.B. Rajaa said many states tried to grab the car manufacturing unit, but Tamil Nadu proved its capabilities by providing all necessary facilities.
 

"It reaffirms Tamil Nadu's progressive industrial policies and will substantially contribute to local economic advancement, job creation, and technical skill development," Mr. Rajaa said in a press release.
 

The 400-acre facility can produce 50,000 units annually, with the flexibility to scale up to 150,000. An adjacent industrial zone will nurture local suppliers and create a broader manufacturing ecosystem.
 

Precision and Modernity From Day One

Inside the factory, the Body Shop houses 17 robots working alongside skilled welders and assemblers. The Paint Shop uses eight robots to apply consistent finishes, layer after layer.
 

To achieve that, VinFast partnered with ABB, Durr, Atlas Copco, Arrow, and Siemens. Together, they integrated automation and quality control systems that meet Industry 4.0 standards. A Manufacturing Execution System tracks each stage. Smart torque tools and 3D measurement systems verify parts before they move forward.
 

Another aspect showing VinFast’s speed is the fact that hiring began long before the assembly lines were complete. In April, a large-scale recruitment drive was conducted through the Naan Mudhalvan program, and just three months later, the plant inducted the first 200 workers, trained to meet international standards.
 

By the time the plant reaches full capacity, it will employ between 3,000 and 3,500 workers directly.
 

A Factory Built for the Future

The site’s proximity to a major port gives it an advantage beyond India’s borders. VinFast plans to use Thoothukudi as its main export hub for South Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. Orders from Sri Lanka and Mauritius are already confirmed. “We aim to develop the Thoothukudi plant into VinFast’s largest export hub for South Asia, the Middle East, and Africa,” said Mr. Chau.
 

State leaders see this as the start of something bigger, with the factory also fitting into India’s broader climate goals. Chief Minister Stalin said it would address the commitment to combating global warming and also improve the economy of the southern districts.
 

The speed of construction was a statement as much as an achievement. For VinFast, it signals a determination to compete in one of the world’s most dynamic EV markets, with the next phase bringing more automation, higher output, and deeper ties between Vietnam and India.

VinFast is working to make the infrastructure, the service, and the consumer experience strong enough to carry its brand for years to come

In August 2025, VinFast opened its first Indian manufacturing plant in Tamil Nadu. The facility is set to turn out 50,000 electric vehicles a year, with the option to triple production if demand rises. The ribbon-cutting came only weeks after pre-bookings began for the VF 6 and VF 7, two premium electric SUVs first shown at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo earlier this year.

Before deliveries start, the company has been staging its models in malls and other high-traffic public spaces across several cities. Shoppers stop, take photos, and ask questions. The aim is clear: let people witness the cars firthand before they commit. The entry plan unfolds in steps. First, spark curiosity. Then collect early reservations. Finally, reinforce the brand with an ecosystem, which include a factory, that signals a long-term presence.

India’s electric vehicle (EV) market is still small enough that a new entrant can help shape its image. VinFast wants to build recognition before the competition intensifies. The company is betting that early visibility will lead to steady sales once production ramps up.

Why India Now
Urban areas are growing quickly. Government incentives are making EVs more affordable. Rising incomes are putting higher-end models within reach. Younger drivers, often more open to digital features, make up a large share of the population.

For a manufacturer, India’s size is its own lure. Even a modest share of the market can mean tens of thousands of units sold each year. The competition remains in its early stages, so the focus is not on pulling buyers from rivals but on bringing first-time EV owners into the fold.

The Tamil Nadu plant offers more than domestic supply. It gives the company a base for exports to South Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. This widens its reach and allows it to serve multiple markets from a single hub.

The Playbook
The plan rests on three main parts. First, local manufacturing. Building in India cuts costs, meets domestic content rules, and allows for quicker response to changes in demand.

Second, market positioning. The VF 6 and VF 7 aim to combine aspirational design with prices that remain competitive against both electric and combustion-engine models. By year’s end, VinFast expects to have 35 showrooms open in 27 cities, placing its products within reach of much of India’s urban population.

Third, the ecosystem. The company is forging partnerships for charging capabilities, maintenance networks, and battery recycling. It is also stressing after-sales care, a key point for buyers new to EV ownership.

Showroom openings have drawn steady interest. Pre-bookings require only a small deposit, which lowers the barrier for potential buyers to express interest. Dealers say they are watching to see how many early reservations convert to completed sales.

For VinFast, India is not an isolated experiment. The company used a similar approach in Vietnam, building visibility, local production, and support services in parallel, which helped it become the best-selling brand in its home market. It is now applying that playbook in the Philippines and Indonesia, with India representing its largest expansion so far. If the approach gains traction here, it could guide future entries into other emerging economies where EV adoption is still in its early stages.

The next phase is about deepening the support network. That means more charging stations in major cities, training local technicians for EV maintenance, and building recycling systems for batteries. It also means making after-sales care smooth enough that first-time EV owners feel confident from day one.

For now, the lines in Tamil Nadu keep moving, and new showrooms keep welcoming visitors. In betting on India, VinFast is working to make the infrastructure, the service, and the consumer experience strong enough to carry its brand for years to come.

“Refex eVeelz” Rebrands as “Refex Mobility”

With this transition, the brand is reaffirming its commitment to delivering safe, reliable, and socially-conscious transportation at scale. From its modest beginnings in March 2023 with 24 company-owned EVs, Refex Mobility now operates a fleet of nearly 1,400 EVs, offering tech backed and tailored B2B and B2B2C mobility solutions to leading corporates, institutions, and employees.

With a renewed focus on “Responsible Mobility”, Refex is setting new benchmarks in how people and organizations move. The company’s refreshed mission is built on strong pillars of reliability, safety, sustainability, and social impact — aiming to create transportation that is not just efficient, but also trustworthy and transformative for communities.

Anirudh Arun Appointed CEO to Spearhead Next Phase
Refex Mobility has appointed Anirudh Arun as Chief Executive Officer, signalling a focused drive toward scale, execution, and customer experience. Anirudh brings a strong track record in the mobility industry, known for building premium, safe, clean-fuel run, zero-cancellation fleet systems at scale.

Speaking on the occasion, Anirudh, CEO of Refex Mobility said, “Mobility is more than just getting from point A to B — it’s about trust, dignity, and dependability. Our vision at Refex is to build a fleet and service culture where customers, drivers, and partners all experience that trust every single day.”

He is joined by Ankit Grover as Chief Business Officer, who will drive revenue growth by deepening enterprise partnerships and expanding corporate client engagements.

Strengthened Leadership, Built on a Strong Foundation
Bringing deep expertise from the clean mobility space, Anirudh and Ankit infuse bold strategic direction into Refex Mobility’s leadership. They join a strong foundation anchored by Sasi A (Chief Technology Officer), Meet Goradia (Chief Operating Officer), and Sachin Navtosh Jha (Chief of Staff to the Group MD), who continue to ensure continuity, institutional depth, and sharp operational execution.

A Bold New Look: Reliable Fleet, Exceptional Experience
Alongside the leadership announcement, Refex also introduced a vibrant new brand identity. This includes a redesigned company logo, a modern app icon, and striking new vehicle decals — all underscoring the brand promise: “Refex = Reliable Fleet. Exceptional Experience.”

The rebranding reflects the company’s unwavering dedication to professionalism, timeliness, cleanliness, and customer-first service. Whether for individual passengers or large-scale corporate mobility needs, Refex aims to make every ride feel premium, safe, and dependable.

Building for the Future of Urban Mobility
Refex is rapidly expanding its fleet of vehicles, offering sustainable alternatives for enterprise and employee mobility. From corporate employee transport to premium on-demand services, Refex is committed to raising the bar across all dimensions of urban mobility.

For more details, please visit: www.refexmobility.com 

About Refex Mobility
Refex Mobility is a fleet-first mobility platform focused on delivering reliable, safe, and sustainable rides through sustainable-fuel vehicles. Backed by a strong group legacy and now steered by a forward-thinking leadership team, Refex is reimagining what responsible mobility means for India.

Behind VinFast’s expansion stands billionaire Pham Nhat Vuong, whose clear vision has shaped Vietnam’s largest conglomerate, Vingroup

Behind VinFast’s expansion stands billionaire Pham Nhat Vuong, whose clear vision has shaped Vietnam’s largest conglomerate, Vingroup. With businesses spanning technology, real estate, and healthcare, Vingroup alone accounted for an estimated 1.6 percent of Vietnam’s GDP in 2023. Its growth mirrors the transformation of Vietnam itself, from a quiet agricultural economy into a thriving industrial force.

But VinFast’s international venture isn’t just backed by Vingroup’s capital. It benefits directly from its parent company’s network of tech-driven subsidiaries, a sprawling web of businesses that offer critical resources for electric vehicle manufacturing.

Take, for instance, VinBigData, also a Vingroup powerhouse. Its AI platforms, such as the ViVi smart voice assistant and advanced camera systems, add competitive features to VinFast’s cars, giving them access to technology other makers must buy or build from scratch.

The advantages of Vingroup’s ecosystem further come to life in innovations like VinFast MirrorSense, the world’s first AI-based automatic mirror adjustment system, developed jointly by VinFast and another Vingroup subsidiary. Introduced at CES 2024, MirrorSense took home an Innovation Award by showcasing how AI can make everyday driving simpler and safer.

However, VinFast’s green journey don’t stop at selling electric vehicles alone. To power its factory in Vietnam sustainably, VinFast recently partnered with VinEnergo, another Vingroup firm specializing in renewable energy and battery storage. Their combined efforts aim to generate 50 million kWh of solar power per year, potentially reducing carbon emissions by more than 33,000 tons annually. Battery storage solutions designed by VinFast meet global safety standards, setting an example in sustainable industrial production.

It’s these collaborations in its home market that have made VinFast a dominating force in Vietnam and are now supporting its global expansion.

In India, VinFast’s new plant covers 400 acres and will initially produce two premium electric SUVs, the VF 7 and VF 6. Annual production starts at 50,000 vehicles but could scale quickly to 150,000 to meet growing demand. With production lines featuring advanced automation and quality standards, the plant creates thousands of local jobs, helping Tamil Nadu establish itself as a key hub in South Asia’s electric vehicle industry.

Beyond the factory gates, VinFast is laying the groundwork across India’s EV market by establishing service networks, recycling partnerships, and digital solutions. It aims to drive adoption by making electric vehicles accessible, practical, and affordable for Indian consumers.

India’s market, already crowded and fiercely competitive, certainly poses challenges. Still, VinFast’s ecosystem strategy offers advantages few rivals can match. Instead of entering alone, VinFast draws on technology, talent, and tested resources within Vingroup, speeding up its ability to compete from day one.

This ambitious factory opening confirms not only VinFast’s global ambitions but also signals Vingroup’s potential for a wider role in India. The group’s blend of innovation, scale, and integrated resources positions it uniquely among global competitors, offering India something beyond just another automotive brand: a ready-made partner for future infrastructure and technological growth.

Hon. Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu Thiru. M K Stalin, Mr. Pham Sanh Chau, VinFast - CEO Asia, along with government officials at the grand opening ceremony of the first electric vehicle plant of VinFast India in Thoothukudi

VinFast Tamil Nadu is the company’s third operational plant and the fifth project in its global manufacturing network. As the first VinFast facility inaugurated outside Vietnam, it demonstrates both the brand’s global vision and its capacity to deliver large-scale projects.
 

With a total area of 400 acres, the plant is equipped with state-of-the-art production lines meeting world-class standards, featuring advanced automation and cutting-edge technologies. The complex houses multiple workshops, including Body Shop, Paint Shop, Assembly Shop, Quality Control Center, and a Logistics Hub. It also includes an auxiliary cluster for local contractors, which is expected to expand in the coming years.
 

At full capacity, the plant will create 3,000-3,500 direct jobs for local workers, along with thousands of indirect jobs in the supply chain ecosystem. This will help boost socio-economic development in Tamil Nadu, positioning the state as a manufacturing hub for India and a potential EV capital of South Asia in the near future.
 

Hon. Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu Thiru. M K Stalin signs the first VF7 premium SUV that rolled out from the assembly line of VinFast India plant in a grand opening ceremony in Thoothukudi
 

In its initial phase, VinFast Tamil Nadu will focus on assembling two premium electric SUV models: the VF 7 and VF 6. The plant’s starting capacity is 50,000 vehicles per year, scalable up to 150,000 units annually to meet rising market demand.
 

With the launch of the Tamil Nadu plant, VinFast moves closer to its 2025 sales target of 200,000 vehicles and its long-term production goal of 1 million vehicles per year by 2030. This milestone reaffirms VinFast’s commitment to promoting sustainable mobility and advancing a greener future in India and worldwide.
 

Speaking on the inauguration, Mr. Pham Sanh Chau, CEO of VinFast Asia, stated, “The VinFast Tamil Nadu plant marks a strategic milestone in our long-term commitment to the Indian market. It establishes a strong foundation for sustainable growth and positions us to offer high-quality, competitively priced electric vehicles to Indian consumers. Looking ahead, the facility will expand its production capacity to meet rising demand. We aim to develop it into VinFast’s largest export hub for South Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. In fact, we've already secured initial orders from several countries across these regions. In close collaboration with the Tamil Nadu government, VinFast is working to transform the area into the 'EV capital of South Asia'—supporting both the dynamic domestic market and our broader regional ambitions.”
 

VinFast Tamil Nadu not only strengthens the company’s global production capability but also contributes significantly to India’s green industrial development. The plant will prioritize collaboration with domestic suppliers, promoting supply chain localization, technology transfer, and workforce upskilling.
 

Since entering India, VinFast has actively pursued a comprehensive EV ecosystem model covering assembly, distribution, after-sales services, and recycling, with the 400-acres Tamil Nadu plant being a strategic piece in this value chain. In parallel, VinFast has partnered with multiple dealer groups in key cities and teamed up with RoadGrid, myTVS, and Global Assure to build a robust digital services and after-sales support network. VinFast has also joined forces with BatX Energies to enable battery recovery and reuse, advancing circular production and sustainable development in the world’s third-largest automobile market.
 

About VinFast
VinFast (NASDAQ: VFS), a subsidiary of Vingroup JSC, one of Vietnam’s largest conglomerates, is a pure-play electric vehicle (“EV”) manufacturer with the mission of making EVs accessible to everyone. VinFast’s product lineup today includes a wide range of electric SUVs, e-scooters, and e-buses.
 

VinFast is currently embarking on its next growth phase through rapid expansion of its distribution and dealership network globally and increasing its manufacturing capacities with a focus on key markets across North America, Europe and Asia.
 

Learn more at vinfastauto.in.

First it was in the port city of Haiphong, turning a swamp into a state-of-the-art factory. Now, the company is attempting a similar feat in southern India, where the contours of its second major plant are beginning to emerge.

Over a year ago, the land outside Thoothukudi was little more than sun-baked scrubland. Today, assembly lines stand ready, the machinery set to stamp, weld and paint the first Vietnamese-designed electric cars meant for Indian roads.
 

VinFast factory in Hai Phong city, northern Vietnam
 

Phase one alone carries a $500 million investment, part of a $2 billion commitment. The assembly facility can turn out 50,000 vehicles annually, with room to triple output if demand rises, and is expected to create 3,000 to 3,500 jobs. Construction has stayed on schedule since the memorandum of understanding was signed in early 2024, and the first VF 6 and VF 7 models are set to reach Indian customers soon after the ribbon-cutting.
 

Why India, Why Now

As it scouts the next stop in its global expansion, VinFast sees India, where electric vehicles still make up only a single-digit share of the market, as a market on the edge of rapid growth. Rising environmental concerns and a demand for affordable mobility are reshaping consumer choices. By assembling locally, the company can bypass steep import duties and bring its premium SUVs closer to the budgets of India’s expanding middle class.
 

But the Tamil Nadu plant is meant to be more than an assembly site. VinFast hopes to replicate a strategy that has served it well in Vietnam: building an ecosystem that integrates production, a network of charging stations, sales to taxi and bus operators, and comprehensive after-sales support, including software updates, repairs and financing.
 

To deliver this in India, the company has signed 13 distribution partners to open 32 outlets across 27 cities. It has also teamed with RoadGrid, myTVS and Global Assure to establish a charging and service backbone, while working with BatX Energies on recycling and second-life applications to build a closed battery loop and lower lifetime ownership costs.
 

This ecosystem can require heavy amount of effort and investment, but it may be essential to easing range anxiety and making EV ownership routine.
 

Tamil Nadu as Launchpad

Tamil Nadu’s 2023 EV policy offers land concessions, subsidies and expedited permits. State officials often point to the deep-sea Ro-Ro port at Thoothukudi as a springboard for exports. For the state, VinFast’s plant represents a significant auto investment, reinforcing Tamil Nadu’s status as India’s most diverse automotive hub.
 

The plant’s modular design allows production to scale for nearby South Asian countries, Gulf states and African markets. Interest has already come from Nepal, Sri Lanka and Middle Eastern distributors, and trade analysts suggest Thoothukudi could become a hub for right-hand-drive exports if tariff agreements with the United States advance.
 

For India, the gains may extend well beyond the state. The facility is expected to strengthen the country’s EV supply chain, generating thousands of direct jobs and supporting many more in component manufacturing, logistics and software. Local sourcing requirements could draw dozens of suppliers into Tamil Nadu, accelerating technology transfer and giving Indian firms a foothold in Southeast Asian and Middle Eastern EV markets.
 

The project is also expected to speed the Inia’s transition to cleaner transport. A widespread network of service centers and chargers can help reduce one of the biggest barriers to EV adoption. By delivering competitively priced vehicles with reliable after-sales support, VinFast may pressure local automakers to expand their EV lineups, nudging India closer to its target of electrifying 30 percent of new car sales by 2030.
 

Yet competition looms. Homegrown manufacturers dominate the EV market, and global giants are recalibrating their India strategies. But VinFast is betting that “premium yet accessible” models - mid-range pricing paired with strong connectivity and after-sales packages - will sway drivers away from gasoline.