Hanoi approves two-year robotaxi and bus trial

Hanoi has approved a two-year controlled trial of autonomous buses, robotaxis and service robots in the Hoa Lac area, with human safety supervisors required aboard passenger vehicles.

The 24-month test has been authorised for Phenikaa-X JSC, a Vietnamese autonomous-technology developer. It will run on fixed routes at Hoa Lac Hi-Tech Park and the Hoa Lac campus of Vietnam National University-Hanoi.

Set routes and daylight operation

At Hoa Lac Hi-Tech Park, robotaxis and delivery robots will be tested across about 11.5 kilometres. Robotaxis will carry passengers while delivery robots operate within the area.

On the university campus, autonomous buses will run over a route of about 2.8 kilometres, linking dormitories, lecture halls, military-training facilities and bus connections. Cleaning and delivery robots will also be tested there.

Strict operating limits

Testing is scheduled from 9am to 4.30pm, in daylight only. Vehicles cannot operate in heavy rain, thunderstorms, flooding, strong winds, dense fog, natural disasters or other conditions that could compromise traffic safety.

They are limited to 40kph. Each autonomous bus can carry up to eight passengers and each robotaxi up to four, excluding the safety supervisor.

Human control remains required

Autonomous buses and robotaxis must carry a safety supervisor who can take manual control in an emergency or if conditions fall outside the approved limits. Supervisors must have appropriate driving licences and relevant training.

The city said the trial will assess safety, reliability, passenger experience and how the technology integrates with existing transport systems. It will also provide data for future technical standards, operating procedures and management models.

What it means for foreigners in Vietnam

The project is not a commercial launch: fares and commercial passenger services are prohibited during the trial. Visitors and residents should not expect robotaxi bookings across Hanoi at this stage, but the test is a significant step towards understanding how autonomous transport could work in Vietnam.

The trial will be overseen by Hanoi authorities, with results feeding into future policy decisions.

28 August 2026