VinFast to Launch Electric Buses in India by August 2026: Talks Begin With Multiple States

Key Highlights

• VinFast electric buses to arrive in India by August 2026.

• Talks with five states to secure orders.

• Buses offer a 260 km range and a 281 kWh battery.

• Part of VinFast’s $2 billion India plan.

• Supported by government schemes like PM E-Drive.

Vietnamese EV maker VinFast is preparing to expand its India portfolio with the launch of electric buses by August 2026, marking a major step in its long-term commitment to the Indian market. This move will come after the company rolls out its electric two-wheelers and introduces its GSM ride-hailing service next year.

Electric Buses Coming by Mid-2026

VinFast Asia CEO Pham Sanh Chau confirmed that the company will bring its electric buses to India by August 2026.

He said electric buses will play a key role in shifting India’s public transport from diesel buses to clean, sustainable mobility.

Talks Underway With Several States

The company is currently in discussions with State Transport Undertakings (STUs) from:

• Maharashtra

• Tamil Nadu

• Uttar Pradesh

• Andhra Pradesh

• Telangana

These discussions aim to secure early orders for VinFast’s bus lineup.

Bus Range and Features

VinFast’s electric bus lineup includes models ranging from 6 meters to 12 meters.

These buses are:

• Already running in Vietnam

• Newly introduced in Europe

• Capable of up to 260 km range on one charge

• Powered by a 281 kWh battery

VinFast’s Growing Footprint in India

VinFast began selling its electric cars in India in September 2025, starting with the VF 6 and VF 7. The company already has around 26 dealerships and plans major expansion in 2026, including:

• Launch of electric two-wheelers in H2 2026

• Introduction of the GSM ride-hailing service by August 2026

Government Support Driving Demand

India’s shift toward electric buses is strongly backed by the government through:

• PM E-bus Sewa

• PM E-Drive Scheme

The PM E-Drive, launched in October 2024 with an outlay of ₹10,900 crore, includes ₹4,391 crore dedicated to promoting electric buses for urban transport. Electric bus penetration in India is expected to reach 20–30% by 2030.

Manufacturing Plans and Investment

While Chau did not confirm electric bus manufacturing in India yet, he said VinFast will aim for 100% localisation in the future. VinFast has already committed $2 billion (₹16,000 crore) in India, with $500 million invested to build its plant in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu. The facility currently produces 50,000 electric cars annually, expandable to 150,000 units.

Market Competition

Major players in India’s electric bus segment include:

• Ashok Leyland

• Switch Mobility

• Tata Motors

• Olectra Greentech

• PMI Mobility

• PMI Electro Mobility

• JBM Auto

Recently, CESL opened India’s largest electric bus tender for 10,900 buses under the PM E-Drive scheme.

Also Read: BatteryPool Raises ₹8 Crore to Scale Its Pay-as-You-Go EV Battery Platform

CMV360 Says

VinFast’s entry into India’s electric bus market marks a strong push toward cleaner public transport. With state discussions ongoing, a diverse bus lineup, and major investments already underway, the company aims to play a significant role in India’s EV transition. Supported by government schemes and rising demand, VinFast’s upcoming launches, ranging from e-buses to two-wheelers and ride-hailing services, position it as a major new player in India’s fast-growing EV ecosystem.