Discover the VinFast VF5, an affordable electric hatchback for Indian city drivers, offering spacious interior and competitive pricing. Learn more today!
Vietnamese automaker VinFast is gearing up for its next big push into the world’s most populous market. The company plans to introduce the VF5, a compact electric hatchback, to Indian shoppers in the first half of 2026. Positioned as a direct competitor to Tata’s Tiago EV, the VF5 aims to blend roomy interiors, city‑friendly performance, and a price point that appeals to first‑time EV buyers.
Why India Is a Strategic Destination
India’s electric‑vehicle (EV) market is accelerating rapidly, driven by government incentives and a growing appetite for affordable, low‑emission transportation. For VinFast, establishing a foothold here offers access to a massive customer base and the opportunity to challenge entrenched local players.
Design and Space: More Room for the Everyday Driver
The VF5 measures 3,967 mm in length, 1,723 mm in width, and 1,579 mm in height, with a 2,514 mm wheelbase. This longer wheelbase translates into a cabin that feels noticeably wider than the Tata Tiago EV, especially for rear‑seat passengers. The boot provides 260 liters of storage, expandable to roughly 900 liters when the second‑row seats are folded, making the VF5 practical for both daily commutes and weekend getaways.
Powertrain Choices Tailored for City Driving
VinFast will offer two battery options:
- 29.6 kWh battery: 95 hp motor, 135 Nm torque, up to 268 km range (NEDC).
- 37.23 kWh battery: 136 hp motor, up to 326 km range (NEDC).
Both setups prioritize efficiency and low running costs, perfect for urban environments where short‑to‑mid‑range trips dominate.
Inside the Cabin: Simple Yet Functional
The interior adopts a minimalist approach focused on practicality. Highlights include an 8‑inch central infotainment screen, a 7‑inch digital instrument cluster, a four‑speaker audio system, synthetic leather‑wrapped seats, smart key access, push‑button start, and a PM2.5 air filtration system. These features strike a balance between modern comfort and cost‑effectiveness, avoiding overly complex technology that could inflate the price.
Local Production: Cutting Costs at the Source
VinFast plans to manufacture the VF5 at its new plant in Tamil Nadu, sharing the production line with the VF6 and VF7 models. Building the vehicle domestically reduces logistics expenses and tariff burdens, allowing the company to price the VF5 more competitively.
Pricing and Competition
Current Indian EV pricing benchmarks:
- Tata Tiago EV: starting at ~7.99 lakh INR (≈ US$9,600)
- Tata Punch EV: roughly 10 lakh INR
Analysts estimate the VF5 could be priced around 12 lakh INR, positioning it slightly above the Tiago EV but delivering a larger, newer design and stronger powertrains in certain variants. The higher price is offset by the added space, updated styling, and localized production savings.
Strategic Outlook: A “Strategic Card” for VinFast
Rather than chasing breakthrough technology, VinFast’s VF5 focuses on the classic automotive equation: price + space + operating cost. In a market where affordable EVs are in high demand, the VF5 could become a pivotal product for the Vietnamese brand, helping it secure a foothold in one of the world’s most competitive automotive arenas.