VinFast, the newest electric vehicle manufacturer in India, has officially patented the design of its second-generation VF 8 electric SUV in the country. The move follows the global debut of the updated model and signals either stronger intellectual property protection or a potential launch plan in the Indian market. If introduced locally, the VF 8 would sit above the VF 7 as VinFast's flagship SUV.
The 2026 VF 8 marks VinFast's first second-generation model in its lineup, with the rest of its portfolio still based on first-generation designs. Through this update, the brand is showcasing its evolving design language and interior philosophy.
The most noticeable changes come in the exterior design. The new VF 8 features a more modern and sporty appearance, with a striking front fascia, full-width wing-shaped LED daytime running lights, and the VinFast logo centred between them. A large gloss-black grille adds to the bold look.
At the rear, a large black applique connects the LED taillights, along with a prominent V insignia. Other notable elements include 19-inch aero wheels, semi-flush door handles, and chrome accents along the window line.
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Dimensionally, the new VF 8 measures 4,701 mm in length, 1,872 mm in width, and 1,670 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,840 mm and ground clearance of 170 mm. Compared to its predecessor, it is 49 mm shorter in length, 62 mm narrower, and has a wheelbase reduced by 110 mm. However, height has increased by 3 mm and ground clearance by 8 mm.
The interior has undergone a thorough redesign. The infotainment screen is now a 12.9-inch unit positioned centrally, though the speaker count has been reduced. New additions include a TFT driver's instrument cluster and a redesigned steering wheel, while the gear selector remains on the steering column. Features include ADAS, dual-zone climate control, driver's seat memory function, and 360-degree cameras.
Under the hood, the second-generation VF 8 comes with a smaller 60.13 kWh battery pack, promising a range of 500 km. This is a reduction from the previous model's 87.7 kWh battery and 562 km range. The all-wheel-drive option is also unavailable in the new version. However, the front-wheel-drive setup now produces 228 bhp and 330 Nm, an increase of 18 bhp and 20 Nm over the earlier model.