NANAIMO – The Port of Nanaimo was the first stop for the new electric automobile producer VinFast, a newly Canadian sale certified manufacturer with its production based in Hai Phong, Vietnam.
VinFast is a member of Vingroup, established in 1993 with a focus on technology and industry, services, and social enterprise.
“Today VinFast has taken another big step in its mission to foster the global electrification revolution,” says Nguyen Thi Van Anh, CEO of VinFast North America. I believe with VinFast’s non-stop efforts together with its serious and methodical business strategy, VinFast will soon gain the trust and support from Canadian customers.”
The NPA partnered with the British Columbia Vehicle Processing Center, and Western Stevedoring to provide a warm welcome for team members from VinFast that arrived from Vietnam, Toronto, and Vancouver to celebrate the historic first shipment of autos.
Jason Michell, Vice President Business Development for the Port of Nanaimo, states: “One of the many highlights of this new VinFast electric auto market entry was meeting the wonderful people from VinFast Canada, Vietnam, and the ship’s captain and crew. I found there to be a sense of pride and excitement that showed just how much hard work went into making the market entry possible for the VinFast team.
“Also, sharing in VinFast’s special day with Western Stevedoring and the BCVPC team was memorable. We appreciate the partners continued support as we try to highlight alternative transportation solutions for the West Coast of Canada. Congratulations VinFast and welcome to the market!”
Ian Marr, President and CEO of the Port of Nanaimo stated “the NPA and its private and government partners have made considerable financial contributions to develop its shipping infrastructure to support increased trade capacity and resiliency for the gateway. We have also spent a considerable amount of time with government and private industry partners to increase awareness for Nanaimo’s shipping terminals capabilities, land capacity, and short sea shipping capabilities into Vancouver. Today is a day to celebrate the hard work and vision of those collective efforts and partnerships.”
A total of 781 VF8 models arrived in Nanaimo on May 16 as part of the initial shipment of 1,879 vehicles exported to North America. The first deliveries to customers are expected to take place in June. Their aim is to drive the movement of global smart electric vehicle revolution.
VinFast began in 2017 and owns a state-of-the-art automotive manufacturing complex with scalability that boasts up to 90% automation in Hai Phong, Vietnam. VinFast has established a United States headquarters in Los Angeles, CA, opened several showrooms and service centers in California and one in Ontario, is developing a site in North Carolina for domestic manufacturing of electric vehicles.
VinFast creates high-quality products, advanced smart services, seamless customer experiences, and pricing strategies to inspire global customers to jointly create a future of smart mobility and a sustainable planet.
The VF 8’s battery range has been officially certified by the Environmental Protection Agency at 425 kilometres (264 miles) for the Eco trim, 391 kms (243 miles) for the Plus 300 kW (kilowatt) trim, and 354 kms (220 miles) for the Plus 260 kW trim.
In Canada, The VF 8 Eco is listed from $53,600, while the Plus 260 kW has a starting price of $59,200.
The VF 8 will also be covered by a 10-year/200,000 km limited warranty as well as a 10 year, unlimited km warranty for the high voltage battery. In addition, Mobile Service and 24/7 Roadside Assistance are included during the 10-year warranty period.
The VF 8 is equipped with a wide range of advanced technologies including the Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) and VF Online Packages. These features will be enhanced through over-the-air updates to improve vehicle functionality and customer experience.
By Mark MacDonald
