The Road to a Greener Hanoi: A Bold Vision to Reduce Traffic in the City’s Heart

On June 9th, Chairman of the Hanoi People’s Committee, Tran Sy Thanh, met with the Vietnam Motorcycle Manufacturers Association (VAMM) to discuss solutions for the transition from fossil fuel-powered motorcycles and scooters in Hanoi.

In her report at the meeting, VAMM Chairman Sayaka Arai, who is also the General Director of Honda Vietnam, provided an overview of the association. Founded in 2013, VAMM comprises Honda Vietnam as the chairman and other members, including Yamaha Motor Vietnam, SYM Vietnam, Suzuki Vietnam, and Piaggio Vietnam. VAMM’s mission is to unite motorcycle manufacturers to produce high-quality, safe, and environmentally friendly vehicles.

Acting as a bridge between businesses and the government, VAMM contributes to policy development and the advancement of the motorcycle industry and society as a whole. Beyond its social contributions, VAMM makes significant financial contributions, paying approximately VND 20,000 billion in taxes annually to the state budget. It has also established a vast supply chain with around 2,000 dealers and 200 spare parts suppliers, providing stable employment for over 200,000 workers.

On behalf of VAMM members, Ms. Arai proposed solutions for the transition from fossil fuel-powered motorcycles and scooters in Hanoi. Specifically, she suggested that for gasoline-powered vehicles, the focus should be on producing and using cleaner gasoline, including setting limits on fuel consumption, adopting the EURO4 emission standard, utilizing biofuels, and controlling emissions from vehicles already on the road. Regarding electric vehicles, VAMM recommended that the city develop a feasible roadmap to facilitate the earliest possible transition by 2030.

Emphasizing the significance of the transition from gasoline-powered vehicles to electric ones, the VAMM Chairman suggested that the Government and Hanoi authorities broaden discussions with all relevant stakeholders to make informed decisions. Additionally, the city should thoroughly deliberate on the level of air pollution caused by gasoline vehicles to accurately assess the effectiveness of the policy shift towards electric vehicles.

Continuing the Plan to Reduce Motorcycles in Four Inner Districts

In his remarks at the meeting, Chairman Tran Sy Thanh acknowledged VAMM’s input and proposals aimed at improving policies and practical implementation related to motorcycles, particularly electric motorcycles, in Hanoi.

Mr. Thanh pointed out that while the development of motorcycles offers convenience to citizens, it also presents significant challenges to the sustainable growth of urban areas. Recognizing these challenges, the Hanoi People’s Council issued Resolution No. 04/2017/NQ-HĐND, approving the project “Strengthening management of road traffic means to reduce traffic congestion and environmental pollution in Hanoi for the period of 2017-2020, with a vision to 2030.”

“This decision was not made abruptly, and we will continue to implement this plan in the four inner districts with carefully considered steps,” affirmed Chairman Tran Sy Thanh.

Regarding the timing of the implementation, the Chairman shared that while they would consider VAMM’s input, they could not delay it indefinitely. The roadmap for reducing motorcycles has been publicly announced since 2017, and the city intends to stick to it. Hanoi is receiving support from various countries, including Japan and the European Union, in developing its public transport system. By 2030-2035, the city plans to construct approximately ten urban railway routes.

“We understand that motorcycles are not the sole cause of all issues, but they significantly impact our society and urban culture,” said Mr. Thanh. “It affects not just personal convenience but also the communal living environment.” As such, Hanoi is committed to creating a healthier urban environment and hopes that VAMM will join hands with the city in this transformation. Recognizing that motorcycles are part of Vietnam’s culture, the Chairman emphasized the need for a well-planned roadmap to transition from fossil fuel-powered vehicles. “However, if we lack determination, we may never achieve the level of urban development seen in major cities in Japan and other countries,” he added.