VinFast set to drive into India with locally assembled cars

economictimes.indiatimes.com:

electric vehicle maker VinFast will enter the Indian market with locally assembled models, marking a shift from its earlier strategy of initially selling only imported EVs in the world's third-largest automobile market, said a person with knowledge of the plans. The revised approach follows a fast-tracked opening of the company's new factory in Tamil Nadu. The plant is likely to become operational by March 2025, 3 months ahead of schedule, the person said, asking not to be named.

VinFast, the EV arm of Vietnam's biggest conglomerate Vingroup, is expected to launch its first locally assembled car during the 2025 festive season. It is likely to sell its vehicles in the ?25-30 lakh range, placing them in the premium affordable segment of India's burgeoning market for EVs. The models are likely to have a range of 300-500 kilometres.

VinFast's move to enter the Indian market through the completely knocked down (CKD) route will help the maker of VFe-34, VF6, VF7 car models save on high import duties and offer its products at competitive prices. India levies an import duty of 100% on imported car models having a CIF (cost, insurance, freight) value of more than $40,000 and 70% on imported models with a CIF value of less than $40,000. CKD kits attract 15% duty.

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«The local assembly of models gives greater confidence to suppliers, dealers, and the buyers. The company will rather use what it saves on duties in brand building and