Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City Transition to Electric Public Transport

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In a significant move toward sustainable urban transport, Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are transforming their public transport networks by replacing outdated buses with electric vehicles. This initiative aims to phase out diesel vehicles by 2035, helping to reduce emissions and improve air quality.

Since the late 2021 launch of its first electric route, Hanoi has electrified 15 major corridors, deploying 236 zero-emission vehicles. This year alone, five additional routes have been converted to electric. Meanwhile, Ho Chi Minh City has introduced 163 electric buses, urging transport firms to switch existing gasoline and diesel routes to electric alternatives, with the goal of completing the transition by 2030. From 2025 onwards, all new routes must use electric or green energy vehicles.

Residents warmly welcome the electric buses, appreciating the enhanced service quality and convenient payment systems. Le Thi Ngoc Diep, a Hanoi resident, expressed satisfaction with her electric bus route's onboard services, hoping for more electric options to encourage people to use public transport over personal vehicles.

However, this transition involves solving a complex financial puzzle. Hanoi's full conversion is projected to cost nearly VND48.63 trillion (US$1.88 billion), with almost VND36 trillion from the city's budget. Funds are designated for vehicle purchases, interest payments, and charging station infrastructure. Phan Truong Thanh of the municipal Department of Construction suggests enacting policies to mobilize domestic and international resources for non-emission vehicles and infrastructure.

Ho Chi Minh City estimates a funding requirement of over VND3.52 trillion for the 2025-2030 conversion initiative, including VND2 trillion in loan subsidies for vehicle conversion and VND1.3 trillion for charging stations. The current infrastructure for green buses, such as electricity supply stations, remains inadequate. By 2030, the city aims to support 3,300 electric buses with at least 25 charging stations and 269 charging posts.

Nguyen Duy Khanh from the Saigon Passenger Transport JSC acknowledges the alignment with government net-zero commitments but notes that substantial investment costs and the scarcity of charging stations present challenges for businesses.

To support the transition, Hanoi's Vice Chairman, Nguyen Manh Quyen, has directed departments to develop policies aiding businesses in vehicle investment and conversion. This includes enhancing investment in technical infrastructure and charging stations for clean energy vehicles. He also emphasizes the importance of evaluating transport units using a 'star' rating system for green bus companies, aiming to improve service quality for residents.

These steps highlight both cities' commitment to adopting sustainable transport solutions and contributing to a cleaner environment.

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from VN Express 2025-05-14