Core Insights - VinFast has successfully opened its first authorized dealership in California, marking a significant step in its global strategy to expand its dealership network and commitment to American consumers [1][2][5] - The San Diego dealership will provide consumers with the opportunity to explore and test drive VinFast's electric SUVs, VF 8 and VF 9, while also offering comprehensive after-sales services [4][6] Dealership Expansion - VinFast is accelerating the development of its dealership network in the U.S., with California identified as a priority state due to its significant electric vehicle growth potential [3][5] - The company aims to fully transition to a franchise dealership model across all 50 states, having established nearly 30 authorized dealerships in 14 key states [5][6] Product Offering - The VF 8 is priced at an MSRP of $39,900 for the Eco trim and $44,900 for the Plus trim, with leasing options starting at $279/month; the VF 9 starts at $62,900 with leasing from $449/month [6] - All VinFast EV models in the U.S. come with a leading warranty of 10 years or 125,000 miles for the vehicle and a 10-year unlimited mileage warranty for the battery under non-commercial use [7] Strategic Vision - VinFast is committed to making electric vehicles more accessible and is implementing competitive sales policies in the U.S. market [6][9] - The company is also expanding its global presence into high-potential markets such as Indonesia, the Philippines, India, and the Middle East, while maintaining a diverse product range [8][10]

Core Viewpoint - VinFast Auto has shown impressive growth in vehicle sales but is facing significant challenges in expanding into the U.S. and European markets, leading to wider losses and a decline in stock price [1][2][7]. Sales Performance - In the fourth quarter, VinFast delivered 53,139 electric vehicles, a 143% increase year-over-year, with full-year deliveries reaching 97,399 units, up 192% from 2023 [1]. - Vehicle sales for the fourth quarter amounted to $634.5 million, reflecting a 77.8% increase compared to the previous year [2]. Financial Challenges - The company reported a gross loss of $536.4 million in the fourth quarter, which is a 176% increase from the prior year and a 341.3% increase from the third quarter of 2024 [2]. U.S. Expansion Strategy - VinFast is shifting its strategy in the U.S. by closing direct-to-consumer showrooms in California and relying on a growing dealership franchise network, which currently has 38 dealers in 16 states [3]. - The company is facing challenges as a relatively unknown brand, with only 367 vehicle registrations in the first two months of the year, an 18% decline from the same period last year [5]. Tariff Implications - Recent tariffs on imported vehicles are expected to expand to vehicle parts, complicating the company's import strategy for models like the VF 8 and VF 9 [4]. - The decision to suspend plans for a U.S. factory further complicates VinFast's expansion efforts [4]. European Market Strategy - In Europe, VinFast has launched the VF 6 to complement the VF 8, but it faces an uphill battle with only 12 self-operated showrooms and two dealer stores as of March 31 [6]. Investment Considerations - The 20% decline in share price may attract some investors, but the company remains largely unproven outside its home market, with increased costs and complications due to tariffs [7]. - If VinFast can establish itself as a recognized EV brand in the U.S. and Europe, it could reward investors, but this remains uncertain [8].

Core Insights - VinFast Auto Ltd. reported significant growth in electric vehicle (EV) deliveries and revenues for the fourth quarter and full year of 2024, indicating strong market reception and business momentum [2][3][4]. Financial Performance - In Q4 2024, VinFast delivered 53,139 EVs, a 143% increase from Q3 2024, and for the full year, total EV deliveries reached 97,399, up approximately 192% from 2023 [2][3]. - Total revenues for Q4 2024 were VND16,496.4 billion (US$677.9 million), a 69.8% increase year-over-year and a 33.8% increase quarter-over-quarter. For the full year, revenues were VND44,019.6 billion (US$1,808.9 million), representing a 57.9% increase from 2023 [4]. - The company reported a gross loss of VND25,277.6 billion (US$1,038.7 million) for 2024, with a negative gross margin of 57.4% and a net loss of VND77,354.9 billion (US$3,178.8 million) [4]. Strategic Initiatives - VinFast's founder, Mr. Pham Nhat Vuong, has committed VND50 trillion (US$2.1 billion) in grants to support the company, with VND10 trillion (US$410.9 million) already disbursed as of March 31, 2025 [6][7]. - The company aims to double its global vehicle deliveries in 2025 while maintaining flexibility in its business strategy to adapt to market dynamics [16]. Market Expansion - VinFast is expanding its presence in key markets, including Indonesia, the Philippines, North America, and Europe, with plans to establish a widespread dealer network and enhance its distribution capabilities [10][11][12][13][14]. - In Vietnam, the company is launching a new "Green" product line designed for transportation services, with deliveries expected to start in Q2 2025 [14][15]. Leadership Statements - VinFast's Chairwoman, Madam Thuy Le, emphasized the company's strong performance in 2024 and its commitment to innovation and quality in EV production [8]. - CFO Ms. Lan Anh Nguyen highlighted the foundation for sustained volume growth in 2025, focusing on R&D and capital expenditure to improve vehicle quality and performance [9].