As Vietnamese automaker VinFast prepares for its commercial launch in India, it has registered the design for its most affordable electric vehicle, the Minio Green. This move signals a clear intent to target the country’s growing demand for budget-friendly urban electric mobility. The Minio Green, a compact three-door hatchback, is positioned as a no-frills, practical solution for city commuting, drawing comparisons to the MG Comet EV.
Basic, Yet Functional Design and Features
The VinFast Minio Green prioritizes affordability and functionality in its design. It is slightly longer and taller than the MG Comet, with a longer wheelbase, but maintains a narrow profile suited for congested city streets. The exterior is minimalist, featuring 13-inch steel wheels without covers and basic flap-type door handles. While the round headlights are LED units, the tail-lights are simple halogen lamps.
The interior follows a similarly spartan approach. The dashboard is basic, lacking an infotainment screen and featuring only two central AC vents. It comes with manual air-conditioning and an FM radio with two speakers for entertainment. The power window switches are unconventionally placed between the front seats. Despite these cost-saving measures, the Minio Green includes a full-color digital driver’s display and a two-passenger rear bench seat with cupholders.
Performance and Powertrain
The Minio Green is powered by a 14.7 kWh battery, which provides a certified range of up to 170 kilometers on the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC). However, real-world range is expected to be lower. The electric motor produces a modest 27 bhp and 65 Nm of torque, allowing for a top speed of 80 km/h, which is adequate for its intended urban environment.
VinFast’s Broader India Strategy
The registration of the Minio Green design is part of VinFast’s larger strategy for the Indian market. The company plans to begin its operations with the launch of the VF6 and VF7 electric SUVs. Following these, the VF3, the company’s smallest SUV, is slated for a 2026 release as its third and most affordable model in the country. While the Minio Green’s price in Vietnam is equivalent to approximately ₹9 lakh, the slightly larger and more equipped VF3 starts at a price only about ₹1 lakh higher, suggesting the VF3 is more likely to be VinFast’s primary contender in the entry-level segment. The company has also registered the design for a larger, three-row electric SUV, the Limo Green, indicating a comprehensive product portfolio for India.
