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Shrouded in mystery and security, VinFast “disavows” the Lạc Hồng
VinFast just this week debuted a special fleet of ultra-luxury electric vehicles, using the Lạc Hồng 900 LX, specifically designed to transport international heads of state during Vietnam’s 80th National Day celebrations. While the vehicle boasts impressive specifications and presidential-level security, the company is keeping its technical underpinnings a closely guarded secret.
Interestingly, VinFast has chosen not to brand the vehicle under its typical “VF” nomenclature. An internal source at the company confirmed, “Just Lạc Hồng,” emphasizing a unique identity for this flagship model. VinFast has not disclosed the specific platform on which the vehicle is built, leading to speculation about its origins and whether it signals a new direction for the brand’s high-end offerings.
Our source revealed key specifications, noting that the standard Lạc Hồng 900 LX shares a similar powertrain with the VinFast VF 9 Plus. It features a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive system producing a total of 402 horsepower and 620 Nm of torque, powered by a substantial 123 kWh battery pack. Tipping the scales at 3,035 kg, the standard model is said to achieve a range of up to 595 km on a single charge.
Armored beast
The armored edition, however, is a different beast entirely. Developed in partnership with the renowned Canadian firm INKAS Armored Vehicle Manufacturing, its weight increases dramatically to 5,049 kg. To compensate for the added mass, the power output has been boosted to 455 horsepower. As expected, the extensive armoring takes a toll on efficiency, reducing the driving range to an estimated 450 km.
The armored EV withstood 440 live rounds from NATO Ball M80 rifles and survived 11 explosive blasts when tested in Beschussamt Ulm testing center in Germany. The vehicle is equipped with bullet-resistant glass, run-flat tires capable of traveling 80–100 km after being punctured, and optional features like an onboard oxygen supply and a fire suppression system.
The result of this testing certified the Lạc Hồng 900 LX to the VPAM VR7 standard, one of the most stringent protection levels available.
Cultural design
The exterior design features unique cultural touches, including a gold-plated logo shaped like the mythical Lạc bird and a grille pattern reminiscent of Đông Sơn bronze drums. Inside, the cabin is a showcase of opulence, with Golden Nanmu wood, Nappa leather, and handcrafted gold details. A soundproof glass partition and an advanced intercom system separate the VIP rear cabin — which features extra-wide executive seating — from the chauffeur.
“With the launch of the Lạc Hồng 900 LX, we reaffirm our role as a national brand that elevates Vietnam’s position on the global stage,” said Nguyễn Việt Quang, Vice Chairman and CEO of Vingroup. “Through this model, we hope the world will see a modern and developed Vietnam that has had a remarkable journey during the past 80 years.”
The Lạc Hồng 900 LX is a limited-edition model that leans heavily into Vietnamese cultural heritage, with a name inspired by the legend of the “Descendants of the Dragon and Fairy.” The vehicle is a reflection of VinFast’s ambition to be seen not just as a car manufacturer, but as a symbol of Vietnam’s growing technological prowess and national pride.
Sources add that apart from this heavily armored version, a standard non-armored vehicle will be made available.
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