Electric vehicle manufacturers are racing to solve the biggest pain point for users: the inconvenience of charging. Removable battery solutions, easily carried into homes or offices for charging, are becoming a trend. After Honda stirred the market with the ICON e:, VinFast immediately responded with the brand new Evo Grand Lite.
Both models boast eye-catching designs and removable battery features, but they follow vastly different philosophies, leaving many users undecided. Let’s weigh them side by side to see which contender comes out on top.
1. Price Battle: Who Holds the Advantage?
This is the most critical factor. Both models have a list price under $1,200, but the total cost to get on the road varies significantly.
- VinFast Evo Grand Lite: Starting at $720 (includes 1 battery and 1 charger). For maximum range, users can purchase an additional battery for $200. Total cost: $920 for the 2-battery version.
- Honda ICON e: Priced from $1,056 to $1,072 (battery not included). Users have two options: rent a battery ($14/month) or buy one outright for $392. Total cost if buying the battery: up to $1,464.
In terms of initial cost, the VinFast Evo Grand Lite holds a significant advantage, being nearly $544 cheaper than its competitor when both are fully equipped with batteries.
2. Design Showdown: Japanese Practicality vs. Fashionable Aesthetics?
- Honda ICON e: Embodies Honda’s DNA with a sporty, robust, and practical design. This style appeals to those who appreciate the durability and strength of Japanese vehicles.
- VinFast Evo Grand Lite: Features a softer, sleeker, and more fashionable design, reminiscent of European scooters. This neutral style suits both men and women, particularly students and young professionals.
Ultimately, it depends on personal taste, but for a daily-use vehicle, especially for women, the VinFast Evo Grand Lite’s design is more versatile and easier to style.
3. Power and Range Comparison: Similar Speeds, Different Battery Options
Refer to the table below for a clear comparison of key differences.
| Criteria | VinFast Evo Grand Lite | Honda ICON e: |
| Motor Power | 1,900 W | ~1,500 W (1.5 kW) |
| Top Speed | 48 km/h (limited) | 48 km/h |
| Range (1 battery) | 70 km | 71 km |
| Maximum Range | 128 km (with 2 batteries) | 71 km |
| Charging Time | ~6.5 hours | ~8 hours |
Conclusion: Both models offer similar speeds and single-battery ranges. However, the ability to add an extra battery is VinFast’s trump card, allowing nearly double the range of its competitor and eliminating mid-journey battery anxiety.
4. Convenience and Ecosystem: VinFast’s Strategic Move
This is the biggest differentiator. With the Honda ICON e:, despite having a removable battery, users must charge it themselves.
In contrast, the VinFast Evo Grand Lite benefits from a massive ecosystem:
- Public Charging Stations: Widely available.
- Flexibility: Batteries can be charged at home.
In terms of convenience, VinFast holds a clear advantage. Its charging station and battery-swapping ecosystem is a strategic move that makes using the vehicle significantly easier and more proactive.
The Honda ICON e: is a safe choice, offering brand reliability and durability. However, when compared comprehensively, the VinFast Evo Grand Lite emerges as a more economical, flexible, and user-friendly option. With its attractive pricing, doubled range, and superior ecosystem support, it’s the ideal choice for daily commuting, especially for young Vietnamese users.
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