Weighing the Benefits: The VF 3 vs. A-Segment Cars vs. Motorbikes

VinFast launched the VF 3, its electric mini-SUV, in the Philippines last September 17, offering a budget-friendly option with low operating costs comparable to A-segment cars and some two-wheeled vehicles. In this story, VinFast compares the numbers and highlights the benefits that demonstrate why the VF 3 stands out as a truly cost-effective vehicle for Filipinos.

MANILA, PHILIPPINES |&nbsp; 24 September 2024 -- As the electric vehicle (EV) market expands globally, VinFast, the upstart EV maker, officially launched its VF 3 mini-SUV to the Philippines last September 17, 2024.&nbsp; This marks the first VF 3 international launch outside of its home market, and VinFast’s latest offering comes with bold claims: the electric mini-SUV promises better comfort, weather protection, and a monthly operating cost that rivals that of some A-segment cars and the humble gasoline motorbike.

The idea of owning a mini-SUV with operating costs almost at par with an entry-level vehicle or a motorcycle seems too good to be true, but VinFast may just have found a way to make it possible.

A Cost Comparison: VF 3 vs. Gasoline Vehicles VinFast has set the VF 3 at an introductory price of Php 605,000 (with battery subscription) or Php 705,000 (with battery purchase) for early customers. After September 30, the prices will revert to Php 645,000 and Php 745,000, respectively. However, the real game-changer here isn’t the purchase price but rather the operating costs of owning a VF 3.

To see how the VF 3 fares in comparison to its gasoline-powered alternatives in the Philippines, VinFast crunched some numbers and compared the monthly operating costs of the VF 3 (both battery purchase and subscription versions) to those of a typical ICE car in the A-segment and a standard gasoline motorbike. Here's how they did it:

Methodology VinFast began by analyzing the average fuel consumption of three common A-segment ICE cars (price range of Php 660,000 to Php 840,000) and three popular gasoline motorbikes (price range of Php 81,000 to Php 166,900), resulting in 5.803 L/100km and 2.12 L/100km, respectively. They also calculated the VF 3's energy consumption at 13.95 kWh/100km.&nbsp; Additionally, VinFast factored in the average electricity cost (Php 11.34/kWh) and gasoline price (Php 64.34/L) in the Philippines. For the VF 3, they considered VinFast's battery subscription plan, which reduces the initial price by Php 100,000 and added a monthly fee based on travel distance:

- Under 1,500 km: Php 2,800 - 1,500-2,500 km: Php 3,800 - Over 2,500 km: Php 6,300

The monthly operating costs for driving 1,500, 2,500, and 3,500 kilometers were calculated using these figures. The fuel or energy costs for an average ICE motorbike/car and the VF 3 (with battery purchase) were determined using the following formula: (Monthly Distance) x (Energy Cost Per Kilometer) x (Fuel/Electricity Price). For the VF 3 with a battery subscription, the subscription fee was added to the calculation.

As the table shows, the VF 3's battery purchase version costs about half as much to run as the average ICE car in the A-segment, particularly as distance increases. Even with the battery subscription plan, the VF 3 still offers a lower operating cost compared to gasoline cars, though it is significantly higher than a motorbike due to the added subscription fee (although the subscription model already helps lower the initial purchase price by Php 100,000, potentially amounting to years of subscription fee). The Evident Benefits of the VF 3 For budget-minded consumers, the VF 3's value proposition is clear. At a slightly higher operating cost than a motorbike, you gain the comfort of a mini-SUV, complete with air conditioning and shelter from the elements, all while enjoying the fuel savings of an electric vehicle. For those considering an entry-level car, the VF 3 is a cost-efficient solution for the daily commute.&nbsp; Perfect for city driving, the VF 3's compact size makes it easy to navigate urban areas, while still providing the safety typically found in larger cars.

Maintaining an electric vehicle is also significantly simpler compared to an ICE car or even a motorcycle. Electric cars like the VF 3 require far less maintenance. There’s no engine oil to change, and fewer mechanical parts mean a longer maintenance cycle.&nbsp; Moreover, the VF 3 is a personal statement with 9 colors to choose from and offers a playful canvas for customization, truly allowing you to put your own stamp on the car.

VinFast also offers one of the best after-sales service programs in the market. The VF 3 comes with a 7-year or 160,000-kilometer warranty for the vehicle itself, while the battery (if purchased) has an 8-year, unlimited mileage warranty.&nbsp; If you opt for the battery subscription, VinFast takes it a step further by providing free battery replacement if the charging capacity drops below 70%. This assurance goes a long way in eliminating concerns about battery lifespan and overall vehicle reliability.

Is the VF 3 Worth It? Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal needs and preferences. If you're looking for something more substantial than a motorbike but still want to keep your monthly operating costs low, the VF 3 presents a compelling case as a fully enclosed vehicle with better safety, comfort, and practicality.&nbsp; Just like in Vietnam, the VF 3 offers city-dwellers in the Philippines an affordable entry point into the world of electric vehicles without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

Launch Promo Pricing From September 26 to October 15, early customers who reserve the VF 3 will enjoy several attractive incentives and privileges, including a special price of Php 605,000 (battery subscription) or Php 705,000 (battery included). After this period, the prices will revert to the MSRP of Php 645,000 (battery subscription) and Php 745,000 (battery included).

Additionally, early VF 3 customers will have the privilege of choosing from nine striking exterior paint colors, including four base colors and five premium options, free of charge. Premium paint colors will cost an additional Php 20,000 after this period.&nbsp; Moreover, for only Php 40,000, early customers can customize their car's paint beyond the nine available colors. This will be the only time VinFast offers this exclusive privilege for the VF 3.

VinFast is accepting deposits of Php 5,000 through its official website (<a href="https://shop.vinfastauto.ph/vf3">https://shop.vinfastauto.ph/vf3</a>) or at authorized dealerships (refundable under VinFast's terms).

Since its launch a week ago, the VinFast VF 3 has sparked significant interest, particularly among those considering buying an electric vehicle (EV) or purchasing their first car. As one of the most affordable EV options in the Philippines, the VF 3 combines low operating costs with the practicality of an A-segment car and even some two-wheeled vehicles.

VinFast has prepared this story that presents a cost breakdown of owning a VF 3 and highlights the key benefits, thereby demonstrating why the VF 3 is a game-changer for Filipinos. This mini-SUV E is designed to offer both practicality and savings, making it an ideal choice in today’s market.

Additionally, customers who reserve the VF 3 from September 26 to October 15 can avail of a special price for as low as Php 605,000. More details on this special introductory pricing are found in the press release. <h2>Weighing the Benefits: The VF 3 vs. A-Segment Cars vs. Motorbikes</h2> VinFast launched the VF 3, its electric mini-SUV, in the Philippines last September 17, offering a budget-friendly option with low operating costs comparable to A-segment cars and some two-wheeled vehicles. In this story, VinFast compares the numbers and highlights the benefits that demonstrate why the VF 3 stands out as a truly cost-effective vehicle for Filipinos. MANILA, PHILIPPINES |&nbsp; 24 September 2024 -- As the electric vehicle (EV) market expands globally, VinFast, the upstart EV maker, officially launched its VF 3 mini-SUV to the Philippines last September 17, 2024.&nbsp; This marks the first VF 3 international launch outside of its home market, and VinFast’s latest offering comes with bold claims: the electric mini-SUV promises better comfort, weather protection, and a monthly operating cost that rivals that of some A-segment cars and the humble gasoline motorbike.The idea of owning a mini-SUV with operating costs almost at par with an entry-level vehicle or a motorcycle seems too good to be true, but VinFast may just have found a way to make it possible.<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/ed616f8c-4a46-4794-234e-1bcde5d0c500/public" alt="The VinFast VF 3 officially landed in the Philippines last September 17, 2024" /> A Cost Comparison: VF 3 vs. Gasoline Vehicles VinFast has set the VF 3 at an introductory price of Php 605,000 (with battery subscription) or Php 705,000 (with battery purchase) for early customers. After September 30, the prices will revert to Php 645,000 and Php 745,000, respectively. However, the real game-changer here isn’t the purchase price but rather the operating costs of owning a VF 3.To see how the VF 3 fares in comparison to its gasoline-powered alternatives in the Philippines, VinFast crunched some numbers and compared the monthly operating costs of the VF 3 (both battery purchase and subscription versions) to those of a typical ICE car in the A-segment and a standard gasoline motorbike. Here's how they did it: Methodology VinFast began by analyzing the average fuel consumption of three common A-segment ICE cars (price range of Php 660,000 to Php 840,000) and three popular gasoline motorbikes (price range of Php 81,000 to Php 166,900), resulting in 5.803 L/100km and 2.12 L/100km, respectively. They also calculated the VF 3's energy consumption at 13.95 kWh/100km.&nbsp; Additionally, VinFast factored in the average electricity cost (Php 11.34/kWh) and gasoline price (Php 64.34/L) in the Philippines. For the VF 3, they considered VinFast's battery subscription plan, which reduces the initial price by Php 100,000 and added a monthly fee based on travel distance:- Under 1,500 km: Php 2,800 - 1,500-2,500 km: Php 3,800 - Over 2,500 km: Php 6,300The monthly operating costs for driving 1,500, 2,500, and 3,500 kilometers were calculated using these figures. The fuel or energy costs for an average ICE motorbike/car and the VF 3 (with battery purchase) were determined using the following formula: (Monthly Distance) x (Energy Cost Per Kilometer) x (Fuel/Electricity Price). For the VF 3 with a battery subscription, the subscription fee was added to the calculation. <img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/95d5ce8e-2007-4777-da32-626300315c00/public" alt="Image" />As the table shows, the VF 3's battery purchase version costs about half as much to run as the average ICE car in the A-segment, particularly as distance increases. Even with the battery subscription plan, the VF 3 still offers a lower operating cost compared to gasoline cars, though it is significantly higher than a motorbike due to the added subscription fee (although the subscription model already helps lower the initial purchase price by Php 100,000, potentially amounting to years of subscription fee). The Evident Benefits of the VF 3 For budget-minded consumers, the VF 3's value proposition is clear. At a slightly higher operating cost than a motorbike, you gain the comfort of a mini-SUV, complete with air conditioning and shelter from the elements, all while enjoying the fuel savings of an electric vehicle. For those considering an entry-level car, the VF 3 is a cost-efficient solution for the daily commute.&nbsp; Perfect for city driving, the VF 3's compact size makes it easy to navigate urban areas, while still providing the safety typically found in larger cars.<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/833971fc-bbab-4b32-08f0-3874f675c100/public" alt="Image" />Maintaining an electric vehicle is also significantly simpler compared to an ICE car or even a motorcycle. Electric cars like the VF 3 require far less maintenance. There’s no engine oil to change, and fewer mechanical parts mean a longer maintenance cycle.&nbsp; Moreover, the VF 3 is a personal statement with 9 colors to choose from and offers a playful canvas for customization, truly allowing you to put your own stamp on the car.VinFast also offers one of the best after-sales service programs in the market. The VF 3 comes with a 7-year or 160,000-kilometer warranty for the vehicle itself, while the battery (if purchased) has an 8-year, unlimited mileage warranty.&nbsp; If you opt for the battery subscription, VinFast takes it a step further by providing free battery replacement if the charging capacity drops below 70%. This assurance goes a long way in eliminating concerns about battery lifespan and overall vehicle reliability.<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/8bd51724-ad66-4134-3feb-3fe45e1e7600/public" alt="Image" />Is the VF 3 Worth It? Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal needs and preferences. If you're looking for something more substantial than a motorbike but still want to keep your monthly operating costs low, the VF 3 presents a compelling case as a fully enclosed vehicle with better safety, comfort, and practicality.&nbsp; Just like in Vietnam, the VF 3 offers city-dwellers in the Philippines an affordable entry point into the world of electric vehicles without sacrificing comfort or convenience.<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/28f575a2-49fd-4e5b-7805-9b9ad243c200/public" alt="Image" />Launch Promo Pricing From September 26 to October 15, early customers who reserve the VF 3 will enjoy several attractive incentives and privileges, including a special price of Php 605,000 (battery subscription) or Php 705,000 (battery included). After this period, the prices will revert to the MSRP of Php 645,000 (battery subscription) and Php 745,000 (battery included).Additionally, early VF 3 customers will have the privilege of choosing from nine striking exterior paint colors, including four base colors and five premium options, free of charge. Premium paint colors will cost an additional Php 20,000 after this period.&nbsp; Moreover, for only Php 40,000, early customers can customize their car's paint beyond the nine available colors. This will be the only time VinFast offers this exclusive privilege for the VF 3.VinFast is accepting deposits of Php 5,000 through its official website (<a href="https://shop.vinfastauto.ph/vf3">https://shop.vinfastauto.ph/vf3</a>) or at authorized dealerships (refundable under VinFast's terms). <img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/51f38847-a6a5-4282-ddca-70260dd0f800/public" alt="Image" />

Car / Car Supplies

Motorcycles / Motorcycle Supplies

Automotive / Automotive Supplies

Goods and services

Since its launch a week ago, the VinFast VF 3 has sparked significant interest, particularly among those considering buying an electric vehicle (EV) or purchasing their first car. As one of the most affordable EV options in the Philippines, the VF 3 combines low operating costs with the practicality of an A-segment car and even some two-wheeled vehicles.

VinFast has prepared this story that presents a cost breakdown of owning a VF 3 and highlights the key benefits, thereby demonstrating why the VF 3 is a game-changer for Filipinos. This mini-SUV E is designed to offer both practicality and savings, making it an ideal choice in today’s market.

Additionally, customers who reserve the VF 3 from September 26 to October 15 can avail of a special price for as low as Php 605,000.  More details on this special introductory pricing are found in the press release.  

WEIGHING THE BENEFITS:  THE VF 3 vs. A-SEGMENT CARS vs. MOTORBIKES 

The public's appetite for gas guzzlers did not show signs of slowing down as local car manufacturers saw sales fatten in March.

Total motor vehicle sales in March leapfrogged 29% year-on-year to 36,880 units in March, a joint report by the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines Inc. (CAMPI) and Truck Manufacturers Association (TMA) showed on Wednesday.

Sales in March proved to be higher than the preceding month, benefitting largely from the domestic economy's full reopening. The industry was roiled by headwinds, as sales waxed and waned, since the pandemic ravaged the global economy in 2020.

'It is worth noting that the March 2023 sales performance is the second highest monthly performance in a post-pandemic time, after the more than 37,000-unit sales level recorded in December last year,' said CAMPI President Rommel Gutierrez.

First-quarter sales amounted to 97,824 units, expanding 30.1% on-year, CAMPI noted.

'In the same way, favorable economic conditions are also an important driving factor for sustained growth,' Gutierrez added.

Vehicle sales are often used as barometer of economic strength. The central bank, for instance, closely follows this gauge to measure consumer appetite for durable goods.

Household consumption represents 70% of annual economic output, and big purchases like cars materially add to gross domestic product when produced more.

In 2022, the economy grew at an average of 7.6% year-on-year, a figure that exceeded expectations as consumption showed resilience in the face of a multi-year high inflation.

Data broken down showed sales of passenger cars, comprising a 27.27% market share last month, skyrocketed 51.8% year-on-year. On a monthly basis, growth trailed at 39.91%.

Commercial vehicle sales rose 16.3% year-on-year to 26,822 units in March. This segment accounted for 72.73% market share in the previous month, inching up 13.1% month-on-month.

<h1>Local car sales balloon in March despite inflation in Philippines</h1>Sales in March proved to be higher than the preceding monthThe public's appetite for gas guzzlers did not show signs of slowing down as local car manufacturers saw sales fatten in March.Total motor vehicle sales in March leapfrogged 29% year-on-year to 36,880 units in March, a joint report by the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines Inc. (CAMPI) and Truck Manufacturers Association (TMA) showed on Wednesday.Sales in March proved to be higher than the preceding month, benefitting largely from the domestic economy's full reopening. The industry was roiled by headwinds, as sales waxed and waned, since the pandemic ravaged the global economy in 2020.'It is worth noting that the March 2023 sales performance is the second highest monthly performance in a post-pandemic time, after the more than 37,000-unit sales level recorded in December last year,' said CAMPI President Rommel Gutierrez.First-quarter sales amounted to 97,824 units, expanding 30.1% on-year, CAMPI noted.'In the same way, favorable economic conditions are also an important driving factor for sustained growth,' Gutierrez added.Vehicle sales are often used as barometer of economic strength. The central bank, for instance, closely follows this gauge to measure consumer appetite for durable goods.Household consumption represents 70% of annual economic output, and big purchases like cars materially add to gross domestic product when produced more.In 2022, the economy grew at an average of 7.6% year-on-year, a figure that exceeded expectations as consumption showed resilience in the face of a multi-year high inflation.Data broken down showed sales of passenger cars, comprising a 27.27% market share last month, skyrocketed 51.8% year-on-year. On a monthly basis, growth trailed at 39.91%.Commercial vehicle sales rose 16.3% year-on-year to 26,822 units in March. This segment accounted for 72.73% market share in the previous month, inching up 13.1% month-on-month.

Automotive / Motorcycle / Bicycle

Sales in March proved to be higher than the preceding month

Local car sales balloon in March despite inflation in Philippines

MANILA, Philippines – Toyota Philippines is prodding the government to provide an inclusive tax incentives to electric vehicles (EVs) to promote the electrification of the automotive industry and help mitigate the impact of climate change.

In an interview with Sunshine Cabrera, public relations head of Toyota PH, during last week’s 2023 International Ecotourism Travel Mart in Silang, Cavite, the carmaker representative said that incentives are important to sway Filipinos into shifting to EVs.

"But siguro, one of the ways of thinking ng customers kasi ngayon siyempre, 'pag electrified or hybrid, medyo mahal than regular," Cabrera said explaining the need for inclusive incentives to help the country move forward to using new technologies.

Toyota Philippines has yet to release a fully electric vehicle line in the country as it gears toward hybrid vehicles, noting the lack of infrastructure in the country.

"I think that would help not just the automotive industry but also other industries — kung motorcycle man — because it will also help promote the electrification of their products," Cabrera said.

Malacanang in January released Executive Order No. 12 series of 2023, which aims to lower the tariff rates for EVs and their components for the first five years.

However, this has received mixed reactions as it excluded electric motorcycles in the tax breaks, while the motorcycles comprise the majority of the country's transport mix with around eight million registered units to the Land Transportation Office.

Prominent stakeholders and think tanks are also vying for the inclusion of e-motorcycles in the tax breaks noting that the biggest number of motorists should not be excluded.

The electrification of transport is also part of the Philippine government's plan to hit its target to lower carbon emissions and comply with the Paris agreement to keep global warming below 2 degrees celsius.

Several landmark bills have also been passed to support this with the Republic Act 11697 or the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act at its forefront.

<h1>Toyota Philippines calls for inclusive tax incentives on electric vehicles</h1>MANILA, Philippines – Toyota Philippines is prodding the government to provide an inclusive tax incentives to electric vehicles (EVs) to promote the electrification of the automotive industry and help mitigate the impact of climate change.In an interview with Sunshine Cabrera, public relations head of Toyota PH, during last week’s 2023 International Ecotourism Travel Mart in Silang, Cavite, the carmaker representative said that incentives are important to sway Filipinos into shifting to EVs."But siguro, one of the ways of thinking ng customers kasi ngayon siyempre, 'pag electrified or hybrid, medyo mahal than regular," Cabrera said explaining the need for inclusive incentives to help the country move forward to using new technologies.Toyota Philippines has yet to release a fully electric vehicle line in the country as it gears toward hybrid vehicles, noting the lack of infrastructure in the country."I think that would help not just the automotive industry but also other industries — kung motorcycle man — because it will also help promote the electrification of their products," Cabrera said.Malacanang in January released Executive Order No. 12 series of 2023, which aims to lower the tariff rates for EVs and their components for the first five years.However, this has received mixed reactions as it excluded electric motorcycles in the tax breaks, while the motorcycles comprise the majority of the country's transport mix with around eight million registered units to the Land Transportation Office.Prominent stakeholders and think tanks are also vying for the inclusion of e-motorcycles in the tax breaks noting that the biggest number of motorists should not be excluded.The electrification of transport is also part of the Philippine government's plan to hit its target to lower carbon emissions and comply with the Paris agreement to keep global warming below 2 degrees celsius.Several landmark bills have also been passed to support this with the Republic Act 11697 or the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act at its forefront.