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VinFast VF E34 Spotted In Pune: Entry Into Indian EV Scene
VinFast, a well-known electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, expected to enter the Indian market through the Completely Built Unit (CBU) route before transitioning to local manufacturing. The Indian EV market is poised for significant growth in the coming years, attracting several international brands.
In February, VinFast began constructing its integrated EV manufacturing facility in Tamil Nadu with a groundbreaking ceremony. Initially, two models will be launched – VF e34 and VF 5.
The VinFast VF e34 was recently spotted in India with heavy camouflage, unlike its previous sighting where it had none. Despite the disguise, the distinct design language of VinFast remains evident. Automotive enthusiast Avinash Anushe captured recent spy shots in Pune's Ravet area, Maharashtra.
Exterior Design
The exterior of the VinFast VF e34 closely resembles the Vietnam-spec model. It features sleek LED headlamps, top-mounted DRLs, boomerang-style fog lamp housings, and a prominent bumper. The body panelling is smooth and curvy, aiding in achieving a low drag coefficient.
The side profile includes thick body cladding, 5-spoke alloy wheels, door claddings, body-coloured door handles, chrome window garnish, and body colour pillars.
ORVMs with cameras suggest the presence of a 360° surround view and blind spot monitoring system. The rear sports edgy taillamps in a wraparound and connected format.
Overall, the VinFast VF e34 has a simple yet elegant design. It measures4,300 mm in length, 1,768 mm in width, and 1,615 mm in height with a wheelbase of 2,611 mm. This SUV will compete with upcoming models like Creta EV, Curvv EV, and Maruti eVX.
Interior Features
While the interiors were not revealed in the spy shots, they are expected to be similar to the Vietnamese model. The SUV boasts a 10-inch vertically positioned touchscreen infotainment system and a 7-inch full-colour instrument cluster.
Other features include ventilated fabric seats, air filter, USB ports, Wi-Fi connection, keyless entry, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
Safety and Performance
A comprehensive range of safety features is available on the VinFast VF e34. These include a tyre pressure monitoring system, six airbags, occupant status detection and a rear parking camera.
The ADAS kit offers rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, blind spot detection, rear parking assist, time fencing, remote vehicle location, intrusion alert and self-diagnosis.
The Vietnam-spec model is powered by a 41.9 kWh LFP battery pack connected to a front-mounted single electric motor generating 150 hp and 242 Nm of torque.
It offers drive modes of Eco, Comfort and Sport. The VF e34 can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in under nine seconds with a top speed of 130 km/h. Its certified range is 318.6 km as per NEDC standards. Using a fast charger, it can achieve 10% to 70% charge in approximately 27 minutes.
Future Plans
Once its plant in Tamil Nadu is operational, VinFast will shift to local manufacturing while possibly importing battery packs from Indonesia. This facility will also cater to export markets. Alongside the VF e34, the sub-4-meter compact electric SUV VF 5 will be produced at this plant.
The VF 5 will compete with models like Tata Nexon EV and Mahindra XUV400.VinFast's expansion into the Indian market is strategically significant as it taps into the country's increasing demand for electric vehicles.
By introducing its innovative and stylish lineup, the Vietnamese automaker is poised to compete with established players in the industry. With its focus on affordability and sustainability, VinFast is set to make a strong impact in India's rapidly evolving automotive landscape.
Image Courtesy: Avinash Anushe/Rushlane Spylane
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