VinFast VF Wild mid-size electric pickup concept debuts at CES 2024

Electric vehicle upstart VinFast made a splash at the 2024 CES technology show in Las Vegas by revealing its latest creation - the VF Wild electric pickup concept.

After a series of SUVs VinFast is clearly considering a move into the electric pickup segment. That's bound to see an increase in popularity now that the Tesla Cubertruck finally started deliveries.

Designed in part by Australian firm Gomotiv, the VF Wild concept includes reverse-hinged rear doors, flat-folding second-row seats, and a unique rectangular steering wheel, though it remains to be seen if these features will make it to a production version.

One distinctive feature of the VF Wild is its midgate design, which allows the bed to open into the cabin, creating additional cargo space. While specifics about the powertrain are lacking, we can speculate that a dual-motor setup for all-wheel drive and a range of at least 250 miles should be expected.

VinFast's recently expansion in the US market suggests that the VF Wild might not remain a concept for long. Competing with established players like the Rivian R1T and the upcoming Fisker Alaska, which share a similar midgate design, VinFast will need to bring a competitive edge to the table. Larger electric pickups like the Ford F-150 Lightning, the Chevrolet Silverado EV, and of course the Tesla Cybertruck may willy likely be far more expensive than the VF Wild, leaving VinFast to target buyers seeking value and practicality in a mid-size electric truck.

Despite criticism for build quality, refinement, and driving dynamics, VinFast has been expanding its global sales, even considering entry into right-hand-drive markets like India and Indonesia. The acquisition of Holden's former Proving Ground site in Australia and the hiring of former Holden engineers hint at further expansion possibilities.

In addition to the VF Wild, VinFast recently introduced the VF3, a compact EV with an affordable price tag, which is set to go global. With ambitious plans for electric vehicle factories in North Carolina, Indonesia, and India, as well as multiple other models in development, VinFast appears determined to carve out a niche in the global electric vehicle market.

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