VinFast is pushing ahead with its U.S. ambitions despite a steep decline in sales and a shrinking dealership footprint. The Vietnamese automaker has announced a multi-pathway plan centered on a refreshed VF8, new dealerships and a certified pre-owned program as it seeks to begin what its North American leadership describes as a new chapter of growth.
VinFast Plans New Push Across the U.S.
Automotive News reported that VinFast North America CEO Brian Finnerty outlined the company’s strategy to reignite sales across the U.S. The plan includes the refreshed VF8, a certified pre-owned program and efforts to open new dealerships as VinFast works to reverse its shrinking dealer network.
Finnerty said the strategy goes beyond expanding the dealership network, describing it as a long-term commitment by VinFast to the U.S. market. He also said the company is beginning its next chapter of growth in the country.
The plans come as VinFast deals with dealership closures in certain states. Alongside its efforts to reopen dealerships, the automaker has introduced the 2027 VF8 with new technology, including rear automatic emergency braking and lane change assist.
2027 VinFast VF8 Gets 0% Financing Offer
VinFast is also using financing incentives to support sales of the new VF8. The company is offering 0% financing for up to 84 months on the vehicle.
The moves form part of VinFast’s broader effort to rebuild its presence in the U.S. market as it works to address declining sales and changes to its dealership network.
VinFast Faces Sharp U.S. Sales Decline
VinFast remains outside the top tier of EV brands in terms of consumer awareness in the U.S., while the broader EV market has experienced fluctuating conditions, including declining or stagnant sales.
Tesla, described in the report as the industry leader, has also experienced a sales decline but is currently the only EV brand described as resilient enough to ride out the current market conditions.
VinFast’s own U.S. sales have fallen sharply over the past year. According to the report, new vehicle registrations dropped 63%, totaling just 389 from January to July this year.
North Carolina Manufacturing Plant Faces Legal Issues
VinFast is also facing legal issues in North Carolina. The state alleges that the automaker missed crucial construction deadlines for its proposed manufacturing plant.
Despite the sales decline, dealership closures and legal challenges, VinFast is continuing with its U.S. strategy through the refreshed VF8, dealership expansion, a certified pre-owned program and financing incentives.
