VinFast VF 8 Design Patent Filed in India: New Electric SUV Launch on the Cards?

Highlights:

• VinFast has officially registered the design patent for the second generation VF 8 electric SUV in India.

• The updated global spec VF 8 features a 60.13 kWh battery pack and a 500 km claimed driving range.

• If launched, it will compete directly against high end variants of the Tata Harrier EV and Mahindra XEV 9e.

Vietnamese electric vehicle (EV) giant VinFast is accelerating its strategy for the Indian automotive market. Just weeks after pulling the wraps off the second generation VF 8 electric SUV globally, the automaker has officially filed a design patent for the vehicle in India.

While filing a patent doesn't guarantee an immediate commercial rollout, it strongly signals that VinFast is securing its intellectual property as it evaluates expanding its premium portfolio in India. The move comes amidst VinFast’s steady expansion in the country, backed by its aggressive infrastructure push and its manufacturing operations based out of Tamil Nadu.

VinFast VF 8 Patented Design: What’s New?

The patent images filed in India closely match the recently refreshed second generation VF 8 unveiled in its home market. Embodying VinFast’s signature "Tech Fluid" styling, the mid size electric SUV transitions toward a sharper, more mature aesthetic.

Key Exterior Changes Include:

• The Front Fascia: Features the brand's unmistakable V-shaped connected light bar, segmented daytime running lights (DRLs), and a sleek, closed off black grille setup.

• Side Profile Modifications: The patent reveals sharp body character lines alongside contrasting black wheel arches. Interestingly, the patent showcases an exclusive alloy wheel design that differs slightly from the global reveal.

• Roof & Rear Tweaks: Notably, the patent application indicates the absence of a panoramic glass roof. Around the back, the continuous V-shaped LED taillights remain, but the bumper and reflector placements have been subtly reworked for the Indian filing.

Premium Cabin Layout and Next-Gen Tech

Inside, the new-generation VinFast VF 8 moves to a minimalist, tech heavy cabin. Stepping away from the previous model's configuration, the updated interior centers around a floating 12.9-inch touchscreen infotainment display and an independent driver's digital cluster mounted behind a redesigned steering wheel.

The electric SUV is packed with premium creature comforts, including a column mounted gear selector, dual zone climate control with air ionization, an 8 speaker audio system, and a 6 way power adjustable driver’s seat equipped with memory functions.

Safety is also at the forefront, with the global model offering a comprehensive Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) suite that features Highway Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Warning, and a 360-degree parking camera.

Power, Battery, and Range Expectations

Under the hood, the global second generation VF 8 has pivoted to a highly efficient setup. It utilizes a 60.13 kWh battery pack mated to a front axle mounted single electric motor.

VinFast VF 8 Performance Tracker

Market Positioning and Expected Competitors

If greenlit for production in India, the VF 8 will comfortably slot right above the existing VF 7 model as the brand’s flagship EV offering on Indian shores. Measuring roughly 4.7 meters in length, this electric SUV will dive straight into a highly competitive territory.

It will lock horns with premium local giants, specifically targeting the top tier variants of the highly anticipated Mahindra XEV 9e and the Tata Harrier EV. While official pricing remains under wraps, the vehicle's Vietnam market positioning hints that it could target a premium pricing segment if brought via assembly routes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Has VinFast officially launched the VF 8 in India?

A: No, the VinFast VF 8 has not been officially launched in India yet. The manufacturer has filed a design patent for the second-generation global model, which indicates the brand is protecting its design rights and considering the electric SUV for a future Indian market rollout.

Q: What is the driving range of the new-generation VinFast VF 8?

A: The newly unveiled second-generation global version of the VF 8 features an updated powertrain that delivers a claimed driving range of up to 500 km on a single charge under the NEDC cycle testing standard.

Q: What are the battery capacity and performance specifications of the VF 8?

A: The globally revealed second-generation VF 8 features a 60.13 kWh battery pack paired with a front-axle-mounted single electric motor. This Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) setup generates 228 bhp (170 kW) of power and 330 Nm of peak torque.

Q: How long does it take to charge the VinFast VF 8?

A: Using a DC fast charger, the new-generation VinFast VF 8 can replenish its 60.13 kWh battery pack from 10% to 70% in under 30 minutes.

Q: What are the key features expected in the premium electric SUV?

A: Based on the patented model and global specifications, the premium cabin includes a 12.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a minimalist digital instrument cluster, dual-zone climate control, a 6-way power-adjustable driver's seat with memory, and an 8-speaker sound system. It also features an Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) suite paired with a 360-degree camera setup.

Q: Which cars will the VinFast VF 8 compete with in India?

A: Measuring approximately 4.7 meters in length, the mid-size premium VF 8 will sit above the VF 7 in the brand's local lineup. It will position itself as a premium offering, competing directly against high-end variants of the Tata Harrier EV and the Mahindra XEV 9e.