Vietnam's Plug-in Hybrid Market Sees Rise of Chinese Brands

Vietnam's automotive market currently offers a limited selection of plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs), with Chinese brands dominating the segment. While there is a diverse range of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and mild/self-charging hybrids (MHEVs/HEVs), PHEVs are seeing a significant influx of models from Chinese manufacturers. Key PHEV models available to consumers in Vietnam include the BYD Sealion 6, Seal 5, and M9; Lynk & Co's 08 and 900; Geely's EX5 EM-i; and Jaecoo's J7 SHS-P. These vehicles span various segments, from affordable compact SUVs to luxury MPVs and full-size SUVs. BYD, which entered the Vietnamese market in 2024, initially focused on BEVs but has since introduced PHEV models starting in 2025. The Sealion 6 combines a 1.5L engine with an electric motor, offering an electric-only range of approximately 100 km and a combined fuel consumption of 1.1 liters/100 km. The more premium M9 features a larger battery, extending its pure electric range to up to 170 km. Lynk & Co is also active in the SUV segment with the 08, equipped with a 1.5L turbocharged engine and two electric motors, boasting a 200 km pure electric range. Their flagship SUV, the 900, features a 2.0L turbocharged engine and dual motors, delivering a total output of 708 horsepower and a 170 km pure electric range. Geely's EX5 EM-i and Jaecoo's J7 SHS-P further enhance competition in the C-segment SUV category with their PHEV offerings. These Chinese PHEV brands are attracting consumer interest with their competitive pricing, substantial electric-only driving ranges, and impressive fuel efficiency. While Korean brands like Kia previously offered PHEVs, their latest models have seen these variants removed, indicating shifts in the market. Although the Vietnamese government is promoting EV adoption, PHEVs are likely to remain an attractive option for consumers in the near term, considering factors such as charging infrastructure development. Source: VnExpress