On July 5—6, 2025, what was once a new sight in Metro Manila turned into a remarkable sight: the VinFast Friendship Caravan ran from Marikina through Mandaluyong. It wasn't just an opportunity for a new EV campaign; in many ways it felt like a statement: "EVs are nearby, and they're real, and they're for the people."
Journey through the city streets builds excitement
There was a convoy of every model and type of VinFast – VF 3, VF 5, VF 6, VF 7, and VF 9 – passing through the city streets, and even the busiest shopping malls. The curiosity was at an all-time high as people peered into the EVs as we passed by them.
We offered demo rides to the quickest registrants, communicating the incredible quietness and smooth feeling of a real EV on the roads. We had information kiosks about battery education, home charging, and getting assistance when needed.
The little touches made it real:
- People had the opportunity to see and touch the EVs – you cannot improve on a personal firsthand experience.
- The local drivers and families stopped by, with stories to tell and questions to ask.
- The atmosphere was lighthearted – a lot of smiles and laughing, and even kids having fun pressing buttons and switches in the cars.
This was not a set-up showroom inside a mall. This was the city intermingled with the everyday life. It felt authentic.
📸💡Don’t blink – the VinFast Caravan is here!
— Frogerxx77 (@AnhPham18487445) July 4, 2025
Catch it from Marikina to Mandaluyong this weekend!#SnapTheFuture #VinFastCaravan #DriveElectrichttps://t.co/6f3liSnLNNhttps://t.co/GPBQmUI68y pic.twitter.com/djbbwbI4vU
Behind the Scenes: Data and Local Partners Matter
This part is where many missed the real story. VinFast did not just drive past, they were taking live data on the caravan:
- Foot traffic near event booths
- Which demo rides had the most sign ups
- Which routes had the most stops
The data is not for bragging rights - it is for understanding where to put next chargers and showrooms. They have partnered with local companies of Goodyear Philippines, Tire King, Power Tread and Marcjan Cavite. They are aiming to hit 100+ service and charging points in the Philippines this year.
It shows VinFast isn’t just selling cars—they’re building a system for them to stay on the road.
Real reactions—emotions mixed with questions
There’s a buzz online:
“The VinFast Friendship Caravan is on the road this weekend!!!”
— from the official VinFast Philippines Instagram
People shared how they felt surprised by how quiet the cars are, and curious about charging at home. One mom said she liked not having to deal with gasoline mess. Another person worried: “What if charger stations break or are too few?”
This is good—it means people are not just dazzled by tech, they’re thinking practical. And that shows VinFast reached real minds and real doubts.
What most aren’t saying: grassroots community impact
Some things stood out that weren’t talked about much:
- Inviting local jeepney and tricycle operators: I spotted a couple at the booths asking about expense and maintenance. This isn’t just basic level marketing, it indicates that VinFast wants all levels of transport to consider EVs.
- Mini training for owners: Many of the demo rides ended with an informal conversation—“Just plug this in at home just like when you charge your cell phone.” Sometimes, these informal conversations create more comfort than a slick advertisement can.
- Live route behaviors: Data from Mandaluyong indicated stopovers were busiest around 2 pm--not what the average mall audience would predict. This means VinFast might plan where to place chargers, based on where people actually stop for EV activity—not just at malls.
What happens next—and why it matters
VinFast plans to pop-up showrooms in Mandaluyong this month. They are meeting with homeowner associations to schedule information nights, and ride demos in the village. Their charging partners will be deploying charging stations in many of the locations identified during the caravan.
In terms of experience for residents of Metro Manila, this means:
- Real opportunity to test the vehicles in your neighborhood.
- More readily available support if you buy one of their v's.
- A culture around EV's that increasingly is not just conversation, but vehicles rolling on the streets.
If you have considered EV's as a mode of transportation in your life, this caravan brought EV's closer- physically and emotionally.
