In mid-may, Huong Giang from Hai Phong embarked on a solo 40-day journey, traversing hundreds of locations across the country in her VinFast VF 7.
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Huong Giang's VinFast VF 7 during her journey. Photo: Provided by subject |
Huong Giang shared her motivations and experiences from the extensive trip:
"I have always wanted to travel to the most remote areas and along routes many consider difficult. Specifically, I aimed to personally experience whether an electric vehicle could be truly safe and reliable for such a long journey. This was my primary goal when undertaking this trip with my VinFast VF 7."
Reflecting on the completion of her journey, Huong Giang described it as "safe" for both herself and the car.
"My journey spanned 40 days and covered nearly 8,000 km. In the past, I had taken many shorter trips with gasoline cars but never felt as well as I did this time. I believe it was thanks to the electric car's smooth and gentle operation, which provided a very relaxed experience."
During the final leg of her journey, Huong Giang drove continuously from Hue to Ha Noi, a distance exceeding 700 km, without feeling overly fatigued. She noted that she likely would not have maintained such good physical condition if she had driven a gasoline vehicle.
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The female owner of the VinFast VF 7 at a stop during her trip. Photo: Provided by subject |
The VinFast VF 7's features significantly aided Huong Giang throughout her travels. She particularly appreciated the high-level regenerative braking system, which automatically activated on downhill slopes.
"The car automatically maintained speed, similar to using a low gear in a gasoline car, so I barely had to use the brakes," she explained. "Secondly, the acceleration was almost instantaneous. When I saw a safe opening, I just had to press the accelerator, and the car immediately surged forward. This eliminated the need for extensive calculations often required when driving a gasoline vehicle."
Additionally, the VF 7 offered good sound insulation, even on various road surfaces, which directly contributed to driver comfort and focus. Huong Giang prepared thoroughly to ensure the car's safe operation. Despite living with an osteoarticular condition for over 20 years, she felt healthier after the trip than before she started.
Regarding charging difficulties, Huong Giang reported a surprisingly extensive charging infrastructure.
"Charging stations are truly ubiquitous now," she said. "I was even surprised to find a large charging station in the middle of a mountainous area, with 10 120 kW poles and one 250 kW pole, along a nearly 200 km stretch with no houses, few vehicles, and no phone signal."
She believes VinFast has made substantial investments in infrastructure to support users, an effort not all car manufacturers can achieve.
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The VinFast VF 7 accompanied its owner on the 40-day journey. Photo: Provided by subject |
Huong Giang, an avid traveler and electric vehicle enthusiast, is already planning her next adventures. "Honestly, as soon as I got home, I missed the roads I had just traveled," she admitted. Her next trip is planned for about one week, along the border region of Moc Chau and the Laos border. Following that, she intends to explore the Tay Bac region for 15-20 days.
Initially, choosing an electric vehicle for such a long journey might have seemed unconventional, but Huong Giang notes a shift in perception. "At first, yes, but now it's the opposite," she stated. "I believe the trend of cross-Vietnam electric vehicle travel has grown significantly in the past two years."
Beyond the improved infrastructure, another major motivation is the cost savings. Long-distance electric vehicle travel eliminates fuel costs, as charging is often free. This allows travelers to allocate more budget to food, accommodation, or other experiences along the way, encouraging more people like her to explore.
Quang Anh
