VinFast Philippines’ First Full Year Shows How EV Ownership Is Becoming More Accessible for Filipinos

VinFast’s first full year in the Philippines was anything but quiet. Rather than waiting for electric vehicle adoption to happen naturally, the brand spent 2025 actively shaping the conditions needed for Filipinos to feel confident about going electric, on their own terms, in their own daily routines.

From expanding dealerships and service access to rolling out charging infrastructure and ownership guarantees, VinFast approached the local market with a clear mindset: hesitation disappears when everyday concerns are addressed early. Throughout the year, products, partnerships, and policies moved in sync, building not just awareness, but reassurance.

“We are still in the early stages of setting up operations in the Philippines,” said Antonio “Toti” Zara, CEO of VinFast Southeast Asia, during a media event this year. “Right now, we’re building the organization, the dealer network, and the ecosystem. Our focus is translating that ecosystem into tangible benefits for Filipino consumers.”

As months passed, those benefits became increasingly visible, on city streets, in daily commutes, and in how local media began talking about the brand.

Vehicles Designed for Real Filipino Roads

VinFast’s Philippine lineup was curated with everyday use in mind. Compact models like the VF 3 and VF 5 catered to urban driving, tight parking, and short daily trips, while the VF 6 and VF 7 offered added space and comfort suited for families and professionals. Sitting at the top of the range, the VF 9 brought premium features and full-size capability into the picture.

Despite being a relatively young automaker, VinFast’s lineup drew attention for its consistent design language and solid build quality.

“From the exterior to the interior, VinFast has its own design language. It doesn’t feel copied,” shared one media reviewer after testing multiple VinFast vehicles in the Philippines and Vietnam. “Even when you ride in them as Green GSM taxis, the cars always feel solid. That consistency gives you confidence.”

That perception was further reinforced in October, when Philippine media visited VinFast’s facilities in Vietnam. After test-driving models including the VF 3, VF 6, and VF 9, one outlet noted a significant improvement in overall quality, highlighting better materials, tighter panel gaps, and a more refined feel.

Among the lineup, the VF 6 stood out as a balanced crossover offering the “right ride height” and an interior that blends affordability with premium touches, an important distinction for one of VinFast Philippines’ newer launches.

Bringing After-Sales Support Closer to Home

Beyond the vehicles themselves, VinFast addressed one of the biggest concerns among Filipino EV buyers: service accessibility. Instead of limiting after-sales support to dealerships, the brand partnered with established service chains including Motech, JIGA, Goodyear Philippines, Tire King, Power Tread, and Marcjan Cavite.

By accrediting these partners to handle preventive maintenance, warranty repairs, diagnostics, and software updates, VinFast worked toward a nationwide network of more than 100 authorized service locations.

“This partnership is the first of its kind,” said Johann Rommel Naguiat, President and CEO of Motech Automotive Philippines. “With Motech’s network of stores and reputation in local communities, VinFast customers can drive with confidence, anywhere, at any time.”

Ownership anxiety was further reduced with the introduction of VinFast’s Residual Value Guarantee program. Launched in 2025, the policy guarantees up to 90 percent of a vehicle’s original value after six months, followed by a fixed depreciation schedule over three years.

“In a market where resale value is often part of the buying decision, this changes the conversation,” Zara shared at the program’s launch. Media coverage described the move as unusually bold, especially within the local EV space where resale concerns remain common.

EVs in Everyday Life

VinFast’s ecosystem became highly visible with the June launch of Green GSM, the country’s first all-electric taxi fleet operating across Metro Manila. Using VinFast vehicles built specifically for commercial use, the fleet introduced EVs to commuters through daily, real-world experience—quiet rides, smooth acceleration, predictable fares, and zero tailpipe emissions.

For many passengers, it marked their first encounter with an electric vehicle.

“The Philippines marks a strategic chapter in our Go Green Global journey,” said Nguyễn Văn Thanh, Global CEO of GSM. “Our goal is to ignite a real transformation toward cleaner, smarter, and more socially responsible mobility.”

Charging infrastructure expanded alongside fleet deployment. VinFast customers continue to benefit from a free charging program at dedicated stations operated by V-GREEN, valid until May 1, 2027, effectively offering zero fuel cost during the period.

By mid-2025, VinFast Philippines officially joined the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines (CAMPI), reinforcing its role within the local automotive industry. The brand also engaged communities through initiatives like “Pilipinas – Your Vote, Your Design for the Future Filipino Drive,” which attracted over 20,000 votes and more than 100 design submissions nationwide.

Following the Cebu earthquake in October, VinFast and Green GSM provided financial assistance and on-ground support, underscoring their long-term commitment to the country.

Capping off the year, VinFast Philippines received the Legacy Award for Excellence in Strategic Mobility Innovation, recognizing its integrated approach across products, infrastructure, and community involvement.

Looking Ahead to 2026

As 2025 closes, VinFast enters the new year with vehicles on the road, nationwide service access expanding, charging infrastructure scaling, and ownership risks significantly reduced. Media sentiment has evolved from early skepticism to more detailed evaluations of execution and progress.

“We’re rewriting the rules in aftersales, service accessibility, and value guarantees,” Zara said. “Our task is to make EV ownership an easier decision for Filipino consumers.”