At CES 2024 in Las Vegas, Vietnamese electric carmaker VinFast revealed two new models. The VF Wild, a mid-size zero-emission pickup truck, wants to challenge the F-150 Lightning and Rivian RR1T, while the small VF3 takes on a more global role as an affordable two-door ‘mini-eSUV’.

Indeed, the VF Wild is the more noticeable of the two, and it is no surprise that Vinfast chose the US for the unveiling since pickups stand as the best-sellers in the country.

Leveraging global presence

Specific details about battery size, charging, and range weren’t unveiled, so it seems that the rugged-looking VF Wild concept wants to measure the temperature. Vinfast did acknowledge that it could reach production to leverage the brand’s global presence.

As for the design, the cargo bed is a so-called midgate, meaning the closure behind the rear bench can be pulled down for more space. This neat trick was also witnessed on the Fisker Alaska, a rival to the VF Wild, when it finally hit the assembly halls.

VinFast could use a boost in the US, as its first models were negatively received due to lousy suspension, poor quality, and defunct driving aids. The SUV VF8 received the dubious ‘Worst Reviewed Car of the Year’ title.

200 kilometres range

Next to the giant, VinFast also brought a dwarf to the CES floor called VF3. This all-electric mini-SUV, styled with the looks of the boxy Suzuki Jimny in the back of the designers’ minds, was initially intended for the Vietnamese market but has now been confirmed to be sold as a global EV model.

With a targeted range of a modest 200 kilometers per full charge (according to the American standard EPA), the VF3 is designed to cater to city dwellers and young drivers. A few months ago, it went on sale in its home country, Vietnam; it measures 3,1 meters, and seats four passengers.

VinFast has not provided a specific timeline for export but has announced plans to start taking reservations for the VF3 later this year. Europe should be included.