Vinfast Showcases VF 6 and VF 7 Electric SUVs At Malls Ahead Of India Launch

Vinfast, the ambitious Vietnamese EV maker, has rolled out the red carpet for its upcoming VF 6 and VF 7 electric crossovers by showcasing them in high-footfall malls across major cities. From Bengaluru’s Lulu Mall to the crowded Select Citywalk in Delhi, shoppers are being greeted not just by discounts but by sleek, futuristic-looking electric SUVs from a brand that is still new to most. The mall showcase comes just weeks before the brand is expected to announce full pricing and launch details for its India operations, making this a clear strategy to drum up consumer awareness and curiosity.

Both models are part of Vinfast’s broader playbook to establish its presence outside Southeast Asia and North America. The VF 6 is a compact EV aimed at the growing midsize SUV segment, while the VF 7 is slightly larger and styled more aggressively, clearly intended to appeal to those who find the Hyundai Creta EV or MG ZS EV a bit too familiar. With the EV wave slowly reshaping urban mobility, Vinfast’s decision to go mall-hopping hints at how seriously it is approaching its brand-building efforts.

Smart Positioning Before a Tough Fight

Vinfast has timed this preview campaign well. The VF 6 and VF 7 may not be officially on sale yet, but by bringing them to malls and inviting public interaction, the company is sidestepping the usual showroom-first model in favour of footfall and engagement. For a new entrant trying to build credibility and interest in a crowded and price-sensitive EV market, the strategy is pragmatic.

While pricing is still under wraps, it is expected that the VF 6 will compete in the ₹15–20 lakh bracket and the VF 7 could go higher, possibly entering the ₹20-25 lakh space. This places them squarely in competition with models like the BYD Atto 3, MG ZS EV, Hyundai Kona, and the upcoming Tata Harrier EV. But Vinfast will also have to convince potential buyers to look past its lack of brand familiarity and aftersales presence.

Design and Tech-Led First Impressions

First impressions of the VF 6 and VF 7 suggest that design is one of Vinfast’s key bets. Both models sport sleek LED lighting, a coupe-like silhouette, and distinctive front-end styling that avoids looking derivative. The VF 7, in particular, carries a strong, upright stance with a floating roofline and wraparound LED bar, giving it presence that rivals more established premium brands.

Inside, both cars promise a minimalistic, screen-driven cabin experience. The VF 6 features a large central infotainment display and a digital driver display, with touch-sensitive controls and a flat-bottomed steering wheel adding to the modernity. While detailed specs haven’t been released in full, features like advanced driver assistance systems, over-the-air updates, and fast-charging compatibility are expected to be part of the package.

Challenges Will Come Fast and Early

Vinfast’s biggest hurdle may not be product-related, but perception and support infrastructure. With no dealership network currently in place, and limited clarity on service and spares availability, buyers may hesitate unless the company provides strong assurances. Unlike Tesla, which built its brand first and scaled later, Vinfast does not yet have the global cult status to pull off a slow ramp-up.

There is also the challenge of consumer trust. The brand has seen delays and production hiccups in other markets, including the US, which could raise questions about its readiness to deliver a smooth ownership experience. In a market where brands like Tata, Mahindra, and MG have already established early EV trust, Vinfast will need more than design flair to stand out.

The Mall Display Is Just the Beginning

That said, the brand deserves credit for trying a different approach. Unlike many others who wait for the auto show season to display new products, Vinfast’s direct-to-public strategy via mall activations is refreshing. It allows potential buyers and families to interact with the product in an informal setting, ask questions, take photos, and create social buzz.

If the VF 6 and VF 7 are priced competitively and backed by a robust aftersales plan, Vinfast could well shake up the mid-to-premium EV segment. The products themselves look promising, but the road ahead will be determined by how well the company handles the non-product aspects: trust, transparency, and touchpoints.

The mall displays have set the tone. Now, all eyes are on the next big move: pricing, delivery timelines, and how fast the brand can build confidence where it matters most.