2023 Vinfast VF 8 Plus

Overview

The 2023 Vinfast VF 8 Plus represents the entry of the Vietnamese manufacturer Vinfast into the North American electric vehicle market. As a mid-size electric crossover, the VF 8 is designed to compete in the high-volume SUV segment, utilizing a dual-motor all-wheel-drive configuration to provide performance and utility. The vehicle is built on a dedicated electric platform developed to accommodate various battery capacities and powertrain outputs, with the Plus trim serving as the higher-performance variant within the model lineup.

Engineering for the VF 8 involved collaboration with global automotive suppliers and design houses, most notably Pininfarina, which handled the exterior styling. The vehicle features a minimalist interior centered around a large infotainment display, reflecting current industry trends toward software-defined vehicle architectures. Manufacturing for the North American market initially took place at the company’s facility in Hai Phong, Vietnam, as the company established its logistics and service infrastructure across the United States.

Market positioning for the VF 8 Plus focuses on value and technology, with a strategy that includes a unique battery leasing program intended to lower the initial purchase price for consumers. Since its introduction, the model has been subject to rigorous scrutiny regarding its software stability and real-world range performance. It remains a significant development in the company’s efforts to establish a long-term presence in the global automotive sector.

Vehicle Overview
Brand	Vinfast
Model	VF 8 Plus
Model Year	2023
Generation	1st Generation
Trim	Plus
Body Style	SUV
Vehicle Segment	Mid-size Crossover
Vehicle Class	Special Purpose Vehicle 4WD
Market	USA
Platform	Vinfast BEV Platform
Assembly Plant	Hai Phong, Vietnam
Country of Origin	Vietnam
Production Start	2022
Production End	–
VIN Identifier	–
Base MSRP	$49,000
Destination Charge	$1,200
Total MSRP	$50,200
Powertrain
Powertrain Type	Electric
Horsepower	402 hp
Torque	457 lb-ft
Drivetrain	All-Wheel Drive
Transmission	Automatic (A1)
Final Drive Ratio	–
Axle Ratio	–
Fuel Economy
Fuel Type	Electricity
EPA City MPGe (for EV/PHEV)	82
EPA Highway MPGe (for EV/PHEV)	78
EPA Combined MPGe (for EV/PHEV)	80
Annual Fuel Cost	$850
CO₂ Emissions	0 g/mile
Electric Vehicle System
Battery Supplier	VinES
Battery Chemistry	Lithium-ion
Gross Battery Capacity (kWh)	87.7
Usable Battery Capacity (kWh)	82.0
System Voltage	400V
Number of Motors	2
Combined Output	300 kW
Combined Torque	457 lb-ft
EPA Range (Miles)	264
On-board Charger Power (kW)	11
AC Charging Power	11 kW
DC Fast Charging Power	150 kW
Charge Port	CCS1
Charging Standard (CCS1/NACS)	CCS1
DC Charge Time (10-80%)	24 minutes
Vehicle-to-Load (V2L)	–
Vehicle-to-Home (V2H)	–
Heat Pump	Yes
Performance
0-60 mph	5.3 seconds
Top Speed	124 mph
Dimensions & Capacities
Length (in)	187.0
Width (Without Mirrors) (in)	76.1
Height (in)	65.6
Wheelbase (in)	116.1
Curb Weight (lbs)	5,860
Towing Capacity (lbs)	–
Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats) (cu ft)	13.5
Cargo Volume (Max) (cu ft)	48.0
Technology & Connectivity
Infotainment Display	15.6-inch Touchscreen
Apple CarPlay	Yes
Android Auto	Yes
Audio System	Premium Audio
OTA Updates	Yes
Warranty & Ownership
Basic Warranty	10 years / 125,000 miles
EV Battery Warranty	10 years / Unlimited miles
Specs.Autos Exclusive Data
Frunk Capacity (cu ft)	2.7
Safety Recall Count	–

Consumer Insights & Market Appeal

The 2023 Vinfast VF 8 Plus enters the market as a bold, albeit unproven, contender in the electric SUV space. Prospective buyers should note that while the vehicle offers a generous warranty and a high level of standard equipment, early production units have faced criticism regarding software interface responsiveness and suspension tuning. Reliability remains a primary consideration for used-car shoppers, as the service network is still in its infancy compared to established manufacturers. Despite these hurdles, the VF 8 Plus presents a unique value proposition for those seeking a high-output, all-wheel-drive electric vehicle at a competitive price point, provided they are comfortable with the risks associated with a new brand’s initial market entry.