Bowling Green Welcomes New VinFast Electric Vehicle Dealership
Bowling Green is buzzing with excitement as the city welcomes its very first VinFast electric vehicle dealership. Located at 2201 Scottsville Road, this new dealership is part of the growing trend towards electric vehicles (EVs) and aims to make a mark in the local car market.
A New Beginning with VinFast
Opening just last month, VinFast of Bowling Green is making its debut in the former Mitsubishi dealership building. This dealership is not just any ordinary car seller; it’s part of an international brand from Vietnam, aiming to compete with major players in the U.S. EV landscape like Tesla. This new location is one of only 18 VinFast retailers across the United States, making it a significant addition to the region.
High Hopes for Electric Vehicles
Tim Faulkner, the general sales manager at Gary Force Honda, which owns the dealership, highlighted that this venture is about expanding options for local car buyers. “We’re just trying to add another product,” he expressed, acknowledging the risks involved but feeling optimistic that getting in early with electric vehicles will be worth it in the long run.
VinFast was founded in 2017 and has been steadily growing, with plans underway for a manufacturing plant in North Carolina. The company has made strides in vehicle deliveries, with 12,058 vehicles handed over to customers in the second quarter of this year alone, marking a steady 26% increase from the same period last year. They are targeting about 80,000 electric vehicle deliveries in 2024, a massive leap from the 34,855 delivered in 2023.
Exciting Choices for Consumers
At VinFast of Bowling Green, customers can currently find the VF8 model sedan, which boasts an impressive full-charge range of around 265 miles and a price tag of about $50,000. Moreover, this model qualifies for a $7,500 federal tax credit, making it an attractive option for potential buyers looking to switch to electric.
In the coming months, the dealership is expected to expand its inventory. Faulkner shared that they will be introducing more models, including a smaller VF3 model projected to be priced around $20,000 when it launches next year. “So far we’ve seen a lot of interest in the cars,” he added, pointing out the advantages of owning a vehicle that never requires gas.
A Focus on Sustainability
The push for sustainable and electric vehicles is more urgent than ever, as President Tim Kanaly from Gary Force Honda believes that every manufacturer will eventually make the transition to EVs. “Technology is moving so much faster now in this business,” Kanaly noted, emphasizing that VinFast’s variety—from e-bikes to buses—offers great choices for consumers.
As part of the dealership’s efforts to cater to the electric vehicle market, they have set up four EV charging stations on-site, ensuring that owners have access to necessary charging facilities. Right now, the lot may have only a handful of cars, but both Kanaly and Faulkner expect that to change rapidly as more consumers consider electric vehicles for their everyday use.
Looking Ahead
The establishment of VinFast of Bowling Green is not just about selling cars; it’s about promoting a sustainable future and changing the way residents think about transportation. With a focus on electric vehicles and a commitment to keeping up with rapid technological advancements, Bowling Green residents will have another option to consider as they navigate the roads ahead.
Weather Update
As the new dealership opens its doors, Bowling Green residents can enjoy the warm weather. Today’s forecast shows intervals of clouds and sunshine, with temperatures reaching a high of 92°F and lows near 70°F. Gentle winds from the west-southwest will keep things comfortable.
With the combination of a growing electric vehicle market and favorable weather, it’s a great time for Bowling Green residents to explore their new local dealership and see what the future of driving might look like.
