Electric SUVs under VND 1 billion are gaining popularity in Vietnam as the EV market grows rapidly. With government incentives like registration fee exemptions until February 2027 and plans for 500 new charging stations by early 2025, EVs are becoming more accessible. Here’s a quick look at 5 electric SUVs that balance price, range, and practicality:
Top 5 Electric SUVs Under VND 1 Billion
- BYD Atto 3:
- Range: 405 km
- Price: From VND 659 million
- Fast charging: 35 minutes (10–70%)
- VinFast VF e34:
- Range: 318 km
- Price: From VND 690 million
- Battery subscription: VND 1.5 million/month
- Hyundai Kona Electric:
- Range: 322–420 km (depending on trim)
- Price: From VND 850 million
- Chevrolet Equinox EV LT:
- Range: 415 km
- Price: From VND 950 million
- Interior: Spacious with 57 cubic feet of cargo space
- Wuling Cloud EV:
- Range: 280 km
- Price: From VND 239 million
- Compact design: Ideal for city driving
Quick Comparison Table
| Model | Range (km) | Price (VND) | Charging Time (10–70%) | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BYD Atto 3 | 405 | 659 million | 35 minutes | Long range, fast charging |
| VinFast VF e34 | 318 | 690 million | 40 minutes | Battery subscription option |
| Hyundai Kona Electric | 322–420 | 850 million | 31 minutes | Family-friendly, versatile |
| Chevrolet Equinox EV | 415 | 950 million | 31 minutes | Spacious interior |
| Wuling Cloud EV | 280 | 239 million | 45 minutes | Budget-friendly, compact size |
Best Picks by Usage:
- City driving: Wuling Cloud EV or VinFast VF e34
- Long highway trips: BYD Atto 3
- Family use: Hyundai Kona Electric
With growing infrastructure and incentives, these affordable SUVs offer practical options for Vietnam’s urban and family drivers.
5 Key Factors in EV SUV Selection
Range and Charging
When it comes to selecting an electric SUV in Vietnam, range and charging capabilities are often at the top of buyers’ priorities. For vehicles priced under VND 1 billion, options cater to a variety of driving needs. For instance, the BYD Atto 3 offers two versions: the Dynamic variant provides a range of 410 km per charge, while the Premium version stretches that to 480 km. Meanwhile, the Geely EX5 stands out with its DC fast-charging feature, allowing the battery to go from 30% to 80% in just 20 minutes – a convenient option for city drivers.
Next, let’s break down the costs that influence the overall value of these vehicles.
Cost Analysis
Switching to an EV can lead to notable savings over time. In fact, 44% of electric vehicles have been shown to offer lower five-year ownership costs compared to gasoline-powered cars.
Here’s a closer look at the key cost factors:
| Cost Component | Impact on Ownership |
|---|---|
| Purchase Price | Ranges between VND 240–830 million for popular models |
| Electricity vs. Fuel | Saves an average of VND 175 million over five years |
| Maintenance | 43 out of 54 EVs showed reduced maintenance costs |
| Depreciation | Only 9% of EVs retain better value compared to ICE cars |
As David Wurster, President of Vincentric, explains:
"High purchase prices often deter consumers, yet analysis shows 44% of EVs offer lower five-year costs than a comparable gas vehicle."
Service and Support
Beyond the upfront costs, the quality of after-sales service and support plays a major role in the long-term value of an EV. VinFast, for example, has established itself as a leader in this area. As of November 2024, the company operates 111 service workshops across Vietnam and plans to expand to 200 by the end of December 2024. This robust service network has contributed to their success, with over 51,000 EVs delivered between January and October 2024.
Another standout feature is VinFast’s 10-year warranty, which covers both the vehicle and its battery. This extended coverage has been a deciding factor for many buyers.
"The 10-year warranty made choosing the car an easy decision, and it provides additional peace of mind."
– Dien Do, VinFast VF 8 owner
Auto market expert Phan Thanh Man highlights the importance of after-sales service, saying:
"Unlike traditional automakers that prioritize sales figures, VinFast has adopted a customer-centric approach by investing heavily in after-sales services. This strategic move not only boosts sales but also fosters long-lasting relationships with customers."
VinFast‘s VF6: A Vietnamese Contender in the European EV Market
5 Electric SUV Models Compared
Here’s a closer look at five electric SUVs priced under VND 1 billion, each bringing something different to the table for urban drivers.
BYD Atto 3 Standard Range Review
The BYD Atto 3 stands out with its gym-themed interior design, a rotating infotainment screen (available in 12.8-inch or 15.6-inch sizes), and a generous boot capacity ranging from 440 to 1,338 liters.
"There’s no questioning BYD’s commitment to delivering value. The Atto 3’s spec list reads like a car twice the price and customers are clearly going to get plenty of bang for their buck".
It also comes with an 8-year/160,000 km battery warranty and 6-year roadside assistance, giving buyers added peace of mind.
VinFast VF e34 Review
The VinFast VF e34 is equipped with a 41.9 kWh battery, providing a driving range of 318 km. What sets it apart is its battery subscription model, starting at VND 1.5 million per month for up to 3,000 km.
"By separating the price of the battery from the acquisition value of the automobile, VinFast takes on all the risks related to the vehicle’s battery and ensures a reasonable price for its products, while providing customers with peace of mind about the battery’s quality during use".
Next, let’s explore an option that balances urban usability with longer driving capabilities.
Hyundai Kona Electric Review
The Hyundai Kona Electric offers flexibility with two battery configurations to cater to different driving needs:
| Trim Level | Battery Capacity | EPA Range |
|---|---|---|
| SE | 48.6 kWh | 200 miles |
| SEL/Limited | 64.8 kWh | 261 miles |
| N Line | 64.8 kWh | 230 miles |
In real-world tests, the larger battery achieved a range of 230 miles, making it suitable for both city commutes and extended trips. The Kona Electric also includes Hyundai’s standard 36-month/60,000 km warranty.
Chevrolet Equinox EV LT Review
The Chevrolet Equinox EV LT features a sleek 17.7-inch touchscreen interface, and its interior scored 8.5/10 from Edmunds, praised for its spaciousness and easy entry and exit.
"The Equinox EV is a good option for anyone after A-to-B electric transportation".
It offers 57 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, though it lacks Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, which may be a drawback for some users.
Wuling Cloud EV Review
The Wuling Cloud EV prioritizes comfort and functionality with features like its 135° reclining backseat, dubbed "Sofa Mode", and a 15.6-inch Intelligent Control Panel. Its cargo space is impressive, offering 606 liters with the rear seats up and expanding to 1,707 liters when folded.
Other highlights include atmospheric multicolor ambient lighting and a compact design that makes it ideal for navigating city streets.
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Technical Specifications Chart
Here’s a side-by-side look at the technical details of five electric SUVs priced under VND 1 billion.
Model Comparison Data
| Specification | BYD Atto 3 | VinFast VF e34 | Hyundai Kona Electric | Chevrolet Equinox EV LT | Wuling Cloud EV |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Battery Capacity | 48.6 kWh | 41.9 kWh | 48.6 kWh (SE) / 64.8 kWh (SEL) | 87.7 kWh | 26.8 kWh |
| Range (WLTP) | 405 km | 318 km | 322 km / 420 km | 415 km | 280 km |
| Charging (10–70%) | 35 min | 40 min | 31 min | 31 min | 45 min |
| Max Power | 150 kW | 110 kW | 150 kW | 260 kW | 26.8 kW |
| Max Torque | 310 Nm | 242 Nm | 395 Nm | 500 Nm | 85 Nm |
| Cargo Space | 440–1,338 L | 380–1,150 L | 332–1,114 L | 1,614 L | 606–1,707 L |
| Starting Price (VND) | 659,000,000 | 690,000,000 | 850,000,000 | 950,000,000 | 239,000,000 |
The Wuling Cloud EV stands out for its budget-friendly starting price of VND 239 million and generous cargo space, making it a practical choice for those on a tighter budget.
Meanwhile, the BYD Atto 3 offers an impressive range of 405 km and quick charging capabilities, making it ideal for urban drivers who value efficiency and convenience.
Buying Guide by Usage Type
Let’s break down which electric SUV suits different driving needs in Vietnam, considering real-world scenarios. These suggestions are based on earlier insights into range, cost, and support.
City Commuting
For daily urban driving, the Wuling EV stands out. With a starting price of VND 239,000,000, its compact size makes it perfect for navigating crowded streets. Another excellent option is the VinFast VF e34, which offers a range of about 205–210 km and can charge from 10% to 70% in just 36 minutes, thanks to its extensive charging network.
Highway Travel
If long highway drives are part of your routine, the BYD Atto 3 is a solid pick. It combines a long driving range with fast-charging capabilities, so you can stay on the road longer with minimal downtime. For those seeking powerful acceleration and smooth highway performance, the Chevrolet Equinox EV LT is another great choice.
Family Use
For families, the Hyundai Kona Electric is a reliable all-rounder. It offers a comfortable and practical ride, making it suitable for daily errands and weekend trips alike.
| Usage Type | Best Choice | Key Benefits | Starting Price (VND) |
|---|---|---|---|
| City Commuting | Wuling EV | Compact design, excellent value | 239,000,000 |
| Highway Travel | BYD Atto 3 | Long range, fast charging | 659,000,000 |
| Family Use | Hyundai Kona Electric | Balanced comfort and practicality | 850,000,000 |
"Local insights drive success in the evolving EV market. As the EV landscape in Vietnam continues to evolve and become more competitive, both foreign and local car brands must embrace a deep understanding of local preferences, values, and pain points and use that understanding as a roadmap to thriving in this promising market and driving the future of sustainable mobility in the country."
– Tran Kim Hoang Yen, PR Account Manager
Long-term Value Consideration
When it comes to long-term value, features like extended warranties and a growing charging network play a vital role. According to the Vietnam Automobile Manufacturers Association (VAMA), the country is expected to reach 1 million EVs by 2028, which signals significant growth in infrastructure to support this transition.
FAQs
What are the key benefits of choosing an electric SUV priced under VND 1 billion for city driving in Vietnam?
Choosing an electric SUV priced under VND 1 billion for city driving in Vietnam comes with plenty of perks:
- Lower Running Costs: Electric SUVs are far more affordable to operate compared to gasoline-powered cars. A full charge typically costs between VND 20,000 and VND 50,000, giving you a range of 200–300 km.
- Environmentally Friendly: These vehicles produce zero exhaust emissions, contributing to cleaner air and less pollution in urban areas.
- Convenience: Charging at home means you can skip regular trips to the gas station. Plus, with more charging stations popping up across cities, recharging is becoming more hassle-free.
- Government Support: Buyers benefit from incentives like a 0% registration fee for the first three years, making these vehicles even more budget-friendly.
- City-Ready Design: Many electric SUVs are compact and easy to park, making them ideal for maneuvering through Vietnam’s bustling city streets.
How do government incentives and charging infrastructure improvements affect the affordability of owning an electric SUV in Vietnam?
Government initiatives and improvements in charging infrastructure are making electric SUVs more accessible and practical for consumers in Vietnam. One major incentive is the 100% registration fee exemption for battery electric vehicles (BEVs) until 2027. This policy can save buyers up to 12% of the vehicle’s price, giving EVs a competitive edge over traditional fuel-powered cars and encouraging more people to make the switch.
At the same time, Vietnam is working on expanding its EV charging network to address concerns about convenience. The country plans to build between 100,000 and 350,000 charging stations to support the growing number of EVs on the road. Together, these efforts lower initial costs and enhance everyday usability, making electric SUVs a more appealing option for Vietnamese consumers.
What should you consider when choosing an electric SUV for family use, and which model offers the best value under 1 billion VND?
When picking an electric SUV for family use, it’s important to think about interior space, driving range, safety features, and charging convenience. A spacious interior means more comfort for passengers and room for all your cargo. A longer driving range helps reduce the hassle of frequent charging stops, especially on long trips. Safety should always be a top priority for families, so look for models with advanced driver-assistance systems and strong safety ratings. And for busy households, having fast-charging options can make life a lot easier.
If you’re looking for electric SUVs priced under 1 billion VND, the VinFast VF e34 is a standout choice. It offers a roomy cabin, a reliable driving range, and robust safety features, making it a smart and budget-friendly pick for families. Other strong contenders include the Hyundai Kona Electric and MG ZS EV, both of which deliver a solid balance of comfort, performance, and value.
