VinFast has revealed its first right-hand drive vehicles, but we’re still no closer to knowing if or when the Vietnamese car-maker will launch in Australia.
A full range of right-hook EVs debuted officially at the Indonesia International Motor Show yesterday, comprising the VF 5, VF e34, VF 6, VF 7, VF 8 and VF 9 crossovers and SUVs.
Indonesia will be VinFast’s first RHD market and its entry there later this year is described as the “next step” in the ambitious auto brand’s global expansion plans, which have already seen it set up shop in Europe and North America.
But VinFast is yet to confirm any plans to sell cars in Australia, where several of its electric models and concepts were designed and where the company abandoned its Melbourne engineering operations and put the former GM Holden proving ground at Lang Lang up for sale due to COVID restrictions in 2021.
VinFast intends to establish a dedicated manufacturing base in Indonesia specifically to cater for that market, with a projected output of 50,000 units per annum.
Logic suggests this facility will serve as the core RHD production facility for other right-hook markets in the region – including Australia – as they come online.
“To ensure convenient charging, VinFast will partner with local suppliers to establish a nationwide charging network,” a company spokesperson said.
“This ambitious plan will enable seamless electric mobility for Indonesian customers, significantly boosting sustainable transportation adoption in the market.
“The official launch in the Indonesian market, marked by this event, signifies the next step in VinFast's global expansion and underscores its dedication to fostering sustainable transportation locally and globally.”
carsales has contacted VinFast for an update on the Australian timeline and will update this report when we receive a response.