San Diego, California, August 21, 2025
News Summary
VinFast celebrated the opening of its first authorized dealership, VinFast San Diego, on August 19, 2025, enhancing its presence in the U.S. electric vehicle market. Attendees experienced test drives of the mid-size VF 8 and full-size VF 9 SUVs, while the dealership aims to transition to a franchise model to optimize business operations. With ambitious plans for expansion, VinFast focuses on local markets and community engagement, demonstrating a commitment to the growing electric vehicle sector.
California witnessed the grand opening of VinFast’s first authorized dealership on August 19, 2025, marking a significant milestone for the Vietnamese electric vehicle manufacturer. The VinFast San Diego dealership aims to enhance the company’s footprint in the lucrative U.S. market, particularly focusing on California, which is known for its rapid growth in electric vehicle adoption.
The grand opening event was attended by company executives, local media, and consumers, who were invited to explore and test drive VinFast’s two flagship electric SUVs — the mid-size VF 8 and the full-size VF 9. These models are critical to VinFast’s strategy, both priced competitively with the VF 8 starting at $39,900 and the VF 9 starting at $62,900. Leasing options are also available, starting at $279 monthly for the VF 8 and $449 for the VF 9.
VinFast San Diego is part of the Sunroad Automotive Group and began operations earlier in the summer as a precursor to its official opening. This dealership represents VinFast’s planned shift from a direct sales model to a franchise dealership model, paving the way for growth across all 50 states. The company is committed to transitioning its 15 existing company-owned retail stores in California to franchise dealerships, with hopes of optimizing business efficacy and leveraging local market insights.
As California is identified as a top priority market for VinFast, the San Diego location is poised to offer extensive services, including sales, warranty support, maintenance, repairs, and genuine VinFast parts. Since the transition began with the signing of its first five franchisees in late 2023, VinFast has made significant strides, establishing nearly 30 authorized dealerships across 14 states, including key markets like Texas, Florida, New York, and Illinois.
Further aligning with its ambitious expansion strategy, VinFast is also exploring new markets beyond North America and Europe, targeting countries such as Indonesia, the Philippines, India, and the Middle East.
The positive response received during the grand opening indicates a strong consumer interest in electric vehicles within the U.S. market. VinFast is currently valued at $8.35 billion and had preliminary domestic deliveries of 11,479 electric vehicles in Vietnam for July. While the company faces profitability challenges, assessments indicate promising revenue growth potential, suggesting that consumer support for electric vehicles is robust.
In a show of community investment, Bob Weidinger from the Greater New York Automobile Dealers Association donated $25,000 to support training for automotive service students, exemplifying VinFast’s commitment to engaging with local communities and preparing the next generation of automotive professionals.
The opening of VinFast San Diego underscores the company’s strategic expansion goals and highlights its efforts to adapt to the competitive U.S. automotive market.
Key Features of VinFast’s Offerings
| Feature | VF 8 | VF 9 |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $39,900 | $62,900 |
| Monthly Lease Start | $279 | $449 |
| Warranty (Vehicle) | 10 years / 125,000 miles | 10 years / 125,000 miles |
| Warranty (Battery) | 10 years / Unlimited mileage (non-commercial) | 10 years / Unlimited mileage (non-commercial) |
FAQ
What is VinFast?
VinFast is a Vietnamese electric vehicle manufacturer aiming to expand its market presence in the U.S. and other countries.
Where is the first authorized dealership in California located?
The first authorized dealership, VinFast San Diego, is located in San Diego, California.
What electric vehicles does VinFast offer?
VinFast offers two primary electric SUVs in the U.S.: the mid-size VF 8 and the full-size VF 9.
What is the starting price for VinFast’s SUVs?
The starting price for the VF 8 is $39,900, while the VF 9 starts at $62,900.
What kind of warranties are provided with VinFast vehicles?
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 (non-commercial use).
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Investing.com: VinFast Opens First California Dealership in San Diego
- Wikipedia: VinFast
- PR Newswire: VinFast Celebrates Grand Opening of First California Dealership
- Google Search: VinFast dealership California
- CBS 8: Vietnamese EV Maker VinFast Launch First California Dealership
- Google Scholar: VinFast electric vehicles
- The EV Report: VinFast Opens First California Dealership
- Encyclopedia Britannica: VinFast
Author: Anaheim Staff Writer
Anaheim Staff Writer The Anaheim Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREAnaheim.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Anaheim, Orange 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 major conventions at the Anaheim Convention Center, including NAMM and VidCon, exciting games at Angel Stadium and Honda Center, and developments at Disneyland Resort Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Anaheim Chamber of Commerce and Visit Anaheim, plus leading businesses in hospitality, entertainment, and innovation that power the local economy As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECostaMesa.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
