Electric Bus Pilot Project Extended in Ho Chi Minh City
Bui Xuan Cuong, Vice Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee, has issued a document adjusting the pilot period for the city’s first electric bus route, managed by the Department of Transportation. The department has been instructed to ensure the route operates in accordance with regulations.
Following the pilot period, a comprehensive evaluation will be conducted to propose the next steps in tendering or ordering, ensuring alignment with practical considerations and the city’s budget capabilities.
The Vice Chairman has requested the Department of Transportation to collaborate with relevant departments to establish technical-economic norms and unit prices for electric bus services in the fourth quarter of 2024. These norms and prices will be submitted to the city’s People’s Committee for official implementation within Ho Chi Minh City.
The D4 electric bus line, operated by Vinbus Eco Transport Services Company Limited, has been in service since March 2022. The bus line has received positive feedback from passengers due to its modern amenities and environmentally friendly features.
Despite an increase in the average number of passengers per trip, revenues have not been sufficient to cover expenses. According to Vinbus’ report, the current subsidy rate is too low (44.1%), only reaching two-thirds of the subsidy rate for diesel and CNG bus lines.
Vinbus had previously planned to introduce four additional lines beyond the D4 route. However, this expansion is contingent upon resolving challenges related to depot infrastructure and charging station construction in Thu Duc City, as well as establishing a reasonable subsidy rate for electric buses.
The Department of Transportation is currently working with relevant departments to calculate and issue unit prices and norms, which are expected to be submitted to the city’s People’s Committee in the third quarter of this year.
Proposed Planning for Adding 2 New Cities in Ho Chi Minh City
According to Architect Ngô Viết Nam Sơn, Ho Chi Minh City should consider planning two cities within the city in the south and north.
Three Economic Growth Scenarios for Ho Chi Minh City in Q1 2024
At the socio-economic meeting reviewing the results of January and setting the goals for February 2024, held this morning (1/2), the Ho Chi Minh City Institute for Research and Development has presented three economic growth scenarios for the first quarter of Ho Chi Minh City.