Vietnamese automaker VinFast has patented its flagship VF 9 electric SUV in Australia, hinting at future expansion into other right-hand-drive (RHD) markets — including India. The VF 9, already on sale in Vietnam and the United States, is expected to receive a 2026 model year (MY26) update, and could soon join VinFast’s growing global portfolio.
Design and Dimensions
The VinFast VF 9 is a full-size, seven-seat electric SUV that’s even larger than the Kia EV9, its closest rival.
Key dimensions include:
- Length: 5.1 metres
- Width: 2.2 metres
- Height: 1.7 metres
- Wheelbase: 3.14 metres
For comparison, the Kia EV9 measures 5.0 metres in length and 2.0 metres in width, giving the VF 9 a more imposing stance.
Styling highlights include a sporty front fascia, flush-fitting door handles, body-coloured wheel arch claddings, black roof rails, and dual-tone alloy wheels. The design reflects VinFast’s modern, aerodynamic approach to large electric SUVs.
Interior and Features
Inside, the VF 9 feels as premium as it looks. The cabin is finished with vegan leather upholstery and packs a long list of comfort features, including:
- 12-way powered driver seat
- 10-way powered passenger seat
- 8-way powered second-row seats
- Ventilated, heated, and massaging front and second-row seats
- Three-zone automatic climate control
- 15.6-inch infotainment touchscreen with HUD
- 13-speaker premium sound system
- Wireless phone charging, 90W USB-C ports, and a 75L frunk
These features put it on par with high-end luxury EVs, while the cabin layout focuses on both comfort and technology.
The Kia EV9, meanwhile, offers a slightly different feature set, including 18-way driver seat adjustment, reclining third-row seats, and 14-speaker Meridian audio, though it lacks the massage functionality found in the VF 9.
Battery, Power, and Performance
Under the skin, the VinFast VF 9 packs serious electric performance. It’s powered by a 123kWh battery pack paired with dual motors that deliver 300kW (402bhp) and 620Nm of torque. The eSUV accelerates from 0–100kmph in 6.6 seconds and offers an estimated driving range of over 600km (claimed).
In comparison, the Kia EV9 uses a 99.8kWh battery and produces 283kW/700Nm, offering a 561km claimed range and a quicker 5.3-second 0–100kmph sprint.
So, while the Kia EV9 has slightly quicker acceleration, the VF 9 wins on battery capacity and range.
Pricing and Positioning
Pricing could be VinFast’s biggest advantage. In Vietnam, the VF 9 starts at around ₹50.5 lakh, which significantly undercuts the Kia EV9, priced at ₹1.3 crore in India.
Even with import duties or local assembly costs factored in, the VF 9’s Indian pricing is unlikely to cross the ₹1 crore mark, making it a potentially game-changing premium electric SUV for the segment.
India Launch Possibility
The Australian patent filing is a key development since Australia, like India, is a right-hand-drive market. This strongly suggests that VinFast is preparing RHD production for multiple countries.
Given that the brand already has CKD assembly plans at its Thoothukudi plant in Tamil Nadu, and that models like the Limo Green have been spotted testing in India, the VF 9’s arrival appears highly probable.
VinFast’s rapid expansion, along with its recent patent filings for multiple models — including the Minio Green and Limo Green — reinforces its aggressive India entry strategy across different EV segments.
Verdict
With its luxury seven-seat layout, massive battery, and competitive pricing, the VinFast VF 9 has all the makings of a strong contender in India’s emerging electric SUV market. While an official confirmation is yet to come, all signs point toward the VF 9 being part of VinFast’s India lineup — possibly assembled locally for a more accessible price point.