India’s latest car entrant isn’t from China. VinFast, founded in 2017 by Pham Nhat Vuong, has launched its VF 6 and VF 7 electric SUVs in India.
Image credit: Vinfast Auto
At first glance, many might assume that the latest carmaker to enter India is yet another Chinese brand. After all, headlines about China’s automobile expansion dominate the news cycle. But in this case, the surprise entrant comes from Vietnam. The company in question is VinFast, an ambitious automaker that has quickly risen to global attention.
VinFast: A Vietnamese Challenger
VinFast was founded in 2017 by billionaire Pham Nhat Vuong, under the umbrella of Vingroup, one of Vietnam’s largest private conglomerates. In less than a decade, VinFast has transformed from a newcomer to a serious global contender, with a bold shift towards becoming an all-electric carmaker. The company initially introduced internal combustion vehicles for the domestic Vietnamese market but soon pivoted entirely to EVs, positioning itself as a competitor to global names like Tesla, BYD, and Hyundai.
VinFast’s India Entry
In 2025, VinFast marked its arrival in India by setting up a manufacturing facility in Thoothukudi (Tuticorin), Tamil Nadu. The facility, spread over 400 acres, represents an initial investment of USD 500 million in the first five years, with total planned spending of up to USD 2 billion. The plant aims to assemble up to 150,000 vehicles annually, and its focus will be on producing electric SUVs tailored for the Indian market.
VinFast opened bookings in mid-2025 for two models—the VF 6 and VF 7—both of which are premium electric SUVs. With prices starting around ₹16.5 lakh for the VF 6 and going up to ₹25 lakh for the VF 7, VinFast is aiming squarely at India’s fast-growing EV segment dominated by Tata, Mahindra, and MG.
VinFast’s ambitions extend well beyond Vietnam and India. The company has already entered the United States and European markets, launching its larger electric SUVs, the VF 8 and VF 9. In the U.S., VinFast made headlines by delivering its first vehicles in California. The company has also announced plans to set up manufacturing facilities in North America to reduce reliance on imports.
Interestingly, VinFast has also tested waters in China—a notoriously competitive market dominated by homegrown players like BYD and Nio. While its presence in China is still limited, the company has showcased its models at Chinese auto expos, signaling intent to challenge even in BYD’s backyard. This reflects VinFast’s strategy of positioning itself as a truly global automaker.
A New Chapter for India’s EV Story
VinFast’s entry marks an important milestone for India’s electric vehicle industry. At a time when Chinese automakers dominate conversations, VinFast offers a refreshing alternative from Vietnam. With its competitive pricing, strong investment, and global ambitions, VinFast could become a name to watch in India’s EV race.
Summary Box: VinFast in India – At a Glance
• Origin: Vietnam (part of Vingroup)
• Founded: 2017 by Pham Nhat Vuong
• India Entry: 2025, plant in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu
• Investment: $500 million initially, up to $2 billion planned
• Annual Capacity: 150,000 vehicles
• Models Launched: VF 6 & VF 7 (both EVs)
• Price Range: ₹16.5–25 lakh (ex-showroom)
• Global Presence: U.S., Europe, Vietnam, limited exposure in China