One of the biggest talking points surrounding VinFast’s new electric scooters (e-scooters) isn’t just the bikes themselves — it’s the battery subscription program that comes with them. For many Filipinos, the idea is unfamiliar. Buyers are used to purchasing a unit, filling it with fuel, and riding away. The thought of subscribing to a battery instead of owning it outright naturally raises a few questions. If you’ve been looking at the VinFast Evo, Feliz II, or Viper, here’s a simple guide to how the system works.
How does the battery subscription program work?
VinFast offers two ownership options. The first is battery subscription, where customers buy the e-scooter but subscribe to the battery service. This provides access to the company’s battery-swapping network while still allowing home charging.
The subscription fee is P439 per battery per month. As an introductory offer, customers who enroll on or before July 31, 2026, receive a free battery subscription for one battery during the first year, plus up to 20 free battery swaps per month.
The second option is battery ownership. Riders purchase the battery outright and avoid monthly fees, but battery swapping is not included.
Can I charge the e-scooter at home?
Yes. All three models can be charged using a standard household outlet through the supplied 400 W charger. A faster 1,000 W charger will also be available as an after-sales accessory.
What is the advantage of battery swapping?
Battery swapping allows riders to exchange a depleted battery for a charged one at designated stations, reducing downtime compared to waiting for a full recharge. According to V-Green, VinFast’s charging partner, approximately 30,000 battery-swapping stations are planned nationwide, beginning with deployments at VinFast dealerships.
Can battery owners still use swapping stations?
No. Battery-swapping services are exclusive to customers enrolled in the subscription program. Owners who purchase their batteries outright will rely on home charging instead.
How long does charging take?
According to VinFast’s estimation, a full charge takes around 3 to 4 hours for one battery and 6 to 8 hours for two batteries. The batteries are interchangeable across the Evo, Feliz II, and Viper models and can be removed for charging.
Are these e-scooters road legal?
Yes. The e-scooters are expected to follow standard LTO registration procedures and require the same licensing and safety compliance as conventional motorcycles.
Can they handle steep roads and carry passengers?
VinFast says they are designed as full-fledged electric e-scooters. Actual performance will depend on rider weight, passenger load, road conditions, terrain, and battery charge level.
Are financing and reservations available?
Yes. Financing packages are available through authorized dealerships. Reservations can be made through VinFast dealerships nationwide or online, with the Early Booking Program running until July 18, 2026.
For riders considering the shift to electric mobility, VinFast’s approach offers flexibility. Whether you prefer the convenience of battery swapping or the simplicity of outright ownership, the company provides both options, making the transition to electric riding a little easier to understand.
Autocar’s Take
While battery subscriptions remain a relatively new concept for Filipino riders, VinFast’s approach offers a level of flexibility that could help ease concerns about electric scooter ownership. Buyers can choose between the convenience of battery swapping or the simplicity of owning the battery outright, depending on their needs and budget. Home charging remains available regardless of the option selected, which adds another layer of practicality. The success of the program will ultimately depend on the rollout and reliability of the planned battery-swapping network, but for now, VinFast’s dual-option strategy provides consumers with more choices as interest in electric mobility continues to grow.
