VinFast DrgnFly E-Bike – FLYING CLOSE TO THE GROUND

VinFast DrgnFly E-Bike

FLYING CLOSE TO THE GROUND

VinFast Auto Ltd. is a Vietnam-based multinational automotive company, and a subsidiary of Vingroup, one of the largest private conglomerates in Vietnam. One of the four exciting products and vehicle services that VinFast introduced at CES 2024 is the DrgnFly e-bike. While being a very new automotive manufacturer, this seems like a natural fit for the brand that is, in the home market, a huge e-scooter manufacturer; extending its two-wheel prowess to the e-bike sector seems like a very natural move to make.

Timing could not be better – with e-bike sales in a boom. The sector is forecast to be worth more than $120 billion – with a ‘b’ – by 2030.  

The VinFast DrgnFly was designed specifically for the US market in collaboration with Eskild Hansen, an award-winning Danish design studio. On the auto side, VinFast has also been using award-winning global design firms for its vehicle designs. The bike is highlighted by a V-shaped, elongated frame. This design is derived from the image of a flying dragon – inspired by “Thang Long” in Vietnam and meant to symbolize the brand’s statement of “venture beyond”. Further design elements include a wide handlebar, balloon tires – for both looks and comfort when riding – and an ergonomic riding position. The frame is lightweight aluminum and discreetly holds an integrated, detachable lithium-ion battery pack. And its many design cues are taken from classic motorcycle design. 

There are multiple riding modes that can be chosen. A 750W motor drives the rear wheel and a torque sensor is there for smooth and instant power delivery. A top speed of 28 mph is available, and the bike provides an electric range of up to 63 miles.

The DrgnFly will retail for $2,800 USD – very attractive for the competitive set of e-bikes and, of course, bikes in general. Where it will be sold is the only outstanding question. While there are nine retail stores in CA and a couple other states, plans for either online sales direct from the brand or other distribution methods have not been clearly stated. We can only hope it is available nationally in an easy-to-order and take-delivery method – and not only through the few retailers in existence. 

OF NOTE: In March of 2022 Vinfast announced it would locate its first North American auto plant in Chatham County, North Carolina. The auto manufacturer will create 7,500 jobs. Last summer the company broke ground at this site and is targeting a production start in 2025.