September 19, 2025, marked a milestone for electric vehicle (EV) innovation in Mindanao. In the atrium of SM City Davao, VinFast — the fast-rising Vietnamese EV brand — held an exclusive soft-opening event, unveiling two of its newest models: the VF3 and VF5. As a local Key Opinion Leader (KOL), I got to see, touch, and experience what VinFast is bringing to the Philippines. Here’s what went down, what it means, and why this is more than just a car launch.
What VinFast Is & Why This Matters
VinFast has been making waves in Southeast Asia and has rapidly expanded beyond Vietnam. Their goal: to bring high-quality, stylish, accessible electric vehicles to markets just like ours.
In the Philippines, the VF5, VF7, and VF9 were among the first models introduced through dealerships opened in mid-2024.
And just recently, the VF3 made its formal entry into the market. Pre-orders opened from September 19 to 30, 2024, with special introductory pricing for those who reserve within this period.
So the SM City Davao event fits right into VinFast’s broader roll-out plan: letting people see the cars in person, experience their build, features, design, and decide whether to reserve.
What I Saw: VF3 & VF5 Up Close
Here’s a breakdown of what makes these models stand out, based partly on sources + what I observed at the Atrium.
Pricing, Warranties & Perks
What VinFast is offering is not just cars, but a “package”. Here are a few key things:
- Pre-order perks: Special pricing for early reservations (as mentioned with the VF3).
- Battery subscription vs battery-included: If you don’t want to buy the battery outright, there are subscription models (monthly fees depending on usage). It lowers the upfront cost significantly.
- Warranty: For VF3, for example, there’s a vehicle warranty (7 years / 160,000 km) and an 8-year unlimited mileage warranty for the battery (if purchased outright). If subscribed, they cover battery maintenance and replacing battery capacity if it drops below 70%.
Why the Davao Soft Opening Felt Special
- It wasn’t just about showing product; it was about bringing the VinFast experience closer. For many in Davao, this might be the first time to see these EVs in person.
- It gives the chance for potential buyers to touch, feel, ask questions — something that photos or specs can’t deliver.
- It builds awareness about EVs — what owning one might mean with regard to charging, maintenance, warranties.
- For influencers/KOLs, it’s also an opportunity to share honest impressions locally, which helps people in Davao or nearby provinces make informed decisions.
Challenges & What to Watch Out For
From what I gathered and what I’ve heard:
- Charging infrastructure: One of the biggest hurdles for EV adoption in Mindanao is whether there are enough fast chargers, whether they are reliable, how accessible. If you get a VinFast, where will you charge?
- Spare parts & servicing: Warranty is good, but regular servicing and availability of parts locally will affect ownership experience.
- Resale & market acceptance: Early adopters might pay more, but how the market values EVs in resale will be interesting.
What This Means for Davao & Beyond
VinFast’s entry adds competition in the EV space here, which often leads to better pricing, more options, possibly more innovation.
It signals that Davao is on the radar for big automotive/technology brands. That could push local governments or mall developers to improve EV infrastructure (charging stations, incentives).
Helps encourage awareness of sustainability: fewer emissions, cleaner air, less dependence on fossil-fuels — gradual change, but meaningful.
Attending the soft opening was exciting. The VF3 and VF5 feel like serious contenders in the emerging EV market in the Philippines. They are sleek, thoughtful, and clearly aimed at making EVs more accessible. For people in Davao who’ve been considering going electric, this is a chance to move from curiosity to action.
If you’re thinking of making the switch, here are some tips:
1. Try to test drive one, even informally — to get a feel for acceleration, comfort, visibility. Visit Kar Asia at Bajada or visit soon their showroom at Sta. Lucia Mall.
2. Map out charging options around your home/work — convenience matters.
3. Factor in battery subscription vs owning battery. Short- vs long-term cost differences could be significant.
4. Talk to others who own EVs locally — forums, KOLs, social media — get feedback on how realistic the specs are in real-life.
I’m truly glad I got the chance to witness VinFast’s first-ever exhibit here in Davao City. Seeing up close how this Vietnamese brand brings innovation and sustainability together was such an inspiring experience. If you haven’t checked it out yet, make sure to drop by the VinFast exhibit at SM City Davao Atrium before it ends on October 9 — it’s definitely worth your time!
Thanks so much VinFast Davao Team
