VinFast
VinFast Auto Ltd. is a Vietnamese electric vehicle manufacturer founded in 2017 as a subsidiary of Vingroup, the country's largest private conglomerate led by billionaire Phạm Nhật Vượng, and headquartered in Hai Phong.[1][2] As the first Vietnamese automaker to expand into global markets, it initially produced gasoline-powered sedans and SUVs unveiled at the 2018 Paris Motor Show before pivoting to battery electric vehicles, with its current lineup including models like the VF 3 compact SUV, VF 8 crossover, and VF 9 three-row SUV targeted at international consumers.[3][4] VinFast has pursued aggressive expansion, inaugurating a second domestic EV factory in Ha Tinh Province in June 2025 with an annual capacity of 200,000 units and partnering for charging infrastructure across Europe and Southeast Asia to support its ecosystem.[5][6] The company reported strong growth in Q2 2025, with electric vehicle deliveries surging 172% year-over-year to 35,837 units and revenues nearly doubling to $663 million, driven by domestic dominance in Vietnam where it achieved 100,000 EV sales in nine months.[7][8] Despite these operational milestones, VinFast sustains heavy financial losses—$812 million net loss in Q2 2025—due to substantial spending on scaling production, marketing, and international facilities, raising ongoing concerns about cash burn and path to profitability.[9][10] The firm has encountered significant challenges, including multiple U.S. recalls for the VF 8 model addressing issues like unexpected steering wheel movement, faulty ADAS software, and improper airbag deployment, alongside whistleblower reports alleging rushed production leading to safety deficiencies.[11][12][13] Its Nasdaq-listed stock has plummeted over 90% from its peak, trading at a premium relative to peers amid investor skepticism over U.S. and European market traction, persistent unprofitability, and reliance on Vingroup funding exceeding $14 billion.[14][15][16]
History
Founding and Initial Focus on ICE Vehicles (2017-2019)
VinFast was established in 2017 as a subsidiary of Vingroup, Vietnam's largest private conglomerate, by billionaire founder Phạm Nhật Vượng, with the objective of creating a national automotive industry capable of producing vehicles for both domestic and international markets.[17][18] The company initiated construction of its primary manufacturing facility in Hai Phong's Dinh Vu - Cat Hai Industrial Park that September, investing in a state-of-the-art complex designed for scalable production up to 250,000 internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles annually in the first phase, primarily targeting Vietnam's market while preparing for exports.[19][20] In October 2018, VinFast made its global debut at the Paris Motor Show, unveiling two premium ICE models developed in collaboration with Italian design firm Pininfarina: the Lux A2.0 executive sedan, derived from the BMW 5 Series platform, and the Lux SA2.0 mid-size SUV, based on the BMW X5, both powered by BMW-sourced 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engines offering up to 228 horsepower paired with ZF 8-speed automatic transmissions.[21][22] These vehicles emphasized luxury features, advanced safety systems, and performance tuned for competitive positioning in Vietnam's growing automotive sector. A third model, the subcompact Fadil city car (based on the Opel Karl), was later announced as part of the initial lineup to address entry-level demand. The Hai Phong factory was officially inaugurated on June 14, 2019, marking the start of mass production for the Lux A2.0, Lux SA2.0, and Fadil, with initial deliveries commencing that summer to Vietnamese customers.[20] This phase prioritized ICE powertrains, reflecting Vietnam's infrastructure and market preferences at the time, though production volumes remained modest amid efforts to build quality assurance and supply chains.[3]Pivot to Electric Vehicles and Early Internationalization (2020-2022)
In March 2021, VinFast initiated its electric vehicle efforts with the announcement of the VF e34, a compact crossover SUV designed primarily for the Vietnamese market, which garnered over 25,000 pre-orders shortly after launch.[23] The company delivered the first batch of 100 VF e34 units to customers in Vietnam on December 25, 2021, marking its initial foray into electric passenger vehicles amid a strategic shift away from internal combustion engine models.[24] At the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in January 2022, VinFast unveiled a comprehensive all-electric strategy, committing to cease production of gasoline-powered vehicles by the end of the year and revealing a full lineup of battery-electric SUVs spanning five segments, including the VF 6, VF 7, VF 8, and VF 9 models targeted for international markets.[25] This pivot aligned with global trends toward electrification, supported by VinFast's parent company Vingroup's resources, though the transition involved halting further development of ICE vehicles launched earlier. Reservations for the VF 8 and VF 9 opened immediately at CES, emphasizing subscription-based battery leasing options to address range anxiety and ownership costs.[26] Parallel to its EV pivot, VinFast pursued early internationalization by establishing subsidiaries in North America and Europe starting July 12, 2021, with operations in the United States, Canada, France, Germany, and the Netherlands to facilitate market entry and sales.[23] In March 2021, the company announced plans for a U.S. manufacturing facility to support local production of electric SUVs like the VF 32 and VF 33 (later rebranded), aiming for a 2022 rollout.[27] By November 2021, VinFast detailed intentions to deliver its first electric vehicles to U.S. customers by the end of 2022, establishing a headquarters in Los Angeles to oversee expansion.[28] Culminating these efforts, on November 25, 2022, VinFast shipped its inaugural batch of 999 VF 8 SUVs from Vietnam to the United States, fulfilling part of 65,000 global orders and enabling deliveries to commence by December 2022, though actual U.S. customer handovers faced delays into 2023.[29] This shipment represented Vietnam's first automotive export of electric vehicles at scale, underscoring VinFast's aggressive push beyond domestic boundaries despite the nascent stage of its EV technology and global supply chain dependencies.[30]Public Listing and Aggressive Global Expansion (2023)
In May 2023, VinFast announced a business combination with Black Spade Acquisition Corp, a special purpose acquisition company, valuing the automaker at approximately $23 billion on a fully diluted basis, with existing shareholders retaining about 99% ownership post-merger.[31][32] The merger was completed on August 14, 2023, enabling VinFast to debut on the Nasdaq Global Select Market under the ticker symbol "VFS" the following day.[33][34] VinFast's shares experienced significant volatility upon listing, rising over 68% on the debut day to close at around $37, briefly pushing the company's market capitalization above $85 billion and surpassing established automakers like Ford and General Motors.[35][36] Subsequent trading saw further surges, with shares doubling multiple times in August amid retail investor interest, though the valuation drew scrutiny for exceeding 46 times projected 2023 sales of about $1.9 billion.[37][38] Parallel to its listing, VinFast pursued rapid internationalization, commencing VF 8 SUV deliveries in the United States in March 2023 after software-related delays postponed initial shipments from late 2022.[39] On July 28, 2023, the company broke ground on a $4 billion electric vehicle assembly and battery manufacturing facility in Chatham County, North Carolina, spanning 1,800 acres and targeting an initial annual capacity of 150,000 vehicles by 2025.[40][41] By November 2023, VinFast had received applications from 70 U.S. dealers and aimed to expand to 125 locations nationwide to support sales growth.[42] Globally, VinFast opened showrooms in the United States, Canada, and select European markets in 2023, while announcing plans for ASEAN entry starting with Indonesia and the Philippines to tap regional demand.[3][43] The company delivered 34,855 electric vehicles worldwide in 2023, a 374% increase from 2022, primarily driven by models like the VF 8 and VF 9, though international volumes remained modest compared to domestic sales in Vietnam.[44] These efforts aligned with ambitions to reach up to 50 markets by the end of 2024.[45]Operational Adjustments and Recent Developments (2024-2025)
In 2024, VinFast adjusted its operational strategy amid challenging global EV market conditions, including reduced sales targets from an initial 100,000 vehicles to 80,000, ultimately delivering 97,000 electric vehicles worldwide, with the majority occurring in the fourth quarter at 53,139 units, a 342% year-over-year increase but reflecting heavy reliance on Vietnam for over 67,000 units.[46][47][48] These figures represented nearly triple the prior year's deliveries but were accompanied by a $3.2 billion net loss, up from $2.4 billion in 2023, driven by promotional incentives and expanded warranties to stimulate demand, alongside revenue growth of 58% to $1.8 billion.[49] Internationally, sales remained limited to about 10% of total volume, prompting a shift from direct-owned showrooms—such as closing all California locations in June 2025—to partnerships with third-party dealers, expanding to 30 U.S. outlets and emphasizing a 10-year vehicle warranty.[46][50] Significant manufacturing adjustments included multiple delays to the $4 billion North Carolina facility, originally slated for 2024 operations but postponed to 2025 and then to 2028, with construction halting at times due to economic headwinds and site acquisition issues, reflecting a broader pause in aggressive Western expansion amid quality complaints and market slowdowns.[51][52][53] In response, VinFast redirected resources toward Southeast Asia and India, opening a second domestic EV factory in Vietnam in June 2025 to support increased production capacity.[54] Entering 2025, VinFast set an ambitious delivery target of 200,000 vehicles, building on first-quarter momentum and early-year domestic sales, while advancing Asian infrastructure through an EV plant opening in India in August 2025 and plans for assembly in Indonesia by 2026.[54][53][55] Dealer network expansions included partnerships with 13 groups in India for 32 outlets across 27 cities, targeting 35 by year-end, alongside a return to Indonesia's GIIAS 2025 to introduce a new model and showcase its lineup.[56][57] Complementary efforts involved deploying 15,000 EV charging ports in the Philippines via partnerships, though quarterly losses continued to widen in early 2025 due to sustained investment in these initiatives.[58][59]Ownership and Corporate Governance
Affiliation with Vingroup and Founder Influence
VinFast operates as a subsidiary of Vingroup Joint Stock Company, Vietnam's largest private conglomerate, which was instrumental in its establishment in 2017 and has provided substantial financial backing thereafter.[60] Vingroup's ownership stake in VinFast Auto Ltd. stands at approximately 83.6%, enabling integrated support across manufacturing, supply chains, and real estate for facilities like the company's primary plant in Hai Phong, Vietnam.[61] This affiliation has facilitated over $11.4 billion in capital injections from Vingroup, its affiliates, and related entities by 2024, underscoring the conglomerate's role in underwriting VinFast's rapid scaling despite ongoing operational losses.[62] In November 2024, Vingroup committed to lending VinFast up to 35 trillion Vietnamese dong (about $1.4 billion) through 2026 to aid profitability goals, converting prior loans into equity to bolster the subsidiary's balance sheet.[60] Pham Nhat Vuong, founder and chairman of Vingroup since 1993, wields decisive influence over VinFast as its controlling shareholder—holding indirect control via Vingroup and direct stakes—and as CEO since January 2024, where he directs global production, sales, and marketing strategies.[63] Vuong, Vietnam's wealthiest individual, has personally committed over 50 trillion Vietnamese dong (roughly $2.1 billion) in non-repayable sponsorship by late 2024, reflecting his long-term vision for VinFast as a vehicle for Vietnam's technological advancement despite cumulative investments exceeding $14 billion yielding limited market traction in Western regions.[64][65] In August 2025, VinFast transferred its research and development assets to Vuong for $1.5 billion, further entrenching his oversight amid a strategic pivot toward Asian markets like India and Indonesia.[66] This hands-on involvement, including Vuong's approximate 98% effective control through layered holdings, has driven aggressive expansion but also heightened financial interdependence with Vingroup, exposing the parent to VinFast's persistent challenges in achieving economies of scale.[67][62]Leadership Structure and Key Executives
VinFast Auto Ltd. maintains a corporate governance structure typical of a publicly listed company on the Nasdaq, featuring a Board of Directors that provides oversight of strategic direction, risk management, and executive performance, supported by specialized committees such as the Audit Committee.[68] The board comprises six members, including executive directors, affiliated directors from parent company Vingroup, and independent directors to ensure balanced decision-making.[69] This setup reflects VinFast's evolution post its August 2023 public listing via SPAC merger, with governance principles emphasizing transparency and accountability amid heavy reliance on Vingroup for funding and operations.[70] The executive team reports to the board and focuses on day-to-day operations, product development, and global expansion. A notable aspect of the structure is the dominant influence of Vingroup founder Pham Nhat Vuong, who holds the CEO role and maintains significant control through Vingroup's ownership stake, which has raised concerns about potential conflicts in related-party transactions accounting for over 90% of revenue in recent periods.[71] Key executives and board members as of 2025 include:| Name | Position | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Le Thi Thu Thuy | Chairwoman of the Board | Assumed role January 5, 2024; previously CEO from March 2022.[72] |
| Pham Nhat Vuong | Managing Director and CEO; Director | Founder of parent Vingroup; appointed CEO January 5, 2024, to steer amid financial challenges.[72] [73] |
| Nguyen Thi Lan Anh | Chief Financial Officer; Director | Appointed January 5, 2024, replacing prior CFO.[72] |
| Nguyen Thi Van Trinh | Director | Affiliated with Vingroup.[68] |
| Ling Chung Yee Roy | Independent Director; Audit Committee Chairman | Appointed to enhance oversight.[69] [68] |
| Tham Chee Soon | Independent Director; Audit Committee Member | Provides external perspective.[69] [68] |
Products and Technology
Electric Passenger Vehicles
VinFast's electric passenger vehicles comprise a lineup of battery-electric SUVs marketed under the VF designation, emphasizing all-wheel-drive configurations, high power outputs, and integrated advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) at Level 2 autonomy. The company shifted exclusively to electric vehicles in 2021, discontinuing internal combustion engine models to focus on zero-emission mobility with features like over-the-air updates and vehicle-to-load capabilities.[75] Models target segments from compact crossovers to three-row family haulers, with battery capacities ranging from approximately 60 kWh to over 100 kWh, sourced from suppliers including LG Energy Solution and Gotion High-Tech.[76] Key models include the VF 6, a front-wheel-drive compact SUV with up to 201 horsepower and access to extensive North American charging networks; the VF 7 midsize SUV offering 348 horsepower, a 75.3 kWh battery, and an estimated 268-mile range; the VF 8 midsize SUV in Eco (349 hp, 369 lb-ft torque) and Plus (402 hp, 457 lb-ft) trims; and the VF 9 full-size three-row SUV with dual-motor all-wheel drive delivering 402 horsepower.[77][78][79][80] These vehicles incorporate ADAS features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, traffic jam assist, and highway assist for semi-autonomous operation, supported by cameras, radars, and ultrasonic sensors.[81][78]| Model | Drive Type | Horsepower | Battery Capacity (kWh, usable) | Estimated Range (miles) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VF 6 Plus | FWD | 201 | 59.6 | Not specified (EPA pending) |
| VF 7 | AWD | 348 | 75.3 | 268 |
| VF 8 Eco | AWD | 349 | Not specified | EPA ~260 (varies by trim) |
| VF 8 Plus | AWD | 402 | Not specified | EPA ~240 (varies by trim) |
| VF 9 | AWD | 402 | Not specified | EPA ~300+ (varies) |
Current Model Lineup and Specifications
VinFast's current electric passenger vehicle lineup features the VF 6, VF 7, VF 8, and VF 9 SUVs, available in international markets including the United States and Europe, while the smaller VF 3 and VF 5 models are primarily offered in Vietnam and select Asian countries.[85][86] The VF 3 and VF 5 contributed significantly to domestic sales in Vietnam during the third quarter of 2025, accounting for 47% of deliveries.[86] The VF 6 is a compact front-wheel-drive eSUV equipped with a 59.6 kWh battery, offering an estimated WLTP range of 237-248 miles, 174-201 horsepower, and 184-228 lb-ft of torque, with dimensions of 166.9 x 71.7 x 62.8 inches.[77] It includes a 12.9-inch touchscreen and Level 2 highway assist capabilities.[77] The VF 7, a compact SUV, utilizes a 75.3 kWh battery for a WLTP range of 268-280 miles, delivering 201-348 horsepower and 228-368 lb-ft of torque in front- or all-wheel-drive configurations, measuring 178.9 x 74.4 x 64.4 inches.[78]| Model | Battery Capacity (kWh) | Range (miles, EPA/WLTP) | Horsepower | Drive Type | Dimensions (L x W x H, inches) | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| VF 6 | 59.6 | 237-248 (WLTP) | 174-201 | FWD | 166.9 x 71.7 x 62.8 | N/A |
| VF 7 | 75.3 | 268-280 (WLTP) | 201-348 | FWD/AWD | 178.9 x 74.4 x 64.4 | N/A |
| VF 8 | 87.7 | 235-256 (EPA) | 349-402 | AWD | 187 x 76.1 x 65.6 | 10 years/125,000 miles |
| VF 9 | 123 | 291-330 (EPA) | 402 | AWD | 201.5 x 88.7 x 66.6-66.7 | 10 years/125,000 miles |
Battery Systems and Autonomous Features
VinFast electric vehicles primarily utilize lithium-ion batteries sourced from suppliers such as CATL for nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) chemistries and Gotion High-Tech for lithium iron phosphate (LFP) cells, enabling variations in energy density and cost for different models.[88] In 2021, VinFast partnered with Gotion for joint research and development of LFP battery cells aimed at improving performance and affordability in energy storage applications.[89] The company has also invested tens of millions of U.S. dollars in ProLogium Technology to co-develop solid-state battery packs, with commercial agreements signed in 2022 to integrate these higher-density, safer cells into future vehicle designs, though production timelines remain pending as of 2023.[90] [88] In December 2023, Vingroup Chairman Pham Nhat Vuong donated 99.8% of shares in VinES Energy Solutions—a Vingroup subsidiary specializing in battery manufacturing and R&D—to VinFast, integrating in-house production capabilities for custom packs with capacities ranging from approximately 59.6 kWh in compact models like the VF 6 to 87.7 kWh in larger SUVs like the VF 8.[91] [76] This merger enhances vertical control over battery quality and supply, with VinES focusing on plasma-resistant NMC cells from CATL and LFP from Gotion, while supporting recycling initiatives such as a 2023 collaboration with Marubeni to repurpose used EV batteries into energy storage systems.[88] [92] Battery warranties typically extend up to 10 years, emphasizing durability, though real-world range varies by model and conditions, with EPA estimates for usable capacities informing efficiency claims.[93] VinFast incorporates Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) across its lineup, starting prominently with the VF 8, providing Level 2 autonomy features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking to enhance safety through real-time hazard detection and intervention.[81] [84] Higher-end models like the VF 9 include advanced capabilities such as motorway driving assist, automatic lane-changing, on-ramp/off-ramp assistance, and fully automated parking, displayed via user-friendly interfaces for driver alerts and controls.[80] The VF 7 similarly supports ADAS with partial autonomous elements, including collision warnings and cruise assist, though these systems require driver supervision and may incur additional subscription fees post-warranty.[94] [95] While VinFast promotes these as strides toward broader autonomous driving, independent assessments note reliance on camera and sensor fusion without specified partnerships like Mobileye, and user reports highlight occasional reliability issues in early implementations.[96]Electric Two-Wheelers and Commercial Vehicles
VinFast produces a variety of electric scooters and e-bikes targeted mainly at urban mobility in Vietnam, with select models expanding internationally. The company's two-wheeler lineup emphasizes affordability, battery-swapping compatibility in Vietnam, and features like IP67 water resistance and LFP batteries for durability. Key models include the Klara S, which weighs 108 kg with two batteries and offers a 120 km range after a 4.8-hour charge; the Evo200, featuring a 2,500 W motor, 97 kg weight, and up to 203 km range; and the Vero X, launched in September 2025 with a 2,250 W in-hub motor achieving 0-50 km/h in 15 seconds and a top speed of 70 km/h.[97][98][99] Other notable scooters encompass the Theon S, Feliz S, Vento S, Eva 200, and Feliz Lite, showcased at events like Auto Expo 2025, alongside lighter options such as the Impes (75 kg) and Ludo (68 kg). The VF DrgnFly e-bike, introduced in the U.S. market on April 13, 2024, starts at $2,800 with a two-year unlimited mileage warranty and app-integrated smart features. In the first nine months of 2025, VinFast sold 234,536 e-scooters and e-bikes, reflecting a 489% year-over-year increase, driven partly by policies like Hanoi's motorbike restrictions.[100][97][101] For commercial vehicles, VinFast has developed electric buses, beginning with Vietnam's first e-bus launch in 2021. The company unveiled the EB 8 and EB 12 models at Busworld Europe 2025 on October 4, 2025, marking its entry into the European market with operations planned by 2026. The EB 12, a 12-meter low-floor city bus with dimensions of 12,110 x 2,550 x 3,330 mm and a GVW of 19,200 kg, accommodates up to 90 passengers via two 125 kW wheel-hub motors (250 kW total), a top speed of 80 km/h, and a 422 kWh LFP battery from suppliers like CATL, providing over 400 km range under SORT 2 conditions.[102][103][104] The EB 8 midibus, suited for up to 60 passengers including 24 seats and one wheelchair space, employs a 200 kW central motor, 80 km/h top speed, and 359 kWh battery for over 290 km range, exceeding typical daily urban routes. Both models incorporate ADAS features and support high-power charging, with the EB 12 already homologated for European sales at prices under €400,000. No electric vans or other commercial two-wheelers are currently in production.[105][103][106]Manufacturing and Infrastructure
Domestic Facilities in Vietnam
VinFast's primary manufacturing facility is located in Hai Phong, Vietnam, spanning 828 acres and constructed in 21 months with an initial investment of $1.5 billion.[107] The plant began operations in June 2019 and initially supported production of internal combustion engine vehicles before transitioning to electric vehicles.[107] It includes integrated operations for stamping, welding, painting, and assembly, with capacity for up to 250,000 automobiles, 3,000 electric buses, and 250,000 electric scooters annually in its early phases, expandable to 950,000 vehicles per year by 2026.[107][108] In June 2025, VinFast inaugurated a second domestic facility in the Vũng Áng Economic Zone of Hà Tĩnh province, covering 36 hectares and designed specifically for electric vehicle production.[5][54] Constructed in under seven months, the plant has an initial annual capacity of 200,000 units, focusing on compact models for both Vietnamese consumption and export.[5][54] This expansion aims to double overall Vietnamese production capacity while enhancing localization through on-site battery assembly and component integration.[109] Both facilities benefit from proximity to Vingroup's supporting infrastructure, including steel production at Formosa Ha Tinh Steel and logistics via VinFast's integrated port access in Hai Phong.[107] However, operational challenges, such as reliance on imported components despite localization efforts, have constrained full capacity utilization amid fluctuating domestic demand.[54]Overseas Production and Expansion Efforts
VinFast has pursued overseas production to reduce import dependencies, localize manufacturing, and support market expansion, primarily targeting the United States, India, and Indonesia amid challenges in scaling global sales from its Vietnamese base.[110][111] In the United States, VinFast announced a $4 billion electric vehicle manufacturing facility in Chatham County, North Carolina, in March 2022, with initial production targeted for 2024 and capacity for 150,000 vehicles annually, creating up to 7,500 jobs.[112] The project received $1.2 billion in state incentives but faced multiple delays: first to mid-2025 due to supply chain issues and design changes, then to 2028 following a 20% reduction in the assembly building footprint to 782,255 square feet amid construction setbacks and market adjustments.[113][114] Groundbreaking occurred in July 2023, with site preparation including roadwork ongoing as of 2025, though the company continues importing vehicles from Vietnam for U.S. sales in the interim.[115][116] VinFast shifted emphasis to Asia for nearer-term production gains, planning an assembly plant in India to open in June 2025 at an unspecified site, aimed at boosting local output to 150,000 units annually by tripling capacity from initial levels.[117][118] In Indonesia, a $200 million facility in West Java is slated for October 2025 startup, with annual production of 30,000 to 50,000 units targeted for 2026 to serve Southeast Asian demand.[119][120] These initiatives reflect a pivot from U.S.-centric expansion after faltering retail efforts, with the company seeking equity partners to fund delays and prioritizing regional markets where EV adoption aligns with lower logistical costs.[121][122]Supply Chain and Localization Strategies
VinFast has pursued aggressive localization strategies in Vietnam, achieving a vehicle localization rate exceeding 60% as of late 2024, encompassing components such as the body, engine, roof, and shock absorbers, while excluding batteries.[123] The company has outlined a roadmap to elevate this to 80% by 2026 through expanding its domestic supplier network and committing to procure all contracted products locally, thereby fostering economic growth and reducing import dependencies.[124][125] This includes collaborations with local firms like An Phat for achieving early milestones toward 60% localization in 2019.[126] For international expansion, VinFast emphasizes localization to mitigate tariffs, enhance cost competitiveness, and comply with regional incentives, such as India's requirements for local manufacturing. In India, where it inaugurated an electric vehicle plant in 2025, the company prioritizes high localization levels by partnering with domestic suppliers for components, establishing charging infrastructure, and developing after-sales networks to support projected production increases to 150,000 units annually.[127][128] Similarly, in Indonesia, VinFast plans an assembly plant by 2026 to localize production amid Southeast Asian market shifts.[55] In the United States, localization efforts center on its North Carolina facility, spanning 800 hectares in Chatham County, though progress has faced delays favoring Southeast Asian priorities.[112][55] VinFast's battery supply chain integrates in-house capabilities via VinES, to which Vingroup donated 99.8% ownership in December 2023 for greater self-sufficiency in battery technology.[91] External partnerships bolster this, including joint R&D with Gotion High-Tech for lithium iron phosphate (LFP) cells since 2021 and investments in ProLogium for solid-state batteries, with cell deliveries slated from 2024.[129][90] Recycling initiatives support a closed-loop system, such as agreements with Li-Cycle for Vietnamese-sourced materials starting 2024 and BatX Energies in India for high-voltage battery recovery launched in July 2025.[130][131] Overall, these strategies adopt a digital supply chain framework aligned with Industry 4.0 principles to optimize manufacturing and logistics efficiency.[132]Financial Performance
Initial Public Offering and Capital Raising
VinFast completed its initial public offering through a merger with Black Spade Acquisition Co., a special purpose acquisition company (SPAC), on August 14, 2023, with shares debuting on the Nasdaq Global Select Market under the ticker VFS the following day.[133] The business combination agreement, announced on May 12, 2023, valued the company at an enterprise value of approximately $27 billion and an equity value of $23 billion, reflecting optimism about its electric vehicle expansion despite limited U.S. sales at the time.[32] [34] The SPAC merger provided VinFast with approximately $30 million in gross proceeds from Black Spade's trust account, net of redemptions, offering modest liquidity compared to the high valuation but enabling public market access for future equity issuances.[134] VinFast's chief financial officer indicated post-listing plans for additional capital raises within the next 12 months to support global manufacturing and sales growth.[134] VinFast's capital structure has depended heavily on support from its parent, Vingroup, and founder Pham Nhat Vuong, with the company entering a funding agreement with them in April 2023 to cover operational needs amid ongoing losses.[135] In November 2024, VinFast secured commitments for up to 35 trillion Vietnamese dong (approximately $1.4 billion) in loans from Vingroup by the end of 2026, sourced from Vingroup's operations and subsidiary dividends, alongside a personal sponsorship pledge of 50 trillion Vietnamese dong (about $2.1 billion) from Vuong to bolster liquidity and expansion efforts.[60] [136] These infusions underscore Vingroup's role in bridging VinFast's cash requirements, as the subsidiary has not yet achieved profitability.[137]Revenue Growth, Sales Data, and Ongoing Losses
VinFast's annual revenue reached VND 44,019.6 billion (US$1.81 billion) in 2024, marking a 57.9% increase from 2023, driven primarily by higher electric vehicle deliveries and e-scooter sales.[138] In the first half of 2025, quarterly revenues continued to expand, with Q1 at approximately US$656.5 million (a 150% year-over-year rise) and Q2 at VND 16,609.3 billion (US$663 million, up 91.6% from Q2 2024), reflecting increased production scale and market penetration in Vietnam and emerging international sales.[139][140] Trailing twelve-month revenue as of June 30, 2025, stood at US$2.35 billion, underscoring accelerated growth amid global expansion efforts.[141] Global electric vehicle deliveries totaled 97,399 units in 2024, with Q4 alone accounting for 53,139 vehicles, primarily concentrated in Vietnam.[142] In Q2 2025, EV deliveries rose to 35,837 units, a 172% increase year-over-year, while e-scooter and electric bike deliveries reached 69,580 units, up 432% from Q2 2024.[7] Domestic sales in Vietnam remained dominant, with 9,588 EVs delivered in April 2025 (year-to-date: 44,691 units) and VinFast models capturing significant market share, including leading positions in monthly rankings through mid-2025.[143] Despite revenue gains, VinFast reported substantial net losses, with 2024's annual figure at US$3.175 billion, a 32% worsening from 2023's US$2.405 billion.[144] Quarterly losses persisted into 2025, including US$712.4 million in Q1 (up 20% year-over-year) and US$812 million in Q2 (up 8.4% from Q2 2024), accompanied by a negative gross margin of 41% in Q2 due to elevated production costs, R&D investments, and sales incentives.[145][146] These ongoing deficits highlight operational inefficiencies and heavy capital expenditures for scaling manufacturing and international dealer networks, even as delivery volumes expanded.[147]| Year/Quarter | Revenue (US$ million) | EV Deliveries | Net Loss (US$ million) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 (Annual) | 1,203 | N/A | 2,405 |
| 2024 (Annual) | 1,809 | 97,399 | 3,175 |
| Q1 2025 | 656.5 | N/A | 712.4 |
| Q2 2025 | 663 | 35,837 | 812 |
Dependence on Parent Company Funding
VinFast's operations have been sustained primarily through financial support from its parent company, Vingroup, amid persistent operating losses and high capital expenditures for expansion. The company's audited financial statements explicitly state its dependence on Vingroup for ongoing funding, with the parent undertaking procedures to provide such support as needed.[149] This reliance stems from VinFast's cash burn rates, which reached $3.3 billion in 2023 and $607 million in operating cash flow alone during the first quarter of 2025.[150][151] Vingroup has provided substantial loans and infusions to cover these shortfalls, including over 27 trillion Vietnamese dong (approximately $1.1 billion) disbursed by March 31, 2025, and an additional 35 trillion dong ($1.4 billion) loan announced in November 2024 to support growth initiatives.[138][152] Cumulative support exceeds $14 billion since VinFast's founding in 2017, encompassing direct investments, loans totaling over $2.7 billion, and pledges for further $3.5 billion, much of which has been drawn to offset annual net losses—such as $1.3 billion in 2021.[15][153][137] This funding model has imposed significant strain on Vingroup, which acts as guarantor for VinFast's $2.54 billion in debt obligations, including over $1.6 billion due in 2025 alone, contributing to a decline in Vingroup's market capitalization by nearly half since VinFast's Nasdaq listing in August 2023.[154][155] Vingroup's shares have fallen to multi-year lows, with foreign investor holdings dropping nearly 60% post-listing, reflecting concerns over the sustainability of subsidizing VinFast's unprofitable expansion.[155] Despite VinFast's public listing via SPAC merger, its liquidity—bolstered to around $2.4 billion as of Q1 2025—remains tied to Vingroup commitments rather than independent profitability.[156]Market Reception
Sales Performance by Region
VinFast's electric vehicle sales are predominantly concentrated in Vietnam, its domestic market, which has driven the majority of global deliveries. In 2024, Vietnam accounted for over 87,000 EV units sold, comprising approximately 90% of the company's total global deliveries of 97,399 EVs, with international markets contributing roughly 10,000 units.[46][142] In the first three quarters of 2025, domestic sales surpassed 100,000 EVs, achieving a national record and reflecting strong demand for models like the VF 3 and VF 5, fueled by government incentives and localization advantages.[157] This compared to global deliveries of 110,362 EVs over the same period, indicating persistent reliance on the home market amid slower international uptake.[86] In North America, particularly the United States, VinFast has faced significant challenges, with sales volumes remaining minimal despite aggressive expansion efforts including leasing incentives and dealership openings. For instance, only 332 EVs were sold in the U.S. in December 2024, highlighting difficulties in competing against established brands amid concerns over build quality and charging infrastructure compatibility.[111] Quarterly international deliveries in 2025 have shown modest growth but constitute a small fraction of totals, with North American contributions estimated in the low thousands year-to-date based on proportional trends from prior periods.[46] European sales have seen preliminary progress, with VinFast targeting increased market share through model launches and regulatory alignments for EVs, though specific quarterly figures remain limited and trail domestic volumes substantially. In Q3 2025, Europe benefited from broader EV demand trends, but VinFast's penetration was constrained by brand recognition and service network limitations, contributing to overall international sales that hovered below 10% of global totals.[158] Emerging markets like the Philippines have provided niche growth, where VinFast captured 25% of the local EV segment in Q2 2025 through targeted distribution, yet absolute numbers stayed small relative to Vietnam's scale.[7]| Quarter | Global EV Deliveries | Estimated Domestic Share (Vietnam) | Key International Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Q4 2024 | 53,139 | ~90% (~47,800 units) | U.S. and Europe minimal; focus on ramp-up.[142][46] |
| Q1 2025 | Not specified globally; Jan domestic >10,000 | Predominant | International low; Philippines emerging.[142] |
| Q2 2025 | 35,837 | ~90% | Steady global; VF 3/VF 5 drive domestic.[7] |
| Q3 2025 | 38,195 | ~90% | 74% YoY growth; international <10%.[86][46] |