Affordable EV matchup: Dongfeng Nammi vs VinFast VF 5

In recent years, the Philippine market has become a battleground for affordable but highly capable electric vehicle (EV) models. And for the most part, the aforementioned is a big boon for people wanting to enter the realm of all-electric mobility without having to splurge too much on a car. 

Dongfeng Motors Philippines currently offers two all-electric hatchbacks, one of which is the Nammi, introduced to the market last year. VinFast Philippines, on the other hand, has entered the market with a whole slew of offerings, including the VF 5 crossover. 

So, which of the two is better on paper? Let’s find out here. 

Tale of the tape

To kick off the comparison between the Dongfeng Nammi and the VinFast VF 5, let us consider their dimensions. Doing so, after all, is crucial in car buying, as it can provide clues on how much room it can provide to occupants and if it can fit inside one’s garage. 

Here’s a table putting together side-by-side the measurements of the two subcompact all-electric nameplates: 

Model	Dongfeng Nammi	VinFast VF 5
Length (in millimeters)	4,030	3,967
Width (in mm)	1,810	1,723
Height (in mm)	1,570	1,579
Wheelbase length (in mm)	2,660	2,514

Based on the figures above, the Dongfeng Nammi is slightly larger overall compared to the VinFast VF 5. It also has a longer wheelbase. 

Exterior

When it comes to appearance, both the Dongfeng Nammi and the VinFast VF 5 went for well-proportioned and flat-roofed designs. Being EV models, the two models also feature closed-off front fascias, although the one on the VF 5 has its headlamp clusters positioned low, just a smidge above its front bumper. 

Where exterior equipment is concerned, both get automatic headlamp functionality, LED lighting fixtures, a fin-type antenna, and a set of 17-inch wheels. The Dongfeng model, however, does have additional style points, courtesy of its frameless windows and its hidden door handles. 

On the one hand, the Dongfeng Nammi only has three available exterior color options: yellow, blue, and white. Compare that to the VinFast VF 5’s four selection of hues, which include blue, white, red, and grey. 

Be aware, though, that the Nammi is classed as a hatchback whereas the VF 5 is a crossover. In that regard, the VinFast model gets some black plastic trim pieces on its side, while the Nammi does not. 

Interestingly enough, however, the two still have the rounded backside common to hatchbacks. The two nameplates also have the same amount of ground clearance, measuring at 160 mm. 

Interior

Inside the two EV nameplates is a five-seater cabin paired with a minimalist-looking cockpit. Both models also get some measure of soft-touch surfaces, as well as leather-type upholstery. The VinFast model’s cabin color scheme, however, is primarily black with a handful of silver-colored accent pieces. Meanwhile, the Dongfeng car features a brighter white interior with diamond-stitch patterns incorporated into smooth black sections. 

For their driving amenities, both EV units get a leather-wrapped steering wheel with buttons, a digital gauge cluster, a drive mode selector, and a push-to-start button. The Nammi, however, features an electronic parking brake, whereas the VF 5 was equipped with a hand-operated manual parking brake. 

Shifting gears on the Dongfeng model differs significantly from that of the VinFast. For the former, it utilizes a stalk-type shifter mounted on its column, while the latter has a dial-type gear selector. 

Other interior equipment found on both the Dongfeng Nammi and the VinFast VF 5 includes: 

• Manually adjustable front seats
• 12-volt accessory outlet
• USB ports
• Cup/bottle holders

On the flip side, the Nammi has loads of amenities that are not present on the VF 5. Some examples include a smart key, a wireless charging pad, and ambient lighting. Additionally, the Dongfeng model keeps its occupants cool using an automatic climate control system, whereas the VinFast model uses a simpler manual air-conditioning system. 

Regarding infotainment systems, the Dongfeng Nammi features a 12-inch display, which is larger than the VinFast VF 5’s eight-inch screen. However, the VinFast model does feature Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which are not available on the Dongfeng model. 

Safety

For their basic safety kits, the Dongfeng Nammi and the VinFast VF 5 were equipped with dual front airbags, anti-lock braking, a reverse camera, traction control, hill-start assist, ISOFIX, and tire pressure monitoring. 

However, the VinFast VF 5 was equipped with curtain airbags and front seat side airbags, which are all unavailable on the Dongfeng Nammi. 

The two all-electric rides also have a selection of advanced driver-assist systems. Found on the two are a parking assist system. 

Exclusive to the Nammi but not present on the VF 5 are the following ADAS features: 

• Automatic emergency braking
• Traffic jam assist
• Intelligent high beam control
• Lane keep and centering assist
• Adaptive cruise control
• Forward collision warning
• Highway assist
• Automated park assist

On the one hand, the VF 5 does come with blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. 

Powertrain

Under the hood of the Dongfeng Nammi is a single permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) connected to a 42.3 kilowatt-hour battery. At maximum, it can generate up to 93 horsepower and 160 Newton-meters (Nm) of torque. It also has a range of  430 kilometers (km) according to the China Light-Duty Vehicle Test Cycle (CLTC). 

Meanwhile, the VinFast VF 5 uses a single PMSM motor paired with a 37.23 kWh battery. The said system can produce up to 134 hp and 135 Nm of torque. The Vietnamese company’s local arm has not provided a CLTC range for the VF 5, but it can cover up to 326 km per the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC). 

When it comes to maximum outputs, the VF 5 has the Nammi beat when it comes to horsepower. On the other hand, the Dongfeng model can supply significantly more in the way of torque - a crucial thing to note since all-electric cars can unleash all of their turning force instantly. 

Regarding suspension systems, both vehicles utilize a MacPherson strut for the front and a torsion beam for the rear. Both also get their stopping power from front and rear disc brakes. 

Other EV-related components common to both are regenerative braking systems and CCS2 fast-charging ports. However, the Nammi does get a vehicle-to-load feature, which is not present on the VF 5. 

Model	Dongfeng Nammi	VinFast VF 5
Motor setup	Single PMSM
Drivetrain	Front-wheel-drive
Battery	42.3 kWh	37.23 kWh
Range	430 km (CLTC)	326 km (NEDC)
Horsepower	93	134
Torque	160 Nm	135 Nm
Front suspension	MacPherson strut
Rear suspension	Torsion beam

Pricing

The Dongfeng Nammi’s sole variant sold locally retails at P1.238 million. The VinFast VF 5, meanwhile, starts at P1.05 million. 

Final thoughts

Overall, the Dongfeng Nammi offers more creature comforts and safety features compared to the VinFast VF 5. The VinFast model, however, is more accessible to a wider range of buyers, courtesy of its more affordable price tag. 

Then again, the VinFast nameplate does have its own set of charms. For instance, it has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto - a key point nowadays for some people. Also, it makes a bit more horsepower compared to the Nammi. 

Regardless, would-be EV buyers looking for something small and easy to drive around the city daily should consider the two models above. And we always say, give both a test drive if you’re really serious about getting into the world of all-electric mobility. 

Also read:

LMI officially launches Dongfeng E70 Pro EV

Dongfeng Motors PH starts roadshows to tap more customers

Check out the Dongfeng Nammi’s 3 fun colors

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