San Diego, California, August 21, 2025
News Summary
VinFast, the Vietnamese electric vehicle manufacturer, opened its first authorized dealership in California, VinFast San Diego, on August 19, 2025. This marks a significant shift from its prior direct sales model to a franchise dealership approach across the U.S. The event showcased VinFast’s flagship electric SUVs, the VF 8 and VF 9, with competitive pricing and extensive warranty offerings. The move responds to California’s growing demand for electric vehicles and aligns with VinFast’s expansion strategy, including plans for global outreach.
California has welcomed VinFast, a Vietnamese electric vehicle manufacturer, with the grand opening of its first authorized dealership in the state, VinFast San Diego, on August 19, 2025. This significant event was marked by a turnout of company executives, local media, and prospective customers eager to explore the brand’s offerings.
During the grand opening, attendees were given the chance to test drive VinFast’s two flagship U.S. electric SUVs: the mid-size VF 8 and the full-size VF 9. VinFast San Diego, operating under the Sunroad Automotive Group, officially began operations earlier in the summer and represents a pivotal shift in the company’s retail strategy.
VinFast’s decision to open a franchise dealership in California marks its transition from a direct sales model to a franchise dealership model across all 50 states. As part of its expansion strategy, the company plans to replace its 15 company-owned retail stores in California with franchise dealerships. This shift is driven by California’s status as a significant market due to its potential for electric vehicle growth.
The VinFast San Diego dealership offers a wide array of services, including vehicle sales, warranty support, maintenance, repairs, and access to genuine VinFast parts. Currently, VinFast has established nearly 30 authorized dealerships across 14 states in the U.S., with a notable presence in key markets such as Texas, Florida, New York, and Illinois.
The price points for VinFast’s electric SUVs are competitive, with the VF 8 starting at $39,900 and offering leasing options from $279 per month. The larger VF 9 starts at $62,900, with leasing commencing at $449 a month. Both models come equipped with a 10-year or 125,000-mile warranty for the vehicle, along with a 10-year unlimited mileage warranty for the battery under non-commercial use conditions.
The transition to the franchise model has been ongoing since late 2023 when VinFast signed its first five franchisees while retaining its existing company-owned locations. This strategic move aims to enhance business efficiency, allowing the company to leverage local partners’ reputations and insights into the market.
VinFast is not just concentrating on the U.S. market. The company is expanding globally, targeting new markets in regions like Indonesia, the Philippines, India, and the Middle East. As of now, VinFast is valued at $8.35 billion and reported a preliminary delivery of 11,479 electric vehicles in Vietnam for July.
Community engagement remains a priority for VinFast, highlighted by the generous contribution from Bob Weidinger of the Greater New York Automobile Dealers Association, who donated $25,000 to expand training programs for automotive service students. Despite facing profitability challenges, VinFast shows considerable revenue growth potential, and the positive reception of its vehicles suggests robust interest in electric vehicles within the U.S. market.
Key Takeaways
- VinFast San Diego is the first authorized dealership in California, reflecting the company’s transition to a franchise model.
- California is pivotal for electric vehicle growth, and VinFast aims to expand its presence through franchised dealerships.
- The VF 8 and VF 9 SUVs offer competitive pricing and comprehensive warranty coverage.
- VinFast is also eyeing international markets, signaling global expansion prospects.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the significance of the VinFast San Diego dealership opening?
The opening of the VinFast San Diego dealership marks the company’s shift from a direct sales model to a franchise dealership model in California, aimed at better catering to the local market and enhancing its sales strategy.
What are the price ranges for VinFast’s electric SUVs?
The VF 8 SUV is priced starting at $39,900, while the VF 9 starts at $62,900, with various leasing options available for both models.
What warranties do VinFast vehicles offer?
VinFast vehicles come with a 10-year or 125,000-mile warranty for the vehicle, and a 10-year unlimited mileage warranty for the battery in non-commercial use.
How is VinFast expanding its market presence?
VinFast is expanding its market presence by establishing nearly 30 authorized dealerships across 14 U.S. states and exploring new international markets, including regions in Asia and the Middle East.
Comparison of Key Features of VinFast Electric SUVs
| Feature | VF 8 | VF 9 |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $39,900 | $62,900 |
| Leasing Options | Starts at $279/month | Starts at $449/month |
| Vehicle Warranty | 10 years/125,000 miles | 10 years/125,000 miles |
| Battery Warranty | 10 years unlimited mileage (non-commercial) | 10 years unlimited mileage (non-commercial) |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Investing.com: VinFast Opens First California Dealership
- PR Newswire: VinFast Celebrates Grand Opening
- Auto Remarketing: VinFast’s First California Dealership Opens
- Wikipedia: VinFast
- CBS 8: Vietnamese EV Maker VinFast Launches First California Dealership
Author: STAFF HERE CORONADO
The Coronado Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HERECoronado.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Coronado, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Coronado Island Film Festival, productions at Lamb’s Players Theatre, community workshops at John D. Spreckels Center, and iconic celebrations at Hotel del Coronado. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Coronado Chamber of Commerce and Visit Coronado, plus leading businesses in hospitality, dining, and tourism that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERESanDiego.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
