VinFast announces new dealership contracts in Germany & France
According to Vinfast, this is “significant milestone in VinFasts strategy to accelerate its sales model through dealerships globally, while reaffirming the Companys strong commitment to driving the green transition in Europe,” as it wrote in a press release. In fact, it is another step in a turbulent week for the company in Europe.
Last Friday, it was reported that all VinFast’s European locations (showrooms and service centres) would be closed on 9 May. On 2 May, employees were informed that VinFast would be discontinuing its previous direct sales approach and switching to traditional dealer sales. As a result, 90 per cent of staff have been laid off, and the remaining employees will be placed with the new retail partners.
In Germany, Schachtschneider Automobile will open three authorised VinFast showrooms in Germany. VinFast had previously signed a cooperation agreement with Autohaus Hübsch and opened two showrooms. According to the company, the two current European models VF6 and VF8 will be on display there and offered for test drives. Both models are purely electric SUVs, the VF 6 is in the B-segment, the VF 8 in the D-segment. The Schachtschneider and Hübsch locations will also provide customers with “access to genuine after-sales service, warranty, and parts.”
Only one showroom in France for the time being
“We are proud to partner with VinFast, standing alongside this Vietnamese brand in driving the global green revolution. With a strong belief in the potential of electric vehicles and VinFasts prospects in the European market, we are committed to contributing value to achieve mutually beneficial collaboration, delivering leading products and services to consumers,” said Renzo Schachtschneider, Managing Director and owner of Schachtschneider Automobile.
In France, Astrada Simva has been signed up as an authorised dealer. Initially, however, only a showroom is mentioned there, which the new partner will operate in Aix-en-Provence – the location will open in June, according to the announcement. “We are proud to collaborate with VinFast, an innovative and fast-growing EV brand. Bringing the VF 6 and VF 8 models to Aix-en-Provence presents a great opportunity to diversify our offerings and give our customers exciting new choices,” added Chris Durand, Managing Director of Astrada Simva. “The arrival of stylish, quiet, and emission-free vehicles will enhance life in a region that is celebrated for its harmonious blend of tradition and modernity.”
Plans for further showrooms or additional dealers in France are not mentioned in VinFast’s press release. The company only states in general terms that it is “committed to growing its dealer and distributor network across France, Germany, and the Netherlands, and to expanding in other European markets, while simultaneously expanding its range of smart electric vehicles, reinforcing its long-term commitment to European consumers.” However, specific targets for the individual markets are not mentioned.
VinFast wants to offer its new dealers “maximum support” with in-depth personnel training and provide employees with “robust product knowledge and maintenance/repair procedures.” In addition, VinFast works with after-sales service providers and uses 22 specialised technical centres across Europe, including eight in Germany, twelve in France and two in the Netherlands. Customers can also use authorised service workshops – such as ATU in Germany, Norauto in France and LKQ in the Netherlands – in addition to the dealership partners’ facilities.
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