Vietnamese electric automaker VinFast has just become the first to integrate Sony’s in-car entertainment service into one of its offerings in the US market.
The move is apparently part of the company’s efforts to boost the appeal of its electric vehicles among American customers.
VinFast first to rev up in-car entertainment with Sony’s RIDEVU in the US
VinFast officially launched the RIDEVU online entertainment service from Japanese tech giant Sony on May 10, 2024.
According to the press release, the company will offer RIDEVU as a free service under the VF Connect Prime package. American VF 8 owners who acquire the said service must simply initiate the over-the-air (OTA) software update version 9.6.1.11 to access Sony’s RIDEVU features.
VinFast’s new partnership with Sony highlights its strong dedication to offering its owners smart electric vehicles with exceptional driving experiences.
“We are thrilled to be the world’s first automobile manufacturer to officially launch RIDEVU, offering an engaging entertainment experience for our US customers. I believe that as a smart and green mobility solution, the VinFast VF 8 will deliver a convenient and enjoyable experience to customers wherever their journey takes them.”
Mr. David Duncan, VinFast’s Vice President of Sales and Marketing
Sony’s RIDEVU in-car entertainment service: Limits and Compatibility
Sony’s RIDEVU in-car entertainment service offers a vast selection of more than 2,000 movies.
Users, particularly US-based VinFast VF 8 owners, will have access to RIDEVU’s library for one year.
“…users can enjoy RIDEVU’s library of regularly updated titles, with unlimited replays of up to 100 movies. Customers can also access premium titles by redeeming credits, purchasing, or renting directly through the app.”
VinFast
In addition, the in-car streaming service supports seamless synchronization and content streaming on multiple screens, such as in-car displays and other devices.
However, users can only use the RIDEVU app while their cars are not in motion or parked. Meanwhile, passengers can still watch their desired movies via their own gadgets using the Screen Manager feature in the RIDEVU Companion app.
Sony’s in-car streaming service supports a wide range of integration, including Android, iOS, Android TV, Apple TV, and Linux.
“Sony Pictures is excited to be working with VinFast for the debut of the RIDEVU service. We are confident that RIDEVU will redefine video entertainment for the automotive industry, beginning with a best-in-class experience for VinFast drivers and passengers.”
Mr. Pete Wood, SVP, Sony Pictures Entertainment’s Digital Sales, Distribution
About the flagship VinFast VF 8
VinFast’s VF 8, now available with Sony RIDEVU, starts at $47,200 MSRP in the US market (mainly in California).
Presented below are the key specifications of the VinFast VF 8 in the US:
| Specs | VF8 ECO | VF8 Plus |
| Overall dimension (LxWxH) | 187 x 76.1 x 65.6 (in) | 187 x 76.1 x 65.6 (in) |
| Wheelbase | 116.1 (in) | 116.1 (in) |
| Battery Capacity | 87.7 (kWh) | 87.7 (kWh) |
| Range per full charge (EPA) | 264 mi | 243 mi |
| Charging speed | 10%-70% in 31 min | 10%-70% in 31 min |
| Engine/e-Motor | Motor x 2 | Motor x 2 |
| Max. power | 349 (hp) | 402 (hp) |
| Vehicle warranty | 10 year/125,000 miles | 10 year/125,000 milespen_spark |
Source: VinFast US
