VinFast acquires licence to test self-driving electric vehicles in California

A computer-rendered image of VinFast VF33, an SUV in segment E, is expected to reach US consumers in Q2/2022. (Photo VinFast)

Hanoi - VinFast has just become the 57th automaker to receive a licence to test self-driving electric vehicles in California, the US.

The company said its three SUV models VF31, VF32 and VF33 met the highest global safety standards including five-star ratings from the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the European New Car Assessment Programme.

VinFast has just become the 57th automaker to receive a licence to test self-driving electric vehicles in California, the US.

As required in the US, electric vehicles with autonomous technology are required to carry out testing procedures and secure an Autonomous Test Vehicle Permit (ATVP) by the California Vehicle Administration.

Automakers, including big names such as Apple, Tesla, BMW, and Volkswagen according to California's Department of Motor Vehicles website, have also secured their licences to test run their vehicles in the Golden State, the world's largest technology and innovation hub.

All three of the company's models are to be equipped with level 2-3 autonomous features, which include 30 smart features divided into seven groups: intelligent steering assist system, lane control system, active journey control system, multi-point collision warning system, comprehensive collision mitigation system, intelligent automated parking system and driver monitoring system.

Models VF32 and VF33 will be sold in the US, Canada and Europe markets from 2022. The launch of high-tech electric vehicles, including electric scooters, electric buses and personal electric cars, is part of VinFast's pre-defined roadmap since entering the automotive market three years ago.

Customers can start ordering the cars in May this year in Vietnam and in November in the US, Canada and the EU.

In Vietnam, Vietnamese automakers also started to install electric vehicle charging stations at commercial centres at Vinhomes Ocean Park, Vincom Long Bien in Hanoi to serve the first electric cars produced, expected to be available this year.

VinFast sold 31,500 cars in Vietnam last year, with its VinFast sedan and SUV models among the bestsellers in their respective segments.