VinFast Electric Vehicles: Unmatched Water-Wading Champions in the Market

At the “Test and Trust – Conquer the VF 8” experiential event held on May 17-18, 2025, in Ho Chi Minh City, participants had the unique opportunity to witness the VF 8’s full operational capabilities through a series of challenges typically reserved for off-road vehicles. These included slalom runs, navigating through 30 cm deep water pits, traversing uneven terrain, climbing a 3-meter high ramp, and acceleration tests. The VF 8 seamlessly handled each challenge, showcasing its versatility and performance.

Previously, VinFast made headlines in July 2022 at an event in Do Son, Hai Phong, where the electric vehicle’s deep-water wading capabilities were demonstrated.

During the event, VinFast conducted deep-water tests with the VF e34 and a new electric motorcycle. The vehicles successfully navigated a 100-meter flooded road with water levels reaching 50 cm, submerging the license plates and tires. Both VF e34 models completed the test without any issues.

Electric vehicles have a distinct advantage over internal combustion engine vehicles when driving through flooded areas. Water can easily enter the engine through the air intake, causing hydrostatic lock. For cars, flooding poses risks to the drivetrain and electrical systems located beneath the floor. Motorcycles, on the other hand, face issues such as water entering the combustion chamber and wetting the spark plugs, leading to engine failure.

Electric vehicles stand out due to their lack of internal combustion engines, eliminating the risk of hydrostatic lock. Direct drive motors simplify the drivetrain, reducing complexity.

According to Financial Express, a leading Indian and international financial news magazine, electric vehicles are relatively safe in flooded conditions thanks to their IP67 or IP65-rated protection systems, depending on the model. Higher IP ratings indicate better dust and water resistance. Modern electric vehicles can safely drive through water depths of up to 1 meter for approximately 30 minutes. Additionally, battery packs are often encased in multiple protective layers and are self-insulated, minimizing the risk of electrical leaks or short circuits during flooding.

VinFast emphasizes that while electric vehicles offer superior water resistance compared to fossil fuel-powered cars, they are not designed to function as boats. Electric vehicles can safely operate in specific water depths and for limited durations to avoid getting stranded in unforeseen circumstances, but they are not invincible in all conditions.

Prolonged driving through deep water can lead to water infiltration into the battery or electric motor. Moreover, driving in severe weather with strong currents increases the risk of the vehicle being swept away. Therefore, it is advisable to minimize frequent travel through flooded areas to ensure safety and extend the vehicle’s lifespan.

For those seeking robust SUVs with high ground clearance and exceptional water-wading capabilities, models like the Toyota Fortuner, Land Cruiser, Prado, Ford Everest, and Subaru Forester are excellent choices, especially during heavy rainfall and flooded roads.