If you’ve been following the buzz around Vietnamese EV maker VinFast, you might have heard rumors that the company was packing up and heading home. Well, buckle up, because the opposite is true. Instead of retreating, VinFast just announced a fresh distribution deal in France that solidifies its presence here. Starting in June 2025, all VinFast sales in France will go through Astrada Simva, marking the first official franchise for the brand in the country.
That means instead of managing retail operations directly, VinFast is teaming up with a seasoned European distributor. Astrada Simva will handle everything from showrooms to test drives, and even maintenance coordination. In a statement, VinFast reiterated its commitment to “establishing a strong foothold in the European market and driving the transition to green mobility.” By partnering with a local expert, the company hopes to deliver a smoother, more familiar experience for French drivers.
For those wondering what sparked this shift, think of it as a strategic move to streamline operations. VinFast’s original direct-to-consumer model worked well in Vietnam but faced challenges adapting to Europe’s complex dealership landscape. Rather than gamble on trial and error, VinFast opted for a trusted partner who already knows the ins and outs of French automotive distribution. The result? A more predictable rollout, better customer service, and, yes, more EVs on French roads.
And let’s be honest, after a rocky start with sluggish sales across Europe, this is the kind of bold step the brand needed. VinFast isn’t just aiming to survive; it wants to thrive. By leaning into local expertise, it can focus on what it does best—building interesting electric cars—and leave the dealership legwork to Astrada Simva.
Showrooms, Models, and Local Footprint
So what does this mean for showroom hunters and test-drive enthusiasts? First off, mark your calendar for June 2025. That’s when Astrada Simva will open a brand-new VinFast showroom in Aix-en-Provence. This sleek, modern space will showcase the two current models: the compact VF6 and the midsize VF8. You’ll be able to walk in, grab a brochure, and get behind the wheel for a spin without jumping through hoops.
The VF8 has already started rolling into customers’ garages, while deliveries for the smaller VF6 are set to follow in the coming months. Both cars have drawn attention for their sharp styling and competitive range. The VF8, in particular, boasts impressive acceleration and a high-tech cabin that feels special in this price bracket. If you’re curious, you’ll soon have a chance to experience it yourself in Provence or future outlets across France.
Beyond Aix-en-Provence, VinFast plans to expand to Germany and the Netherlands with similar franchise partnerships. By building a network of local outlets, the brand can ramp up visibility and tap into markets hungry for new EV options. And rumor has it that a sub-€10,000 ultra-compact SUV—known as the VF3—is under consideration for a European launch. While VinFast hasn’t confirmed dates or pricing yet, this little EV could shake up urban mobility if and when it arrives.
Even without the VF3, France will be home to a more robust VinFast presence than before. With strategic locations and test-drive-friendly policies, the brand aims to win over drivers who might be on the fence or simply seeking an alternative to mainstream EVs. After all, a positive showroom experience can turn a skeptic into a brand evangelist overnight.
Service, Support, and Future Prospects
Sales are only half the story—service and support complete the picture. VinFast currently operates 22 technical centers across Europe, 12 of which are in France. These centers handle everything from warranty repairs to high-voltage system maintenance. Parts are flown in up to five times a day to keep turnaround times low and customers rolling again fast.
In addition to routine maintenance, the network offers software updates and diagnostics that can be done remotely or on-site. This attention to support infrastructure shows VinFast isn’t just chasing quick sales; it’s building a foundation for long-term customer satisfaction. Remember the collapse of Fisker? VinFast is determined not to let history repeat itself in Europe.
Looking ahead, VinFast’s roadmap includes more models, broader dealer coverage, and deeper investment in local teams. The company has publicly stated it’s here for the long haul and plans to keep expanding its lineup and retail footprint. Whether that means deploying fast-charging stations or rolling out a hatchback-sized city car, VinFast is laying the groundwork now.
So, if you’ve been waiting to give a Vietnamese EV a shot, France just became a whole lot more accessible. With a new distribution partner, a showroom opening next year, and an expanding support network, VinFast is betting big on European drivers. And judging by this latest move, they’re not going anywhere anytime soon.
