Electric Vehicles – Page 4 – Ewing VinFast of Plano

December 20, 2024December 18, 2024

Living With The VF8 For A Week

The 2024 VinFast VF8 has been making waves with technology reviewers lately, mainly because of its advanced safety and entertainment features. In a recent video by YouTube tech vlogger Andres Vidoza, the VF8 was front and center as the vehicle the content creator drove for an entire week to give his opinion and feedback. So, what did he think after a full seven days of living with a VinFast?

A Proper YouTube Test

The first thing that the YouTuber noticed was the quality and shade of VinFast Blue, the particular color of the VF8 he tested. He found the headlights and rear taillight bar very unique, the way they meet in the middle to match the VinFast V logo, “I think the nicest angle this car has to offer is the rear 3/4s. Every time I park this and look back, for an EV, I liked what I saw. It’s really nice, I personally like the design of the end of the taillight.”

Trim Levels and Performance

For 2024, the VinFast VF8 is available to customers in two trim levels, Eco and the Plus. With both models, the VF8 will get an 87.7 kWh dual-motor battery pack with standard all-wheel drive, which are two things that are typically optional in most EVs. The Eco trim has 349 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque that can get owners from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.9 seconds. Stepping up to the Plus trim gives buyers 402 horsepower and 457 lb-ft of torque and will reach 60 mph in less than 5.5 seconds.

Subtle Styling and Usability

When it came to how the VF8 integrates all of the cameras and sensors, Mr. Vidoza felt that the VinFast design language of discrete and subtle made him like the design that much more. He also remarked on how nice it was that the company even found a way to hide the rear windscreen wiper, something most automakers don’t bother to do.

No Pollution

As someone who isn’t used to an electric vehicle, Andres found it interesting that the VF8 will either turn off by itself or ask if you’d like to put the car into camp mode. His understanding of gas-powered cars made it all the more amazing that he wasn’t polluting while sitting idle or even wasting any of the vehicle’s energy.

Faster Than VinFast Says?

When it came time to drive the VF8, Andres really enjoyed the on-demand power. He said that on the highway, the amount of power and torque the VinFast has allows it to get up to speed and pass people more easily. While VinFast says the VF8 Plus gets to 60 mph in around 5.5 seconds, Andres believes it’s faster, saying, “This doesn’t feel like a 0-60 in 5 second car, absolutely not. This car makes you feel like you can go anywhere right past people.” He also found that the adaptive cruise control system was perfect and easy to use while allowing for proper hands-free driving on the highway.

What Was the Final Verdict?

So, what did Andres Vidoza think after a full week of driving a 2024 VinFast VF8 like it was his? “But what I like the most is that the company [VinFast] seems to listen and takes criticism really well … The interior does feel solid. The car overall feels roomy. The power sunroof is nice, and having a physical powered shade is nicer. Knowing that this has an unlimited mileage battery warranty for 10 years makes me feel even better.”

Why Choose Ewing VinFast of Plano

At Ewing VinFast of Plano, we have the best prices on dozens of new VinFast EVs and used cars. Our well-educated sales staff and finance department will happily assist you with your EV questions and needs. Our fantastic service department will ensure your vehicle stays in the best condition.

We look forward to serving you.

December 15, 2024December 18, 2024

Alternative Charging Apps

VinFast has worked hard to provide customers with an excellent mobile app that allows owners to schedule and monitor vehicle maintenance, approve vehicle repairs, check the charging status of their VF8 or VF9, and plan a trip with scheduled stops for charging, among other useful features. One feature that seems to elude most manufacturers of other electric vehicles is the ability to use just one app to pay for charging at any station in America. However, VinFast has easily figured this out and provided it to customers in the VinFast mobile app.

The VinFast Mobile App

While the VinFast mobile app is a great all-in-one accompaniment to your VinFast, there are good reasons to ensure that you have other charging apps downloaded just in case. For instance, there could be a network or server outage where the VinFast app has an issue when paying at the pump. While this is unlikely, it is nice to have a backup plan just in case. Below are some other apps that can handle finding charging stations and payment with various pros and cons.

Some of the Different Charging Companies

Each charging station company, such as Electrify America, EVgo, ChargePoint, etc., all have their own apps that may even offer discounts if you choose to pay for a low monthly membership to use the chargers. This could be helpful if you live, work, or run a lot of errands near one of the major charger brand stations.

PlugShare Mobile App

One app that all EV owners should download and utilize is PlugShare, which not only shows you the locations of all charging stations, including Tesla Superchargers, but also provides user data with reviews and photos of each station to help you avoid areas that are always busy, have inoperable chargers, and the like. On both iOS and Google, the app has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5. The app also allows you to connect your credit card information to pay at any station quickly and easily. As one of the five-star reviews says, “Last month’s round trip between east coast and Kansas was our first … Being able to map out entire 1500 mile northern and southern routes, planning for adequate charging and our overnight stops was pretty easy and confidence building.” However, it’s not all wine and roses for PlugShare. As one reviewer said, “Used this for a trip from LA to San Fran. I’d say the best way to use plugshare is to open Google Maps first and figure out in which city you want to make a stop, then go in plugshare and search that city. The trip planner is a good idea but needs work.”

ChargePoint Mobile App

ChargePoint is the largest EV charging network in the world. In the United States alone, there are more than 30,000 stations with about 50,000 Level 2 and Level 3 DC fast chargers. The app reviews are good, averaging 4.5 out of 5 on iOS and Google devices. One reviewer says, “ChargePoint is a great service and they did a great job with this app—so much so that I bought a home EV charger from them. The app makes it pretty easy to find and monitor charging stations … The home charger integration works seamlessly allowing you to control charging times and even choose from multiple utility rates (or set manually) to track spending.” On the not-so-positive side, though, multiple users have complained that the app has been buggy due to recent updates with their personal home ChargePoint chargers.

EVgo Mobile App

Another large charging company, EVgo, has its own app that assists EV drivers in finding their respective chargers. The app has an average rating of 4.2 stars for iPhone users and 4.6 for Android users. While users seem to enjoy the app, they don’t like that the chargers seem unable to work without the app. Also, sometimes, the chargers themselves are down for maintenance issues, which the app does not seem to fully disclose when drivers are on their way to a station. It seems VinFast owners should probably steer clear of EVgo in general until the user experience improves.

Electrify America Mobile App

Electrify America is one of the largest networks that aims to try and give EV owners a good, non-Tesla Supercharger experience. While they have fallen short of that over the years, the company has dedicated hundreds of millions of dollars to updating and upgrading their charging system to make the chargers more reliable for owners. The app has a cumulative 4.7 stars on the Apple App Store and 4.6 on the Google Play Store. With over 4,000 Level 3 DC fast chargers across America, they offer drivers the ability to drive cross-country or from state to state without having to wait forever to charge their vehicle from 105 to 70 or 80%. The app allows you to track your charging status and will even notify you if you are waiting for a charger at a busy station. However, users complain that the app is confusing and convoluted. Some even say that the app will let you know that your vehicle is charging, and then minutes later, they say there’s a charging error, except the car is still charging. So, obviously, there are some kinks.

The VinFast App Seems to Reign Supreme

While it is important to check out the other EV charging apps to ensure you have all of the information you can get about stations and overall networks as you drive around, especially in unfamiliar areas, it seems that some of these apps lack usability. That’s why it’s essential to use the VinFast mobile app as the primary way to charge your vehicle at stations, along with the other apps as backups, just in case. Everyone must remember that EVs are still relatively new, and the charging networks, while not perfect, are getting better at a quicker rate than before. Although, patience is key.

Why Choose Ewing VinFast of Plano

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December 10, 2024December 18, 2024

VF9 vs Volvo EX90

Comparisons are important for customers to read. It’s easy to fall in love with one vehicle or another by scrolling through the brand’s model page highlights. However, when you start taking notes on each vehicle you’re interested in, you begin to question the value of these vehicles, especially modern electric cars. This week, we are taking a look at the brand-new Volvo EX90 all-electric luxury SUV, and we are comparing it to what is definitely one of the best electric SUVs just arriving at Ewing VinFast of Plano, the VF9.

Meet The EX90

The Volvo EX90 is the first-ever flagship electric SUV from the Swedish car manufacturer. While it rides on the same platform as their gas-powered flagship, the XC90, the EX90 is 1.6 inches wider and 3.3 inches longer. The EPA estimates that this new Volvo electric SUV has between 300 and 310 miles of range from a 107 kWh battery pack. There are two trim levels offered, the Plus and Ultra. Both models can be had with the Twin Motor all-wheel drive powertrain that offers 402 horsepower and 568 lb-ft of torque, or the Twin Motor Performance can be optioned to deliver 510 horsepower and 671 torque. Volvo says each model will hit 60 mph in 5.7 and 4.7 seconds, respectively. This seems promising when compared to the VinFast VF9. Let’s see if it stays that way.

I’m Sorry, It Costs How Much?!

The brand-new EX90 starts from $81,290 for the Plus model and $85,640 for the Ultra trim level. The Twin Motor Performance package adds an extra $5,000 to either trim level. So, before you start adding any options whatsoever, you’re either knocking on the door of $90 grand, or you’re already over it with the Ultra trim with Performance package. That’s a lot of money for any vehicle in this day and age, but especially one that has yet to prove itself to customers. It was looking good until we got to the price…

The VF9 Does More for Less

Of all the comparisons we have made so far, the Volvo is the only other company with two trim levels, just like the VF9, which comes in either Eco or Plus. Eco models will give buyers a healthy 330-mile driving range, which is quite a bit more than the 300-310 that Volvo is advertising. Plus models offer 291 miles, which maintains its competitiveness against most gas and electric-powered three-row SUVs on the market. Both models come standard with all-wheel drive, dual motors, and a 123 kWh battery pack that provides 402 horsepower and 457 lb-ft of torque. This gives the VinFast plenty of oomph, with a claimed 0-60 of roughly 6.5 seconds. The VF9 comes standard with a Head-Up Display (HUD), something most other vehicles can’t attest to, so drivers never have to take their eyes off the road to see navigation information, range, music, and more.

Sony RIDEVU Is Amazing

The 2025 VF9 offers drivers and passengers a 15.6-inch infotainment touchscreen display that comes standard with Sony RIDEVU. RIDEVU allows passengers in the VF9 to watch 2,000 different Sony-owned movies and TV shows either on the main infotainment screen when the vehicle is in park or on any device that is on the in-car WiFi. There are six standard USB-A ports with one 90-watt USB-C port, which means two per row. When captain’s chairs are optioned, passengers will find two extra USB-A ports in the center console.

There’s Nothing Like Great Safety

When it comes to safety, every VinFast comes standard with the most modern and advanced set of safety features, which includes Traffic Jam Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, Highway Driving Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Centering Assist, Blind Spot Detection, Automatic Emergency Braking, Intelligent Speed Recognition, Traffic Sign Recognition, Forward Collision Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Blind Spot Detection, Door Opening Warning, Front Automatic Emergency Braking, Emergency Lane Keep Assist, Front Parking Assist, Rear Parking Assist, backup camera, Automatic High Beam, and a 360-degree Surround View Camera system. All VinFast VF9 models feature 11 airbags as standard safety equipment.

An Easy Decision

It seems this one is kind of easy, isn’t it? Both the EX90 and the VF9 are the latest flagship EVs for their respective brands. However, when you type into Google “Volvo EX90 warranty,” the first thing that comes up is that the Volvo has a 4-year, 50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and an 8-year, 100,000-mile battery warranty. The second thing is a Reddit post titled, “Anyone else put off by Volvo’s poor battery warranty?” The VF9 has a 10-year, 125,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, a 10-year, unlimited-mile battery warranty, and no disappointed Reddit posts. Once again, the VinFast takes the crown.

Why You Should Choose Ewing VinFast

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December 5, 2024December 18, 2024

Some Things to Consider When Replacing Tires on Your VinFast

Tires are tires… they’re all the same, right? Very wrong. Sports cars should use tires specific to performance driving, while SUVs and trucks should use tires that can handle the loads of towing and hauling. An electric vehicle should utilize the tires that come with the vehicle. Why? Because the automaker, such as VinFast, has worked with tire companies to engineer tires that are best for road noise, ride quality, longevity, heavy loads, and efficiency.

Noise, Vibration, Harshness

Electric cars, like the VinFast VF8, have less overall harsh noises when driving than a standard gas-powered car. Since there is no engine, exhaust, etc., an EV is quieter. However, tires inherently invite harsh sounds into the cabin through vibrations. The reason being that they try to mellow out the driving surface for optimal comfort and performance. Because an EV is quiet, tire manufacturers have had to engineer tires that do not emit as many harsh tones into the vehicle’s cabin through new advancements in tire tech called Noise Reduction Technology. This typically involves tire companies insulating the tire so that it’s less hollow and/or different tread patterns, therefore reducing vibrations.

Should You Buy UHP Tires?

When looking for new tires for your VinFast, be careful of performance-oriented EV tires. While some electric vehicles benefit greatly from having tires that are called Ultra-High Performance (UHP), many EVs simply don’t need them, as they will destroy the efficiency of your car through extra rolling resistance. Most hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and non-performance-oriented EVs rely heavily on low-rolling-resistance tires to maximize the vehicle’s fuel mileage or electric range.

Always Look at the Load Rating

One thing to also keep in mind as you are looking for tires is that EVs are typically about 10% heavier than a gas-powered car, meaning that they can wear through tires more quickly. According to some data, an EV can go through tires up to 20% faster than a standard car, which is why you want to make sure you are buying the right tires for your car’s load rating. New High Load (HL) tires are becoming part of the new standard tires for certain EVs in order to handle the extra overall vehicle load, meaning its curb weight plus the amount of weight it can carry inside the vehicle, i.e., passengers, luggage, etc. The VF8 has a tire load index of 103, which means that each tire when filled to its max psi, can carry 1,929 lbs per tire. Time that by four, and you have tires that can handle 7,716 lbs. The VF8 weighs about 5,800 lbs, which means it can carry an extra 1,916 lbs worth of people and stuff. But be careful because that adds up quickly.

Which Tires Are Best for Your VinFast?

Ultimately, it is best to stick with the same tires you already have on your VinFast when looking for a new set of tires. That is unless you’re willing to spend a bunch of money going through different sets of tires every few months to know which ones you prefer.

Why You Should Choose Ewing VinFast

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November 20, 2024November 25, 2024

VF8 vs VF9: Which Is Best for You?

VinFast is quickly making strides to provide electric vehicles for enthusiasts and first-time EV customers with two excellent options for those looking for a variety of SUV sizes. The VF8 is the smaller yet more cost-conscious vehicle in the range, while the VF9 is a larger vehicle that not only comfortably seats up to eight people but also offers a bit more for the extra money you’re spending. Let’s take a closer look at the numbers to see which one is truly the best fit for you.

The VF9

As mentioned before, the VF9 Eco is an 8-passenger EV SUV. However, it does have the option to seat seven when buying the top-of-the-line Plus trim level. Plus models feature second-row captain’s chairs for extra comfort for rear passengers. VinFast says that Eco models will give owners 330 miles of driving range, and the Plus model offers 291 miles. With such a good range, the VF9 is able to compete well against both gas and electric SUVs alike. Both models come standard with dual motors, a 123-kWh battery, and all-wheel drive with 402 horsepower and 457 lb-ft of torque.

The VF8

VF8 is also available in just two trims to keep the confusion and guessing game out of buying your VinFast. Eco trim levels have a base price of $47,325, and the Plus trim starts from $51,800. Both trims have dual motors with 87.7-kWh batteries that give Eco models 349 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, and 402 horsepower and 457 lb-ft of torque for the Plus trims. This is a very healthy amount of power and torque, giving customers plenty of get-up-and-go while not having so much horsepower that it wastes battery usage. VinFast says the VF8 can get from 0-60 mph in just 5.9 seconds with the Eco and 5.5 in the Plus. The EPA says drivers can expect 264 miles for Eco models and 243 miles for Plus models between charges.

Charging Times for Both Vehicles

When it comes to charging times, both offer fast charging, whether at home or on the go. For owners charging at a Level 3 DC fast charger, the VF8 will go from 10% to 70% charge in just 31 minutes, while the VF9 takes a tad longer at 35 minutes for the same percentage.

The VinFast Home Charger

Most buyers will be charging their cars at home, and VinFast even offers its own charger that can be purchased for $599 and easily installed by a qualified professional. The charger features a max power of 12kW, or 240 volts and 50 amps. The VinFast charger gives owners the flexibility of using WiFi, Bluetooth, or Ethernet to connect to the charger and monitor the vehicle’s state of charge. Using the VinFast mobile app, the vehicle’s state of charge can be tracked easily from anywhere. As a Level 2 charger, the VinFast Home Charger is eight times faster than plugging the vehicle into a standard 120-volt wall outlet.

Interior Capacities

Both vehicles are good-sized crossover SUVs and have plenty of space for either a single household, people with pets, young families, or families that are bursting at the seams with kids and stuff. The 2024 VF8 features 13.2 cu-ft of space behind the second row of seats and 48.4 when they’re folded, and 2.7 cubes of space in the front trunk or frunk. Since the VF9 can seat up to eight people, it obviously has a bit more room and capacity. With the third row in place, customers will have 7.48 cu.ft. of trunk space and 32.7 cu.ft. with the third row folded.

Infotainment and One-of-a-Kind Entertainment

The VF8 and VF9 each offer customers a 15.6-inch infotainment touchscreen with a standard Head-Up Display (HUD). As you may have seen in our comparisons between the VF8 and other EVs on the market, the HUD seems to be an option that most automakers don’t seem to find important because only a couple of different vehicles even have a HUD as an option, with most not featuring the technology at all. Something else that other automakers can’t say their vehicle has is Sony RIDEVU. Sony Pictures Entertainment provides RIDEVU as a way of giving VinFast customers the ability to watch 2,000 different Sony-owned movies and TV shows either on the main 15.6-inch infotainment screen when the vehicle is in park, or on any device that is attached to the in-car WiFi system.

Leasing Specials and Warranties

No matter which vehicle is best for you, both offer good lease specials to entice new buyers. You can walk into Ewing VinFast of Plano right now and lease a VF8 Eco for just $199 per month for 36 months with $0 down and 10,000 miles per year, or for just $249 per month, you can get the top-of-the-line Plus trim. The Vietnamese electric car manufacturer is offering the VF9 to customers for just $529 per month with $2,000 down on a 24-month lease. Don’t forget that VinFast also offers the absolute best warranty for any EV or non-EV on the market, with a 10-year, 125,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a 10-year, unlimited-mile battery warranty.

Why Choose Ewing VinFast of Plano

We look forward to serving you.