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THE Vietnam, a true bastion of two-wheelers, is facing a crisis of air pollution due to harmful emissions generated by gasoline vehicles. In this context, the government is implementing initiatives to promote the transition to electric vehicles. This ambitious approach aims not only to improve air quality in large cities like Hanoi, but also to transform the travel habits of millions of Vietnamese, who see in electric scooters a glimmer of hope for a more sustainable future.
THE Vietnam, known as a true paradise for two-wheelers, faces a growing problem of air pollution. Vietnamese authorities encourage the transition to electric scooters in order to reduce toxic emissions from thermal vehicles. This article explores government initiatives and user behavior in the face of this crucial transition for public health and the country’s environmental future.
An alarming observation about air quality
In the crowded streets of Hanoi, air quality has become a major concern. Many users, like Phung Khac Trung, a young motorbike taxi driver, describe the situation as “unbearable”. With 85% of road traffic made up of two-wheelers, air pollution is fueled by exhaust gases that accumulate at every stop, creating a harmful environment for residents.
Government initiatives in favor of electricity
Faced with this environmental challenge, the Vietnamese government has put in place several initiatives to promote electric vehicles. The goal is to reach 25% electric two-wheelers among the 77 million registered motorcycles and scooters by 2030. In 2023, only 9% of two-wheeler sales were electric, although this figure will continue to grow , highlighting a favorable trend towards the transition.
A growing market
In 2023, Vietnam will record 300,000 new registrations of electric scooters, a figure that exceeds those of Europe. Only nations like China and the India performed better in this category. The growing popularity of these vehicles is particularly driven by young adults, 80% of whom own electric two-wheelers are students, attracted by reduced operating costs.
The challenges of a successful transition
However, the transition to electric faces several challenges. The practicality of gasoline motorcycles, known for their rapid recharging, arouses reluctance among users like Tran Thi Hoa, a fruit seller who expresses her concerns about the recharging times of electric scooters. The installation of charging stations is still insufficient, although VinFast, a national manufacturer, recently developed nearly 150,000 stations across the country.
Partnerships and new trends
The growth of the electric scooter market is not limited to individuals. Companies such as Vingroup, the parent company of VinFast, have initiated delivery services using electric two-wheelers. Likewise, Selex, an innovative start-up, has developed battery swapping, making it possible to exchange discharged batteries quickly, which could tip the scales in favor of electric.
The call for investment
According to many experts, to maximize the potential of electric scooters in Vietnam, significant investments are needed. There World Bank advocated a need for billions of dollars in electricity infrastructure to support growing demand. This initiative must be accompanied by a solid roadmap to guarantee the harmonious transition towards sustainable mobility and reduce dependence on fossil fuels, the source of more than half of the country’s electricity needs.
Commitment to carbon neutrality
With a goal of achieving the carbon neutrality By 2050, Vietnam is demonstrating unprecedented determination to transform its private and commercial sector. The transition to electric vehicles represents not only an opportunity to improve air quality, but also a strategy to create millions of manufacturing jobs by 2050.