Vietnamese EV giant VinFast launches its first Indian showroom in Surat, Gujarat, signaling fierce competition in India’s booming electric vehicle market
India’s electric vehicle (EV) landscape is heating up. Just weeks after Tesla’s high-profile debut in Mumbai, Vietnamese EV maker VinFast has made a bold move by opening its first showroom in Surat, Gujarat, on July 27, 2025.
This marks a pivotal moment for VinFast India, as the brand aims to capture a slice of the country’s rapidly growing EV market. The anticipation is high as VinFast is set to launch a manufacturing plant in Tamil Nadu, a move that could significantly impact the Indian EV market. VinFast is positioning itself as a key player in the industry. But what does this mean for Indian consumers and the EV industry?
Why VinFast’s Entry Matters for India
VinFast’s arrival signals a shift in India’s EV ecosystem. The Surat showroom, spanning 3,000 square feet, is more than a retail space; it’s a statement of intent.
By establishing a local presence, VinFast India is tapping into the government’s push for green mobility, aiming for 30% EV adoption by 2030. Unlike Tesla, which relies on imports, VinFast’s commitment to local assembly in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, could lower costs and align with India’s EV policies.
This move promises job creation, sustainable infrastructure, and affordable EVs for Indian buyers. How will this reshape consumer choices in a price-sensitive market?
VF 6 and VF 7: Models and Pricing Unveiled
VinFast India is showcasing two premium electric SUVs: the VF 6 and VF 7. The VF 6, a compact family-oriented SUV, features a panoramic roof and advanced driver assistance systems, with an estimated price of ₹18–24 lakh.
The VF 7, a mid-size premium SUV, offers a spacious cabin and cutting-edge tech, priced around ₹50 lakh. Both models, designed for right-hand drive, are now open for pre-bookings at ₹21,000 via VinFastAuto.in. With local production starting in August 2025, can VinFast India deliver value that rivals established brands?
Facing Tesla and Local Giants in a Crowded Market
Competition in India’s EV space is fierce. Tesla’s Model Y, priced at ₹60 lakh, targets the luxury segment but faces high import duties. Meanwhile, local players such as Tata Motors and Mahindra dominate the market with affordable models.
VinFast India, however, blends premium offerings with localization, potentially undercutting Tesla’s pricing. Partnerships with RoadGrid and BatX Energies bolster its charging and recycling infrastructure. Yet, with only 2.5% of India’s car sales being EVs in 2024, can VinFast carve out a niche against Tesla’s brand power and local expertise?
VinFast India’s ambitious plan includes 35 dealerships across 27 cities by year-end. This expansion, coupled with a $500 million investment in Tamil Nadu, underscores its long-term vision. As India races toward a greener future, VinFast’s entry could spark innovation, lower prices, and expand options for consumers.
Will this Vietnamese brand redefine India’s EV journey, or will it struggle against entrenched rivals? Only time will tell, but the stage is set for an electrifying showdown.
