Transport Electric Motorbike Deals Surge as Vietnam Phases Out Petrol

[snoop1130]

Photo courtesy of VN Express

 

Vietnam is experiencing a significant shift in its transport landscape as major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City move to phase out gasoline-powered motorbikes. This transformation is driving interest in electric motorbikes, with manufacturers eagerly tapping into the momentum through various promotions.

 

In July, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh announced that Hanoi would start banning fossil fuel-powered motorbikes in central areas from mid-2026, aiming to convert the entire city into a low-emission zone by 2030. Ho Chi Minh City is following suit, planning to convert a significant number of petrol-powered ride-hailing motorbikes to electric and restrict private use in certain zones.

 

This policy shift has accelerated public curiosity and demand for electric motorbikes in Vietnam’s largest cities, which are heavily dependent on two-wheeled transport. Manufacturers are seizing the opportunity by launching enticing offers and trade-in programmes.

 

Leading the charge is VinFast, Vietnam’s top domestic electric motorbike brand by market share. The company has introduced a waiver on the full registration fee and an additional 10% discount for Hanoi residents. For instance, customers purchasing a motorbike priced at VND30 million (approximately 46,000 Thai Baht) can save up to VND3.6 million. VinFast’s trade-in program allows users across multiple cities to swap out their petrol bikes for electric models. The company also unveiled its latest models, the Evo Grand and Grand Lite, amid rising consumer interest.

 

Other market players are also entering the fray. Honda is offering discounts of up to VND2.1 million on its ICON e: model, while Yamaha has reduced the price of its Neo's electric bike by VND15 million. Dat Bike, another domestic brand, has rolled out a nationwide trade-in initiative, with discounts up to VND500,000 for purchases of its Quantum S model, priced between VND34.9–49.9 million.

 

A Dat Bike spokesperson noted a fourfold increase in July sales, attributing the rise to recent price cuts, trade-ins, and other purchase incentives.

 

Chinese brand Yadea has recently launched a petrol-for-electric exchange programme, offering a discount of VND2 million on models starting at VND9.9 million. Meanwhile, startup Selex Motors is expanding its network of battery-swap stations and remains the only Vietnamese brand currently offering this model.

 

Manufacturers typically collaborate with third-party firms for motorbike appraisals and buybacks, allowing customers to apply their resale value towards new electric purchases. However, Yadea stands out by managing the process directly through its official stores.

 

A representative from a VinFast dealership in Ho Chi Minh City mentioned that old bikes are often refurbished and resold in smaller provinces or rural areas, where affordable transport options are in demand.

 

Nguyen Huu Phuoc Nguyen, CEO of Selex Motors, highlighted the ongoing structural shift in Vietnam’s motorbike market. He observed that consumers are increasingly open to electric options as product quality improves and charging infrastructure becomes more widespread.

 

“Regulatory changes are accelerating the transition from gasoline to electric, and manufacturers must adapt their strategies to capitalise on this opportunity,” Nguyen stated.

 

As Vietnam steers towards a greener future, these strategic promotions and government policies are set to play a central role in shaping the country’s transportation landscape.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from VN Express 2025-07-30

 

 

[PETERTHEEATER]

Ho Chi Min city has a serious air pollution problem with thousands of daily commuters riding ICE bikes contributing to the problem (yes, motor vehicles too!) and a shift to EV bikes is to be applauded. But, yet again, no mention made of the capabilty of the electrical power grid and infrastructure to support them.

[Will B Good]

Why would they be offering deals?

 

This sounds like they'll be shooting fish in a barrel.

[JoePai]

Wish we had more choice of electric scooters here