BUSINESSWORTH.US – The electric vehicle (EV) industry is experiencing rapid growth, and Indonesia is no exception. As the demand for affordable and efficient EVs rises, automakers are introducing competitive models to capture the market.
One of the latest entrants is the VinFast VF 3, a compact electric car from Vietnam’s automotive giant, VinFast. With its official debut set for the Indonesia International Motor Show (IIMS) 2025, this model is expected to be a strong contender against the well-established Wuling Air EV.
What is the VinFast VF 3?
VinFast VF 3 is an affordable, compact electric car designed for urban mobility. Priced at approximately IDR 160 million (excluding battery) and around IDR 190 million (including battery), it offers a budget-friendly alternative to existing EV models. Potential buyers can secure a unit with a booking fee of IDR 3 million, making it accessible to a wider audience. While the pricing remains an estimate, the vehicle is set to launch in February 2025, with the first deliveries expected in March 2025.
VinFast VF 3 vs. Wuling Air EV: How Do They Compare?
1. Size and Design
One of the key distinctions between the VinFast VF 3 and the Wuling Air EV is their size. The VF 3 measures 3,190 mm x 1,679 mm x 1,622 mm, making it slightly larger than the Wuling Air EV, which has dimensions of 2,974 mm x 1,505 mm x 1,631 mm. Both models feature a four-seater configuration, ideal for city driving and short commutes.
2. Driving Range and Battery Capacity
While the VinFast VF 3 offers an affordable price tag, it falls short in terms of driving range compared to its competitor. Here’s how the two models compare:
- VinFast VF 3: 18.64 kWh battery with a driving range of 215 km.
- Wuling Air EV:
- Standard Range: 200 km (IDR 179.1 million – IDR 224 million).
- Long Range: 300 km (IDR 275 million – IDR 300 million).
Although the VF 3 has a slightly longer range than the Wuling Air EV’s standard variant, it does not match the flexibility of the long-range option.
The Impact on Indonesia’s EV Market
With an attractive price and practical urban design, the VinFast VF 3 has the potential to accelerate EV adoption in Indonesia. It presents an affordable entry point for consumers looking to transition from gasoline-powered cars to electric alternatives. However, Wuling Air EV still holds a strong position with a more established market presence, a wider service network, and a long-range variant for those needing extended mileage.
Conclusion: A Game-Changing Launch?
The upcoming launch of the VinFast VF 3 at IIMS 2025 will be a crucial moment in Indonesia’s EV sector. Will it disrupt the dominance of Wuling Air EV, or will it serve as an alternative for budget-conscious buyers? Only time will tell. What is certain, however, is that the increasing competition in the EV market will benefit consumers by offering more choices at competitive prices.
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