Have you heard the latest buzz? Time Magazine has just released its coveted list of the 100 Most Influential Companies of 2024, and it has some automotive enthusiasts scratching their heads. Among the usual suspects like BMW and Toyota, there's a rather unexpected name: VinFast. Yes, you read that right. The Vietnamese automaker, which is still an underdog in the global automotive arena, has somehow muscled its way onto a list that completely omits industry giants like Tesla, Ford, and General Motors.
VinFast: The Shock EntryWhen you think of influential cars, you probably think of brands that have changed the game in some significant way. Tesla's electric vehicles, Ford’s F-Series trucks, and General Motors' various models come to mind. Yet, none of these industry titans made it onto Time’s list. Instead, VinFast, a company mostly known for its struggles outside Vietnam, has found its name emblazoned among the elite 100.
Why VinFast?
It’s confusing to say the least. VinFast has received a myriad of negative reviews for its limited offerings. More critically, their cars have only managed to penetrate a scant few states in the U.S. With rumors of production delays in North Carolina due to sluggish sales, one can't help but question this choice. When compared to the comprehensive influence exerted by companies like Tesla and Ford, VinFast's inclusion seems almost laughable.
The Big Names That Made the Cut
Of course, there are some choices on the list that make perfect sense. BYD, BMW, and Toyota are automotive titans that have arrays of vehicles impacting roads worldwide. Tata is also on the list, though the focus seems to be more on their iPhone assembly in India and AI, rather than their automotive endeavors like Tata Motors or Jaguar Land Rover.
Technology Giants Intersecting the Automotive Sector
The list doesn't stop at just automakers. Time Magazine also highlights companies like Waymo and Amazon, which have strong stakes in the future of automotive technology. Waymo, a subsidiary of Alphabet (Google’s parent company), is making strides in autonomous driving. Amazon, via its ownership of Zoox, is also delving deep into this emerging market.
Additionally, logistics giants like UPS and Highland Electric Fleets are mentioned. Highland Electric Fleets has gained attention for operating the largest electric school bus fleet in the United States, boasting over 600 electric vehicles across 30 states. These entries make it clear that influencing the automotive industry isn’t just about manufacturing cars anymore.
What Could Have Been
Given all this, it’s surprising not to see some prominent names that have been trailblazing in the automotive world. Tesla, Lucid, Rivian—these are companies continuously pushing the envelope in electric and sustainable vehicle development. Their exclusion raises questions about the criteria Time used to compile this list.
For now, curious minds will ponder how a relatively obscure name like VinFast overshadowed some of the most innovative and influential names in the industry. What does VinFast's inclusion tell us about the future criteria for making such influential lists? It's a testament to how dynamic and unpredictable the automotive world has become, and a subtle nudge to keep our eyes peeled for the underdogs as they make their surprising ascent.