Tiny Titan: VinFast’s VF 3 tops Philippine battery-electric vehicle sales
BUYERS of the VinFast VF 3 can benefit from battery subscription and free charging programs that help reduce ownership costs.
Photograph courtesy of VinFast
VinFast’s compact VF 3 has become the best-selling battery-electric vehicle (BEV) model in the Philippines after recording 2,906 units sold during the first eight months of 2026.
The figure, based on a report from the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines Inc. (CAMPI), puts the Vietnamese automaker’s smallest electric SUV ahead of other BEV models in the local market from January to August.
Nicknamed the “Tiny Titan,” the VF 3 has attracted Filipino motorists who want an affordable entry into electric vehicle ownership. Its compact size has also made it an option for buyers who prefer a smaller vehicle for everyday use.
VinFast reported that demand for the VF 3 was already strong before the recent increases in fuel prices. Interest grew further as fluctuations in global oil prices affected local pump prices and prompted more motorists to consider electric alternatives.
The company also credits its ownership programs for helping customers make the switch from gasoline-powered vehicles.
Among these is VinFast’s Battery Subscription Policy, which reduces the initial cost of purchasing an electric vehicle. The company also offers a Residual Value Guarantee Program that seeks to protect the vehicle’s value over time.
Another factor is VinFast’s free charging program, which runs until 31 March 2029. The offer gives qualified owners access to free charging through the company’s charging network during the promotional period.
Together, these programs address some of the financial concerns that buyers may have when considering an electric vehicle, particularly the purchase price and long-term ownership costs.
VinFast Philippines chief executive officer Antonio “Toti” Zara III welcomed the VF 3’s sales performance and thanked Filipino customers for their support.
“We are deeply grateful and incredibly proud of the warm reception that VF 3 received in the Philippines. Achieving the number one spot is a milestone that demonstrates Filipino drivers’ readiness to embrace electric mobility when backed by an ecosystem that supports their entire journey,” Zara said.
He described the model’s position at the top of the BEV sales rankings as an important achievement for the brand. He also said the company would continue to develop its ownership programs to make electric vehicles more accessible to local buyers.
The VF 3’s sales performance comes as VinFast expands its presence in the Philippines. The company has been opening more dealerships and developing its aftersales network to serve a larger number of customers.
VinFast plans to widen its vehicle lineup while continuing its battery subscription and residual value guarantee programs. These initiatives are intended to address concerns about the cost of owning an EV and the availability of support after purchase.
The VF 3 has given the company an early sales advantage in the local BEV market this year. Its performance also shows that smaller electric vehicles can attract buyers in a market where gasoline-powered models continue to account for most vehicle sales.