Summary
- VinFast VF8 is not recommended for purchase, even at a low lease rate
- Despite initial flaws, VinFast has shown a capacity for quick adaptation and improvement
- The VF8 model has seen advancements in range, horsepower, and overall build quality
- However, the vehicle still faces challenges with glitchy software and subpar driving dynamics
- For VinFast to succeed in the U.S. market, it must focus on quality, software development, and customer feedback.
Article
The article discusses why consumers should avoid purchasing a VinFast VF8 despite any enticing lease deals. The vehicle’s starting price of $46,000 is deemed unreasonable, and the overall quality of the model is criticized. Despite these shortcomings, the article suggests that VinFast should not be discounted entirely, as the company has shown potential for adaptation and improvement in the U.S. market.
The review highlights some positive aspects of the VinFast VF8, including improved build quality, ride comfort, software design, stability, and driver assistance systems. The vehicle’s specifications, such as an 87.7-kWh lithium-ion battery, 235 miles of range, 402 horsepower, and dual-motor all-wheel drive, are considered acceptable upgrades from previous models. However, the article points out concerns regarding the vehicle’s low energy efficiency and glitchy in-car software.
On the downside, the article emphasizes various issues with the VinFast VF8, including unreliable software, error messages, system freezes, glitchy touch screen, and inconsistent push-button shifter. The driving experience is criticized for being subpar, with poor body control in corners, stiff suspension, and unreliable lane-keeping and driver assistance programs. The company’s software suite, which includes a streaming app and mobile games, is also highlighted as underdeveloped and problematic.
Despite the vehicle feeling relatively well-made and having a decent interior, the VinFast VF8 is ultimately seen as lacking in overall quality and innovation. The article points out that even with attractive lease deals, the vehicle’s shortcomings outweigh any potential benefits. Additionally, the company’s reputation is tarnished by reports of stifling criticism and questionable business practices.
The article concludes by acknowledging the challenges faced by VinFast as a newcomer in the competitive U.S. market. It highlights the importance of learning from mistakes, scaling improvements effectively, and being open to feedback in order to succeed. While the company has shown some progress in product development, it still needs to address key issues such as software quality, product refinement, and overall customer satisfaction to establish itself as a viable competitor in the EV market.
Read the full article here
