The quiet hustler
VF 5 is a practical daily car with potential business opportunities
Six days driving the fully electric VinFast VF 5 around Metro Manila made me appreciate the advantages of its compact size, particularly when traffic is heavy and parking lots are limited.
Its steering was light, and the good turning radius made it easy to maneuver.
Acceleration was smooth, although the VF 5 does not deliver the shove I have felt in larger, more powerful electric vehicles. I wasn't expecting racing car acceleration from a compact crossover anyway, and it picked up speed comfortably enough for my usual city driving.
The brake pedal required a slightly deeper press than I was used to, but I quickly got accustomed to it just as I would with any other car.
Spending time behind the wheel, I appreciated the cabin, where the seats provided a comfortable driving position and a good view of the road. I had no trouble with headroom, and the air-conditioning kept the cabin cool, while the infotainment screen was easy to reach and use.
There's seating for five and 260 liters of luggage space, which increases to 900 liters when the rear seats are folded.
The VF 5 also has a rotary gear selector, but VinFast has kept a conventional handbrake lever, a combination I rather liked.
REAR seating accommodates three passengers, giving the VF 5 room for five occupants including the driver.
LUGGAGE space measures 260 liters and expands to 900 liters when the rear seats are folded.
ROTARY gear selector sits on the center console, while the digital displays and infotainment screen are positioned within easy view and reach of the driver.
VinFast quotes a driving range of 326 kilometers under the NEDC test cycle and says a compatible fast charger can take the battery from 10 to 70 percent in about 33 minutes. During my six days of driving around Metro Manila, I didn't need to recharge the car.
If you're keen on earning extra income through ride-hailing, the VF 5 is worth looking into. Taking bookings during your free hours could bring in additional income, while running on electricity instead of gasoline could help keep expenses down.
If you spend several hours a day driving, you'll also appreciate the lower maintenance costs. The VF 5 doesn't need engine oil changes or spark plugs, but tires and brakes still need maintenance.
VinFast also has a battery subscription option, while owners can enjoy free charging at authorized V-Green stations until 31 March 2029. That's one less expense to worry about, particularly if you're using the VF 5 for ride-hailing or driving every day.
You don't necessarily have to become a ride-hailing driver to benefit financially. Using the VF 5 as a personal car could already save you money on gasoline and maintenance, which you could put aside as capital to open a small shop or start a sideline that is just as attractive as earning directly from the vehicle.
After six days behind the wheel, I found it comfortable and easy to drive around Metro Manila.
The VF 5 could be your daily ride and help you save or earn money, all while barely making a sound.