VINFAST SIGNS FIRST DEALERSHIP IN CALIFORNIA

Rhea-AI Summary

VinFast (VFS) has announced its first authorized dealership in California, marking a significant milestone in its U.S. expansion strategy. Located in San Diego and operated by Sunroad Automotive Group, the dealership will offer VinFast's VF 8 and VF 9 electric SUVs, along with comprehensive after-sales services. The company is transitioning to a franchise dealership model across all 50 states and has already established over 30 authorized dealerships in 15 key states. VinFast's competitive pricing includes the VF 8 starting at $39,900 and the VF 9 at $62,900, with attractive leasing options and 0% financing. The company offers an industry-leading 10-year/125,000-mile vehicle warranty and 10-year unlimited mileage battery warranty. This expansion is part of VinFast's broader global strategy, which includes recent entry into markets like Indonesia, Philippines, India, and the Middle East.

Positive

• Establishment of first California dealership in strategic San Diego location
• Strong nationwide presence with over 30 authorized dealerships across 15 key states
• Competitive pricing with VF 8 starting at $39,900 and attractive leasing options from $269/month
• Industry-leading 10-year warranty for both vehicle and battery
• Strategic transition to franchise dealership model for improved business efficiency

Negative

• None.

Insights

Automotive Distribution Strategist

VinFast's first California dealership marks strategic shift to franchise model, enhancing market access in crucial EV-friendly state.

VinFast's announcement of its first California dealership in San Diego represents a pivotal strategic evolution in the company's U.S. distribution approach. This development marks a significant acceleration in their transition from direct-to-consumer sales to a comprehensive franchise dealership model across all 50 states.

The choice of California for expansion is particularly strategic. The state leads the nation in EV adoption with infrastructure and regulatory frameworks that strongly favor electric vehicles. By partnering with Sunroad Automotive Group, an established dealer with deep local market knowledge, VinFast gains immediate credibility and operational expertise in this critical market.

This dealership opening follows VinFast's late-2023 strategic pivot away from the direct sales model initially employed. The company has rapidly built a network of over 30 dealerships across 15 states, indicating aggressive implementation of this distribution strategy. The franchise model allows VinFast to expand market presence without the capital expenditure of company-owned locations while leveraging dealers' existing customer relationships and service capabilities.

The competitive pricing structure ($39,900 for VF 8 and $62,900 for VF 9) positions their vehicles in the mid-market segment, while their industry-leading 10-year/125,000-mile warranty addresses potential consumer concerns about adopting a relatively unknown brand. The $269/month lease options and 0% financing incentives further reduce barriers to purchase.

This California expansion represents the logical progression of VinFast's market penetration strategy, addressing the dual challenges of building brand awareness and establishing service infrastructure that all new automotive entrants face in the highly competitive U.S. market.

IRVINE, Calif., June 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- VinFast today announced the Company's first authorized dealership in California. This collaboration represents a key milestone in VinFast's global strategy to expand its sales model through a robust network of dealerships across the country. VinFast is committed to delivering high-quality products and exceptional services to American consumers, steadfastly pursuing its goal of driving the green transportation revolution in the U.S.

Strategically located in San Diego, VinFast's newest dealership is set to officially begin operations this month. This location will provide California consumers with the opportunity to explore, test drive, and purchase or lease VinFast's VF 8, 5-passenger electric, mid-size SUV and the VF 9 full-size, 3-row, 7-passenger electric SUV.

Furthermore, VinFast San Diego, part of the Sunroad Automotive Group, will offer comprehensive after-sales services, including warranty support, maintenance and repair, and genuine VinFast parts.

VinFast is committed to providing extensive support and collaboration, notably through in-depth training programs for the VinFast San Diego team. The Company's objective is to cultivate a highly skilled workforce possessing comprehensive expertise in VinFast products, maintenance procedures, and repair processes.

VinFast is accelerating the development of its dealership network across the U.S. and California has been identified as a top priority state because of its significant EV growth potential. In addition to the store in San Diego, VinFast is actively seeking and evaluating opportunities with other potential dealerships throughout California.

To optimize operations and strengthen its market position, VinFast introduced a dealership sales model in late 2023. Recognizing the distinct advantages of this distribution channel, the company recently made a strategic decision to fully transition to a franchise dealership model in all 50 states, aiming to maximize business efficiency. To date, VinFast has established a robust network of more than 30 authorized dealerships, with a strong presence across 15 key states in the U.S., including California, Texas, Connecticut, Florida, Illinois, New York and others.

"We're incredibly proud to be VinFast's first dealership partner in California, and to join this dynamic Vietnamese brand in shaping an exciting new chapter in the global electric vehicle revolution," said Mr. Paul Fillmore, General Manager of VinFast San Diego, part of the Sunroad Automotive Group. "We believe in VinFast's strong potential to make a lasting impact in the North American market. At Sunroad, we're committed to being a trusted and strategic partner-working together to create mutual value, drive growth, and deliver high-quality vehicles along with exceptional experiences to our customers."

Mr. Mike Nolte, Vice President of Sales, VinFast US, added: "Adding our first dealership in California signifies VinFast's next strategic step in our business model transition and the development of our global dealership network. This partnership underscores our ambition to expand our reach and optimize all operations to deliver smart, high-quality products and superior after-sales service to American consumers. By leveraging the strong reputation, internal capabilities, robust infrastructure, and deep understanding of the local market held by our partners, VinFast is committed to expanding effectively within the U.S. market, driving towards a future of sustainable growth and operational excellence."

With a pioneering vision to accelerate the green transition and make EVs more accessible, VinFast is implementing compelling sales policies in the U.S. market. The Company's flagship all-electric SUVs are now available at competitive prices. The VF 8 is offered at a MSRP of $39,900 for the Eco trim and $44,900 for the Plus trim, with leasing programs starting from as low as $269/month. The full-size electric SUV, the VF 9, is also competitively priced, with an MSRP starting at $62,900 and leasing programs starting at $449/month. Both models are eligible for an attractive 0% interest financing.

Notably, all VinFast EV models in the U.S. benefit from an industry-leading warranty: 10 years or 125,000 miles for the vehicle and a 10-year unlimited mileage warranty for the battery under non-commercial use.

Building upon its established presence in North America and Europe, VinFast continues its global expansion journey by entering high-potential new markets in Indonesia, the Philippines, India, and the Middle East. With a diverse product range spanning from the compact VF 3 mini SUV to the flagship VF 9 large SUV, VinFast has become the best-selling automotive brand in Vietnam.

The company is committed to flexibly adapting its strategies and business objectives based on in-depth market analysis and macroeconomic conditions, while remaining steadfast in its pioneering vision to drive the global green revolution.

About VinFast

VinFast (NASDAQ: VFS), a subsidiary of Vingroup JSC, one of Vietnam's largest conglomerates, is a pure-play electric vehicle ("EV") manufacturer with the mission of making EVs accessible to everyone. VinFast's product lineup today includes a wide range of electric SUVs, e-scooters, e-bikes, and e-buses. VinFast is currently embarking on its next growth phase through rapid expansion of its distribution and dealership network globally and increasing its manufacturing capacities with a focus on key markets across North America, Europe and Asia. Learn more at https://www.vinfastauto.us/

About Sunroad Automotive

Sunroad Automotive is powered by more than 1,500 passionate team members, all united by one mission: to sell and service great vehicles with unmatched integrity and care. As a proudly San Diego-owned company, we've been earning the trust of local drivers for over 40 years by delivering superior quality, outstanding customer service, and an exceptional ownership experience.

We represent 14 leading automotive brands across nine convenient locations, offering one of the most diverse and extensive vehicle inventories in the region. With over 30,000 vehicles sold annually, we're proud to be the destination where thousands of car searches end in satisfaction.

Excellence is the standard that drives us—it's what sets us apart and forms the foundation of the Sunroad brand. Whether you're shopping for a new or pre-owned vehicle, from entry-level models to luxury brands, your journey with us is supported by an entire team committed to your satisfaction from start to finish—and beyond.

At Sunroad Automotive, your road to the perfect vehicle starts here. Because when one of us is working for you, we all are.

All roads lead to Sunroad.

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SOURCE Vinfast Auto LLC

FAQ

Where is VinFast's first California dealership located and when will it open?

VinFast's first California dealership is located in San Diego and is set to begin operations in June 2025.

How many VinFast dealerships are currently operating in the United States?

VinFast has established over 30 authorized dealerships across 15 key states in the U.S.

What is the starting price for VinFast VF 8 and VF 9 electric vehicles?

The VF 8 starts at $39,900 for the Eco trim, while the VF 9 starts at $62,900, with leasing options from $269/month and $449/month respectively.

What warranty does VinFast offer on its vehicles and batteries?

VinFast offers a 10-year/125,000-mile vehicle warranty and a 10-year unlimited mileage battery warranty for non-commercial use.

Which VinFast models will be available at the San Diego dealership?

The dealership will offer the VF 8 (5-passenger electric mid-size SUV) and the VF 9 (7-passenger full-size electric SUV).