Vinfast set to expand Tamil Nadu plant for EV buses and scooters: Details

Vietnamese EV maker VinFast has taken another step towards expanding its presence in India by signing an MoU with the Government of Tamil Nadu. As part of the arrangement, the company will gain access to 200 hectares at the SIPCOT Industrial Park near its current Thoothukudi base, paving the way for a major expansion.The move represents a new investment of US$500 million, the second phase of Vinfast’s larger US$2 billion plan for the region. The new phase will focus on building dedicated facilities for electric buses and electric two-wheelers, covering everything from manufacturing and assembly to testing. In return, the state has agreed to provide necessary approvals, necessary infrastructure including electricity, water, roads and waste systems and increased support through various incentives.VinFast’s existing operations span 160 hectares, where it already produces electric cars. The current capacity of the plant is 50,000 vehicles per annum, which is targeted to be continuously increased to 150,000 units per annum. Once the new development is complete, the site will also house production lines for e-buses and e-scooters, significantly broadening its EV portfolio in India.

Pham Sanh Chau, CEO of Vingroup Asia and CEO of Vinfast Asia, said:“The proposed expansion of the Tamil Nadu plant will enable us to expand our product lineup in India from electric cars to electric buses and e-scooters, enabling us to meet the broader needs of customers. We also expect that this initiative will create new job opportunities, improve localization and strengthen the skills of the local workforce. VinFast believes that Tamil Nadu will continue to serve as a strategic hub in our global expansion journey and will drive India’s green mobility in the coming years. Will play an important role in supporting the goals.,TRB Raja, Industries Minister, Government of Tamil Nadu, said:“We welcome the next phase of VinFast’s planned development of electric cars in Tamil Nadu, and the start of electric bus and e-scooter production will further accelerate the green transportation strategy of both Tamil Nadu and India. The State Government is committed to working closely with Vinfast and ensuring favorable conditions during the implementation process, delivering lasting benefits to the community and regional economy. We are dedicated to supporting Vingroup’s success in Tamil Nadu so that their growing ecosystem can continue to generate employment for the people of the state.VinFast currently sells two models in the Indian market – VF6 and VF7 electric SUVs priced at Rs 16.49 lakh and Rs 20.89 lakh (ex-showroom) respectively. The VF6 is powered by a 59.6kWh battery paired with a front-mounted motor, producing 204hp and 310Nm. According to WinFast, on the WLTP cycle, it offers a driving range of up to 480 km and can accelerate from 0-100 kmph in 8.89 seconds. Charging options include support for DC fast charging as well as compatibility with 3.3 kW and 7.2 kW AC units.The VF7 gets both two-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive versions, with both variants powered by a 70.8kWh battery. The 2WD setup features a 204hp front-mounted motor, the same as the VF6, while the AWD variant adds a rear motor, delivering a combined 350hp and 500Nm. On the WLTP cycle, the VF7 is claimed to have a range of 450 km in FWD guise and 431 km with AWD.