Affordable Off-Road EV Hits the U.S. for Less Than $20,000

VinFast Unveils VF3
Ultra-Mini Off-Road EV
Estimated Price Less Than $20,000

Developing electric vehicles (EVs) tends to be easier than internal combustion engines as long as there is a good supply of electric motors and batteries. As such, developing countries focus more on EV development than internal combustion engines. Among them, VinFast, a Vietnamese EV company, is emerging as a new powerhouse in the EV market.

In June, VinFast unveiled the VF3, a small off-road EV. It is known to be priced very affordably, and it has been reported that the company recently held a meeting with dealers in the United States to discuss the sale of the VF3.

What is VinFast VF3?

The VinFast VF3 is an ultra-mini EV with a total length of 3,114mm (approximately 122.6 inches), considerably shorter than the Morning car. The design captures the charm of a small car body while also embodying the tough charm of an off-roader. Although the body is small, it has 16-inch wheels and a relatively high ground clearance, making it capable of handling various terrains. While the specifications of the electric motor and battery are not yet known, it can travel 285km (approximately 177 miles) on a single charge, and its 0-60mph acceleration is reported to be 12 seconds. The VF3 is expected to be released in two models, Eco and, and the price is known to be 458 million VND (approximately $20,000).

Negotiating with Dealers for U.S. Sales

According to the automotive specialist foreign media Carscoops, VinFast reportedly held two meetings with U.S. dealers in October to discuss the sale of the VF3 in the U.S. Approximately 100 U.S. dealers attended the meeting, and most of them viewed the sale of the VF3 positively. The dealers were particularly interested in the vehicle’s price. It is expected to be priced under $20,000, and with the use of leases and other methods to receive a $7,500 EV tax deduction, it could be purchased for $12,500.

Set to Launch in Q3 Next Year
Could Be the Cheapest EV in the U.S.

The VinFast VF3 is scheduled to begin delivering to its first customers in Vietnam in the third quarter of next year. Therefore, the exact specifications, such as specs and options, are expected to be revealed then. VinFast anticipates that the VF3, with its affordable price, will become a new national car for the Vietnamese people and contribute significantly to the distribution of cars. If the VF3 also enters the U.S. market, it will set a record as the cheapest EV in the U.S. The most affordable EV in the U.S. is the Chevrolet Bolt, priced at $27,495.

By. Lee Jinwoong