July 15, 2025, 10:40:16 AM IST (Updated) 3 Min Read VinFast Auto India, the local arm of Vietnam's electric vehicle maker VinFast, has opened bookings in India for its premium electric SUVs — the VF 6 and VF 7 — ahead of their launch next month, just as Tesla gears up to open its first showroom in Mumbai on July 15. Customers can now reserve either model online or at any of VinFast’s showrooms by paying a refundable booking amount of ₹21,000. Deliveries will begin after the formal inauguration of the company’s upcoming factory in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, which is expected in August. The timing puts VinFast in direct view of India’s growing interest in electric mobility, as global EV players make moves to capture a slice of the market. Tesla is all set to open its Mumbai showroom at Maker Maxity Mall on July 15. It plans to showcase three models — the Model 3, Model Y, and Model X — with deliveries likely starting later this year. The Tesla Model Y rear-wheel drive is priced at ₹61.07 lakh (on-road including GST, road tax, FasTag and other fees), while the Long Range variant will cost ₹69.15 lakh. VinFast, by contrast, is positioning itself more affordably and with local manufacturing in mind. Its Thoothukudi plant represents a $500 million investment and is expected to eventually produce 150,000 vehicles annually. Both the VF 6 and VF 7 will be assembled at this facility, aligning with the company’s plans to make India a key production hub. The VF 6 is a compact, family-oriented electric SUV featuring Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), a panoramic glass roof, and connected infotainment features. The larger VF 7 targets customers looking for more premium styling and tech features, including wireless charging, signature LED lighting, and a large touchscreen interface. “We are deeply encouraged by the overwhelming support from Indian consumers at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo. It reaffirmed the country’s readiness and enthusiasm for sustainable mobility solutions," said Pham Sanh Chau, CEO of VinFast Asia. VinFast has already partnered with 13 dealer groups to set up 32 dealerships across 27 cities. It has also tied up with companies such as RoadGrid and myTVS to develop charging and after-sales support, and with BatX Energies to create a battery recycling ecosystem. While Tesla is entering the market through imports, hoping for future duty reductions, VinFast is banking on localisation and a wider dealership reach to appeal to Indian EV buyers. Tesla’s initial focus will be on the premium segment, but analysts say its long-term scale in India will depend on bringing in a more affordable model with local manufacturing. Also Read: Tesla needs a sub- ₹25 lakh car to win over India For now, both companies are entering a market that remains small but rapidly growing — particularly in urban centres. As India’s EV story evolves, customers are likely to benefit from the competition between global players offering options across different price points and technology platforms. Continue Reading