Vietnamese electric vehicle manufacturer VinFast is recalling 4,888 VF 8 models in the U.S. due to a defect in the central airbags, which may improperly deploy and potentially injure drivers. The affected models are from 2023 to 2025. The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) identified the issue during a safety test, revealing that the airbag's shape and inflation angle could cause it to unfold between the driver’s arm and torso during side impacts.
VinFast has collaborated with NHTSA to redesign the airbag, and dealers will replace the defective airbags free of charge. The company will notify owners by mail in January 2025. Despite these challenges, VinFast continues to expand its U.S. lineup, recently launching the VF 9, a three-row electric SUV with an EPA-estimated range of up to 330 miles.
