Vietnamese electric vehicle manufacturer VinFast is preparing to enter the Indian two-wheeler market in the second half of 2026. Unlike its global offerings, the upcoming electric scooters will be developed specifically for Indian consumers, following a year of extensive market research into local commuting patterns and infrastructure requirements.
Manufacturing and Production Scale
The company plans to establish a dedicated assembly line for electric two-wheelers at its existing facility in Tamil Nadu. While VinFast’s four-wheeler operations are currently scaling toward an annual capacity of 150,000 units, the two-wheeler division is being positioned for significantly higher volumes.
- Long-term production capacity target: One million units annually
- Location: Dedicated facility within the Tamil Nadu plant
- Launch Timeline: Second half of 2026
Market Strategy and Localization
According to Pham Sanh Chau, CEO of VinFast Asia, the brand is focusing on a value-oriented approach to remain competitive in the price-sensitive Indian market. To achieve this, the manufacturer is currently in negotiations with domestic suppliers to indigenize key components, including battery packs.
The development process has prioritized several local factors to ensure product-market fit:
- Adaptation to regional charging infrastructure
- Optimization for typical daily commute distances
- Competitive pricing through high levels of localization
- Eligibility for government subsidies such as the PLI and PM E-DRIVE schemes
Vinfast Two-Wheelers in Vietnam
As VinFast prepares for its anticipated entry into the Indian electric two-wheeler market in 2026, its established portfolio in Vietnam serves as a direct blueprint for the technology and variety likely to arrive on Indian shores. The Vietnamese lineup is currently divided into high-performance, mid-range, and budget-friendly segments, all supported by a sophisticated battery-swapping ecosystem.
The following models represent the core of VinFast’s current offerings in Vietnam:
High-Performance and Premium Models
These scooters are designed for power and long-distance commuting, often featuring mid-mounted motors and advanced safety systems like ABS.
- Theon S: The flagship performance model, capable of reaching speeds of 99 km/h. It utilizes a 7,100W motor and offers a range of approximately 150 km per charge.
- Vento S: A premium lifestyle scooter with a side-mounted motor. It provides a top speed of 89 km/h and a range of 160 km, balancing style with urban performance.
Mid-Range and Mass-Market Favorites
These models are the high-volume sellers in Vietnam, utilizing LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate) battery technology for increased safety and longevity.
- Klara S (v2): Known for its European-inspired design, the Klara S is a staple in the lineup. It reaches 78 km/h and offers one of the most competitive ranges at nearly 194 km.
- Feliz S: A budget-conscious high-speed option that offers a 78 km/h top speed and a large 25-liter storage compartment, making it a practical choice for daily utility.
2026 “Next-Gen” Innovations
Recently introduced in Vietnam, these models focus heavily on VinFast’s new battery-swapping infrastructure, a feature that could be a significant differentiator in the Indian market.
- Viper: A new addition featuring a aggressive design and integrated smart-key tracking. It is optimized for the V-Green swapping network with a top speed of 70 km
- Evo200 / Evo200 Lite: These represent the entry point for many users. The standard Evo200 offers a range of over 200 km, while the “Lite” version is speed-restricted to 49 km/h, targeting younger riders or those without a full motorcycle license.
- Amio: A compact, pedal-assisted electric scooter designed for short-range urban hops and students.
The Infrastructure Strategy
In Vietnam, VinFast has moved toward a “Battery-as-a-Service” model. This separates the cost of the battery from the vehicle, significantly lowering the initial purchase price. Riders can opt for monthly subscription plans or utilize the V-Green swapping cabinets, which are projected to reach 45,000 units by the end of 2026. This infrastructure-heavy approach is expected to be a cornerstone of VinFast’s strategy as it scales its operations in India.
