VinFast Expands into Luxury Electric Cars with New Lac Hong Brand

Vietnamese manufacturer VinFast is making a bold entry into the ultra-luxury vehicle market. Despite facing significant challenges in establishing itself in the United States, the company remains undeterred and is intensifying its global ambitions with the launch of a new high-end brand, Lac Hong.

This new brand is part of a broader strategy to categorize VinFast's offerings into three distinct tiers, with Lac Hong occupying the highest level. The company has already introduced two flagship models: the Lac Hong 800S and Lac Hong 900S.

According to VinFast, these models are designed to rival some of the most prestigious luxury brands worldwide. The company asserts that these cars embody the culture and strength of Vietnam while offering quality comparable to renowned European luxury manufacturers. However, given VinFast's past performance, expectations may be tempered.

The Lac Hong 800S is a spacious SUV aimed at those desiring a powerful and assertive design, whereas the Lac Hong 900S is an elegant sedan that emphasizes sophistication and tradition. Both electric vehicles feature a robust three-motor system, providing all-wheel drive and delivering a combined output of 460 kW, or approximately 615 horsepower, ensuring these heavyweight luxury cars can accelerate swiftly.

Lac Hong 900S interior - source: VinFast

To ensure a smooth driving experience, VinFast is incorporating a "full active suspension system" for the first time. This innovative technology helps the vehicle maintain stability during turns and braking, preventing excessive leaning in corners or a nose dive under braking. The aim is to create a sensation of floating on a cloud for passengers, regardless of road conditions.

The interiors of the Lac Hong 800S and 900S boast premium materials, including soft Nappa leather upholstery and rare wood trim on the dashboard. Gold-plated accents enhance the luxurious feel. The 900S sedan showcases a prominent grille with vertical slats and a winged ornament on the hood, reminiscent of design elements found in a Rolls-Royce. VinFast clearly strives for these vehicles to exude opulence, but will it suffice?

Lac Hong 800S - source: VinFast

Technology is also a significant focus for the Lac Hong brand. Rear-seat passengers in the 900S can unwind in "zero-gravity" executive seats designed to evenly distribute body weight, creating a sensation of weightlessness. While experiencing a serene ride, passengers can enjoy movies on integrated screens. The vehicles also feature automatic electric doors that operate seamlessly and dual wireless chargers for smartphones.

The 800S is likely to attract more buyers than the sedan, as many consumers today prefer the extra space offered by SUVs. It shares the same mechanical platform as the 900S, benefiting from the same powerful motors and smooth suspension. However, it may forgo the divider wall between the front and back seats present in the sedan, which offers enhanced privacy for rear passengers.

VinFast has yet to disclose all details, including pricing and the vehicles' range on a single charge, as well as the battery charging speed. However, the company aims to commence sales of both models by 2027.

VinFast has a track record of rapidly launching new models, and all eyes will be on whether these luxury vehicles can truly compete with the finest in the industry. While skepticism may suggest an uphill battle for VinFast, it is certain that the company will find some customers. The real question remains: will it be enough to sustain its operations? Time will tell.

Via