In early June, just 8 days after opening pre-orders for the new generation VF 8, VinFast announced it had received nearly 12,800 orders, with initial deliveries expected by late July. This model marks a strategic shift for the Vietnamese automaker in the electric vehicle sector and is the first in its product line to receive comprehensive upgrades in design, technology, and features.

Design of the new generation VinFast VF 8. *Photo: VinFast*

Integrated thermal management (ITM) system

According to VinFast, the integrated thermal management (ITM) system in the new generation VF 8 was independently researched and developed by the company, from concept to hardware and software, and is patented.

This system is likened to the vehicle's thermal management 'heart and brain', coordinating temperatures for the cabin, battery, and motor. This optimizes operational efficiency, durability, and energy savings. The system features a modular architecture, allowing customization for different markets and climate conditions.

In tropical countries like Vietnam, the system optimizes cooling performance for hot, humid weather, while also utilizing excess heat from the motor for heating when needed. For colder regions, ITM integrates a heat pump to provide heating and reduce energy consumption during winter. VinFast states that the hardware design has upgraded performance and power, with improved aerodynamics and reduced vibration and noise, aiming for a smoother driving experience than the previous version.

ITM's integrated design also optimizes engine compartment space and can be shared across multiple future vehicle lines.

The interior of the new generation VF 8 features a minimalist design. *Photo: VinFast*

Adaptive FSD suspension system

With the launch of the new generation VF 8, VinFast aimed to develop a new suspension system to enhance the driving and user experience. This process took about 12 months, involving multiple stages of calculation, simulation, testing, and fine-tuning.

VinFast engineers optimized each suspension point and operating parameter during the computer-aided design phase, establishing a balanced foundation for driving feel, stability, and comfort. The system then underwent road testing on prototype vehicles, including at testing centers in icy and slippery conditions.

Weight reduction

For the new generation VF 8, weight reduction was a key engineering objective from the development stage. According to VinFast, each module underwent optimization to balance performance, durability, safety, and operational quality.

VinFast's engineering team reviewed and calculated numerous core components, including the body structure, chassis, and battery system, to ensure optimized weight without compromising structural rigidity. A key development goal for the new generation VF 8 is to achieve a 5-star NCAP rating.

Following testing, VinFast's research indicates that the BIW (body-in-white) module saw a 25% weight reduction, the chassis a 28% reduction, and the battery a 22% reduction compared to the previous version. Overall, the vehicle's weight was reduced by approximately 600 kg.

Rear seating space in the new generation VF 8. *Photo: VinFast*

Battery performance

To achieve efficient operation, VinFast simultaneously optimized multiple layers of technology, from the motor, battery, and electrical-electronic architecture to the energy management system. The company states that each component was reviewed, fine-tuned, and upgraded to reduce consumption, optimize space, and decrease weight.

Central to this process is the independently developed "6-in-1" motor assembly. Instead of separate placement of numerous components, VinFast has deeply integrated complex elements like the charger, DC converter, and PDU into this single motor assembly. This approach optimizes weight, frees up vehicle layout space, and enhances thermal management efficiency and system reliability.

Regarding the battery system, the new generation VF 8 utilizes a new battery structure and technology, aiming for better heat dissipation, more effective force dispersion in collisions, and high heat resistance. The battery design increases contact area with the cooling system, preventing localized heat buildup and improving the battery pack's mechanical safety. VinFast also optimized the electrical-electronic architecture, in-vehicle management system, and infotainment platform, which uses advanced, more energy-efficient chips.

Quang Anh