As fuel prices soared during the 2026 crisis, VinFast found itself uniquely positioned to capitalize on shifting consumer priorities, helping accelerate EV adoption through aggressive expansion, innovative programs, and a growing ecosystem—ultimately becoming the country’s leading BEV brand.
The Calm Before the Storm
Prior to the fuel crisis of 2026, EV adoption was already gaining ground. Interest was growing, but it was more of a trickle than a flood. Filipinos weren’t exactly rushing to dealerships for the latest EV, and ICE vehicles still ruled the roads. However, “value” and “bang for your buck” had already become familiar parts of the conversation.
Then came 2026, when a conflict between the United States and Iran triggered a global fuel price crisis, sending shockwaves across the world and putting both financial pressure and uncertainty on Filipino motorists.
“Panic Buying Is Real”
That was the exact social media post from the head of one of the country’s leading new-energy vehicle brands.
Oil prices that were already climbing continued to rise week after week. Fuel prices kept increasing until diesel crossed the PHP 100-per-liter mark for the first time. It was a devastating figure for many working-class Filipinos.
There was real drama on the streets. Roads were noticeably less crowded. TNVS drivers were lining up for government assistance, while many jeepney operators were taking home far less than what they were used to earning.
Almost overnight, operating costs went from being a consideration to becoming a necessity.
A Chance to Shine
Even before the fuel crisis, VinFast was already present in the country. Its bright advertisements, aggressive marketing, and growing community of supporters had helped establish awareness, particularly around its wonder baby, the VF 3.
The cyan-green GSM VinFast EVs roaming around Metro Manila had also become a familiar sight. Some of the units we rode in had already accumulated over 30,000 kilometers, proving that these vehicles weren’t simply showpieces.
Still, VinFast remained relatively small compared to the Chinese onslaught of hybrids and EVs entering the market.
Led by Toti Zara, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of VinFast Southeast Asia, the company kept working quietly in the background. New dealerships were added, offers were streamlined, and bold programs such as the battery subscription model and the industry’s first buyback commitment gave customers something different to consider.
Combined, these moves positioned VinFast to recover from a slow start and establish itself as a serious player in the Philippine EV market.
The Cracks Are There, But They Are Healing
VinFast’s readiness to compete with the big players was always questioned—not only by the media but by the general public as well.
The VF 3 remains the company’s wonder kid. Its playful styling, endless customization possibilities, and passionate community have helped it build a following that rivals some long-established nameplates.
However, VinFast cannot rely on a one-hit wonder forever.
Based on our experience, the vehicles still have their quirks, and there is plenty of room for improvement. In fact, the very first media loan unit that I was supposed to drive had its delivery cancelled because of what was described as a transmission-related issue. According to actual owners, it was more of a firmware concern than a mechanical problem.
We have yet to give the VF 3 a proper long-term test.
Still, after driving the VF 6 twice, I noticed a definite improvement compared to my first experience. Whether that came through software updates or simply because I began seeing the bigger picture of what VinFast is building, I’m not entirely sure.
What became clearer was the importance of the ecosystem VinFast has been pushing so aggressively.
I still believe the VF 6 is one significant price adjustment away from becoming a genuine volume seller.
Scooters and Seven-Seaters
While we haven’t started covering two-wheelers yet, we recently had the opportunity to return to Vietnam for another series of media activities.
Beyond the factory tours and presentations, we finally got behind the wheel of the MPV 7.
This seven-seater is essentially an upgraded version of the Limo Green, which already offers over 400 kilometers of range and a highly practical package. If the sheer number of Limo Green units operating in Vietnam tells us anything, it’s that the platform works.
The MPV 7 builds on that formula with a more comfortable and family-friendly interior, improved styling with larger wheels, and additional features buyers are often willing to pay for—such as a leather-wrapped steering wheel, cruise control, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay.
The improved finish, tighter fit and finish, and overall driving experience make a noticeable difference.
At Php 1,248,000 with the battery subscription program, the MPV 7 may very well be VinFast’s strongest offering yet.
What’s Next?
During the recent EIC conference, VinFast didn’t exactly lay out all of its future plans for the Philippines. Instead, it was more of an opportunity for the media to ask questions and get a better understanding of where the company is headed.
What became clear, however, was VinFast’s commitment to continuous improvement. Product updates keep coming, software enhancements continue to roll out, and the company appears focused on refining both its vehicles and the ownership experience.
Whether VinFast can maintain its momentum against an increasingly crowded field of Chinese EVs and hybrids remains to be seen.
But if the fuel crisis of 2026 taught Filipinos anything, it’s that operating costs and long-term value matter more than ever.
And when that conversation happens, VinFast is no longer standing on the sidelines.
It’s very much part of it.
