San Diego, California, August 21, 2025
News Summary
VinFast San Diego, the first authorized dealership for the Vietnamese electric vehicle maker in California, opened on August 19, 2025. This marks a strategic shift to a franchise model for VinFast, providing customers with the chance to test drive their flagship electric SUVs, the VF 8 and VF 9. The dealership aims to enhance services while expanding their dealer network across 14 states, focusing on key markets like California, Texas, and New York as part of their growth strategy.
California is now home to VinFast’s first authorized dealership, VinFast San Diego, which officially opened its doors on August 19, 2025. This marks a significant milestone for the Vietnamese electric vehicle manufacturer as it shifts from a direct sales model to a franchise dealership sales approach across the United States.
The grand opening of VinFast San Diego attracted company executives, local media, and a crowd of potential customers. Attendees had the opportunity to test drive the company’s two flagship electric SUVs: the mid-size VF 8 and the full-size VF 9. Overall, the dealership is part of the Sunroad Automotive Group and has been operational since earlier in the summer of 2025.
The opening of VinFast San Diego is part of a larger strategic plan, where the company intends to replace its 15 existing company-owned retail stores in California with franchise dealerships. California is deemed a top priority market due to its significant electric vehicle growth potential, making it a key part of VinFast’s expansion strategy.
VinFast has established nearly 30 authorized dealerships across 14 states, focusing on major markets such as California, Texas, Florida, New York, and Illinois. The new San Diego location aims to provide comprehensive services, including sales, warranty support, maintenance, repairs, and genuine VinFast parts.
The VF 8, one of the models available, is priced starting at $39,900, with leasing options beginning at $279 per month. The VF 9, offering a full-sized alternative, starts at $62,900 and has leasing options from $449 monthly. Both electric vehicle models come with substantial warranties—10 years or 125,000 miles for the vehicle and a 10-year unlimited mileage warranty for the battery, specifically for non-commercial uses.
The transition to a franchise model began when VinFast signed its first five franchisees in late 2023. This strategic shift is designed to enhance business efficiency and leverage local market expertise derived from the reputation of dealers. URI Feldman, the president of Sunroad Holding Company, expressed pride in their partnership as VinFast’s first dealership in California. During the grand opening, Mike Nolte, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for VinFast U.S., noted the positive consumer response to the brand’s entry into the local market.
Despite challenges in achieving profitability, VinFast remains optimistic about its revenue growth potential. The company is currently valued at $8.35 billion and reported preliminary domestic deliveries of 11,479 electric vehicles in Vietnam for July. The company’s expansion goals include reaching new international markets in countries like Indonesia, the Philippines, India, and the Middle East.
As part of its community engagement efforts, Bob Weidinger from the Greater New York Automobile Dealers Association donated $25,000 towards expanding training for automotive service students.
VinFast’s positive reception highlights a growing consumer interest in electric vehicles within the U.S. market, showing promise for the sustained growth and expansion of the brand.
FAQ
What is the significance of VinFast San Diego’s opening?
VinFast San Diego represents the company’s first authorized dealership in California, marking its shift from a direct sales model to a franchise dealership model.
What models are available at VinFast San Diego?
The dealership offers VinFast’s two flagship electric SUVs, the mid-size VF 8 and the full-size VF 9, both equipped with competitive pricing and leasing options.
What warranties are offered with the VF 8 and VF 9?
Both models come with a 10-year or 125,000-mile vehicle warranty and a 10-year unlimited mileage warranty for the battery for non-commercial use.
How many dealerships does VinFast have in the U.S.?
VinFast has established nearly 30 authorized dealerships across 14 states, with a focus on major markets.
What is VinFast’s future expansion strategy?
The company aims to expand its dealership network across all 50 states while targeting new international markets, particularly in Asia and the Middle East.
Key Features of VinFast’s Electric SUVs
| Feature | VF 8 | VF 9 |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $39,900 | $62,900 |
| Leasing Options | From $279/month | From $449/month |
| Vehicle Warranty | 10 years or 125,000 miles | 10 years or 125,000 miles |
| Battery Warranty | 10-year unlimited mileage (non-commercial) | 10-year unlimited mileage (non-commercial) |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Investing.com: VinFast Opens First California Dealership in San Diego
- PR Newswire: VinFast Celebrates Grand Opening of First California Dealership in San Diego
- The EV Report: VinFast Opens First California Dealership
- CBS 8: Vietnamese EV Maker VinFast Launch First California Dealership in San Diego
- Wikipedia: VinFast
Author: STAFF HERE COSTA MESA WRITER
COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER The COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECostaMesa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Costa Mesa, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the OC Fair, Concerts in the Park, and Fish Fry. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce and Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Orange Coast, plus leading businesses in retail, fashion, and technology that power the local economy such as Vans, Experian, and South Coast Plaza. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, HERESanDiego.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
