VinFast’s newly established California dealership network is officially up and running.

The Vietnamese electric vehicle manufacturer’s first authorized dealership in the Golden State, VinFast San Diego, held its grand opening event Tuesday. The event, attended by company executives, local media and consumers, included the opportunity to test drive the brand’s two flagship U.S. electric SUVs: the mid-size VF 8 and the full-size VF 9.

The dealership, part of the Sunroad Automotive Group, represents the first step in Vinfast’s plan to replace its 15 company-owned California retail stores with franchise dealerships.

In a news release, the automaker said California is its top priority as it accelerates the development of its dealership network nationwide, thanks to its “significant EV growth potential.” Vinfast said it is “actively seeking and evaluating opportunities with other potential dealerships” in the state.

“The successful grand opening of our San Diego dealership was met with a positive response from local consumers,” VinFast’s U.S. vice president of sales and marketing Mike Nolte said. “This event marks a pivotal moment in our strategy to build a robust U.S. dealership network, reaffirming our long-term commitment to California and the broader North American market.

“We are committed to effective and sustainable expansion by leveraging our partners’ strong reputation, established infrastructure and deep understanding of the local market.”

VinFast entered the U.S. market in 2022 with direct sales locations in California, but shifted its focus to the dealership sales model with the signing of its first five franchisees in late 2023, while keeping its locations in California.

The company said it recently made the decision to fully transition to a franchise dealership model in all 50 states, “recognizing the distinct advantages of this distribution channel” to maximize business efficiency.

Currently, VinFast has nearly 30 authorized dealerships in 14 states in the U.S., including five of the six most populous states: California, Texas, Florida, New York and Illinois.

VinFast San Diego began operations earlier this summer. The dealership includes sales and service operations, including warranty support, maintenance and repair, and genuine VinFast parts.

Uri Feldman, president Sunroad Holding Company, which operates 12 dealerships and a collision center in the San Diego area, said the group is “incredibly proud” to be VinFast’s first California dealer, adding the brand is “shaping an exciting new chapter in the global electric vehicle revolution.”

“We believe in VinFast’s strong potential to make a lasting impact in the North American market,” he said. “At Sunroad, we’re committed to being a trusted and strategic partner, working together to create mutual value, drive growth and deliver high-quality vehicles along with exceptional experiences to our customers.”

NY dealer donates to help college expand its auto tech program

Jack Weidinger, president of the Weidinger Automotive Group and past chairman of the Greater New York Automobile Dealers Association is helping made a contribution to the auto industry’s future, donating $25,000 to Suffolk Community College’s Automotive Technology program.

The contribution will help expand training opportunities for students entering the auto service industry, an area that is experiencing a nationwide shortage of technicians.

Automotive technology students from Suffolk County Community College joined New York dealer Jack Weidinger (left) for a check presentation at North Bay Cadillac GMC’s service center. Photo courtesy of GYNADA.

Suffolk County Community College is in the midst of a major expansion, with plans to double the size of its automotive program in an effort to train more technicians and meet the industry’s growing demand for skilled professionals. The college operates New York’s largest auto tech program, with 260 full-time students currently enrolled in the two-year curriculum.

“I’m proud to support Suffolk Community College’s efforts to create more opportunities for the next generation of automotive professionals,” Weidinger said. “The need for highly skilled technicians is greater than ever, and this program is helping students launch successful, well-paying careers right here on Long Island.”

Weidinger is a third-generation auto dealer whose family has been selling luxury vehicles on Long Island since 1938. Weidinger Automotive currently operates three locations in the New York City area, two of them — North Bay Cadillac GMC and Jaguar Land Rover Freeport — on Long Island.

“Jack’s leadership and commitment to education have always stood out,” GYNADA president Mark Schienberg said. “This donation reinforces the important partnership between local dealerships and educational institutions to address the growing demand for technicians.

“Suffolk’s expansion will open doors for hundreds of students and strengthen the entire automotive industry in our region.”