Just a few years ago, VinFast was a name more often seen in announcements than on Philippine roads. Mentioned largely in the context of overseas auto shows and regional expansion plans, the Vietnamese electric vehicle (EV) brand remained distant from everyday experience. By the end of 2025, that perception had changed dramatically.
Across Metro Manila, VinFast vehicles have become a familiar sight. Commuters can now hail an all-electric taxi operated by Green GSM, drive a VinFast EV to work, or charge their cars at VinFast-exclusive stations run by infrastructure partner V-Green during routine errands.
“I didn’t know the model at first,” said Mark, a delivery rider working across Makati and Mandaluyong. “I just kept seeing the same logo on different cars. Different drivers, same badge. They’re everywhere now.”
From novelty to normal
For years, electric vehicles in the Philippines were largely confined to exhibitions, pilot projects and policy discussions. Gasoline-powered vehicles continued to dominate public roads, supported by habit and an established refuelling network.
VinFast officially launched in the Philippines in May 2024 with a growing EV lineup. Initial exposure came through conventional channels such as mall showrooms and auto events. Wider recognition followed as the vehicles began appearing consistently in everyday environments—residential streets, office basements, and major access roads.
“I see them when I start my shift and when I end it,” said Joel, a parking attendant at an office building in Makati. “They’re parked in basements, waiting at drop-off points, sometimes charging.”
Repeated exposure gradually normalised the brand. Drivers and pedestrians no longer needed to know specifications; the badge and design alone became recognisable.
Daily use drives adoption
By late 2025, discussions around EVs shifted from theory to practicality. Owners compared charging routines, running costs and daily usage rather than debating feasibility.
At a VinFast owners’ meetup in San Juan last November, photographer Paul Reyes shared his experience after logging more than 10,000 kilometres in his VF 3.
“I used to compute my gasoline expenses every week,” Reyes said. “After switching to EV, I’ve saved around ₱90,000 in a year.”
Reyes added that he does not plan to return to internal combustion vehicles, citing both savings and convenience.
Beyond cost efficiency, some owners highlighted the VF 3’s customisation potential. Car modifier and content creator Carl Macaisa described the compact EV as “a blank canvas” that allows personal expression, a factor that has helped it build a loyal following.
Macaisa later upgraded to the larger VF 6, noting that it suited both spirited driving and everyday use. “Slow or fast, it delivers,” he said.
Building an ecosystem, not just selling cars
VinFast’s strategy in the Philippines has focused on pairing vehicles with supporting systems. The country is one of the few markets to receive VinFast’s full lineup, from the VF 3 to the VF 9, backed by warranties of up to 10 years and three years of free charging through V-Green.
A key pillar is Green GSM, the country’s first all-electric ride-hailing fleet. For many commuters, it provides a first-hand EV experience without the commitment of ownership.
“It’s clean, comfortable, and feels better than what I’ve experienced with other platforms,” said early Green GSM user Gabriel Joshua R. Ancheta.
Charging access has expanded alongside vehicle visibility. V-Green chargers are located in malls, office complexes and expressway stops, allowing drivers to charge during routine breaks.
“I charge while I stop for lunch,” said one Green GSM driver. “When I’m done, the car is ready again.”
To address servicing concerns, VinFast partnered with established automotive networks including Motech, JIGA and Goodyear, with more than 100 authorised service points planned nationwide by the end of 2025. The company has also introduced a Residual Value Guarantee, offering up to 90 per cent of the vehicle’s purchase value if returned within six months.
Industry attention grows
VinFast’s integrated approach has begun attracting attention from industry observers. Jonel Borromeo, a Philippine dealer who visited VinFast’s Hai Phong factory, said the brand’s ecosystem-driven strategy could accelerate its rise.
“If VinFast is aiming to become a market leader, creating its own ecosystem is a strong approach—similar to what Steve Jobs did with Apple,” Borromeo said.
As electric mobility adoption in Southeast Asia remains uneven, VinFast’s rapid establishment of vehicles, infrastructure and services has positioned the brand as a visible force in Metro Manila—transforming EVs from a future concept into an everyday reality.
