2023 VinFast VF 8 Is an Ambitious Electric SUV From Vietnam

This is the 2022 VinFast VF 8, an all-electric compact crossover SUV.

The model is poised to come to America from Vietnam later this year, and we've already driven it in preproduction form.

VinFast is part of VinGroup, one of the biggest conglomerates in Asia.

VinFast has only been in existence since 2017, but it's already got a number of models available in its home market, along with electric scooters and buses. 

This model is styled was styled with input from Pininfarina, the legendary Italian design house.

Mechanically, this EV has been developed from the ground up by VinFast.

The VF 8 will take on models like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Tesla Model Y.

VinFast built a highly automated, state-of-the-art plant in Haiphong, about two hours east of Hanoi. Impressively, the factory was up and running in 21 months.

Our initial test drive took place on a very limited course on the factory's grounds.

Blue interiors are great, aren't they?

Interestingly, this model will not include the cost of the battery pack -- the juice comes via a subscription model.

VinFast will own and maintain the battery. You'll own the vehicle, and they'll lease the battery to you with the cost of charging included.

This is the smaller VF 8 shown with the larger three-row VF 9 in the foreground -- the latter is also coming to the US in 2022.

Yep, the VF 8 has a frunk. It's pretty small, but should be useful for charge cords and odds and ends.

The rear cargo area is markedly bigger, as you'd expect.

VinFast is making a big deal out of its plans for connected services and in-car entertainment, including games and a pet mode, just like You Know Who.

A large, 15-inch touchscreen is the heart of the infotainment system.

The VF 8 will be available in two versions, Eco and Plus, each offered with two different battery sizes and corresponding ranges up to 292 miles.

As of this writing, pricing ranges from $40,700 plus a yet-to-be-determined destination cost. That's batteries not included, of course.

The unknown brand plans to earn consumer confidence with an excellent 10-year, 120,000-mile warranty.

Early reservation holders  -- "pioneers" in VinFast-speak -- also get an NFT and maybe even a hotel stay at one of parent Vingroup's luxury resorts. 

Keep clicking or scrolling for dozens of additional images of the 2023 VinFast VF 8 SUV.