Vinfast takes foothold in Victoria

Vietnamese car manufacturer Vinfast has opened its first Australian office, which is designed to expedite the company’s overseas growth and bolster its research capabilities. 

Its new office is based in Melbourne, near to Monash University – granting Vinfast access to a wide range of research facilities, as well as countless surrounding financial and economic businesses.

The new Vinfast Australia facility, which is called Automotive Technology Institute 2 (ATI 2), will focus on the development of both internal combustion models and electric vehicles.

It’s hoped that the new facility will help the fledgeling brand catch up with the rapidly changing automotive marketplace and further the brand’s global ambitions.

Vinfast says the presence of other auto  industry manufacturers in Melbourne further made the location appealing, as the city consequently has many of the required facilities.

GM Holden veteran Kevin Yardley will head up the new institute, which employs almost 100 engineers and specialists recruited from companies such as Toyota, Ford and GM.   

The company also recently agreed to purchase the GM Holden Proving Ground at Lang Lang in Victoria, furthering its expansion and capabilities. 

GM Holden interim chairman and managing director Kristian Aquilina said: “This deal hits a sweet spot of a fair sale value, a ready-made facility for Vinfast’s needs, ongoing employment for departing Holden employees and the preservation of amenity for the community.”

Vinfast, which was established in 2017, is a subsidiary of the larger and older Vietnamese conglomerate Vingroup. It currently offers a range of vehicles, including a luxury sedan and a V8-engined SUV.