“Hanoi Construction Department Deputy Director: No Mandatory Mass Switch from Gasoline Vehicles to Prioritize Electric Vehicle Suppliers, Transition to Follow Natural Vehicle Replacement Cycle”

Hanoi’s Transition from Gasoline to Electric Vehicles: A Structured, Non-Disruptive Approach

As Hanoi progresses with its shift from gasoline to electric vehicles, many residents have expressed concerns that the transition is occurring too rapidly, placing undue pressure on businesses and individuals. Addressing these worries, Mr. Đào Việt Long provided detailed insights during a recent forum, clarifying the phased approach and the city’s efforts to address practical challenges faced by citizens.

“The city will not implement this transition in a scattered manner. Instead, we have clearly identified specific vehicle groups requiring prioritized conversion timelines, along with corresponding support policies. These measures ensure alignment with real-world conditions and the capacity of both businesses and residents,” Mr. Long explained.

According to the plan, the first group includes motorcycles and mopeds used for commercial transport, encompassing those operated via ride-hailing apps. This group will achieve 20% conversion by January 1, 2027, 50% by January 1, 2028, and full completion by January 1, 2030.

The second group comprises taxis and commercial passenger vehicles with up to eight seats, including those utilizing technology platforms. Key milestones for this group are: 100% new investments in clean energy vehicles from July 1, 2026; 50% conversion by January 1, 2028; and full completion by January 1, 2030.

“This timeline allows transport companies and software providers to proactively plan their transition without facing immediate, overwhelming changes,” emphasized the Deputy Director of Hanoi’s Department of Construction.

Mr. Long highlighted two key reasons for prioritizing commercial transport vehicles in the early phases:

First, these vehicles operate at high frequencies within urban areas, covering significant daily distances, resulting in higher emissions compared to personal vehicles. Early conversion will substantially reduce emissions, noise, and air pollution in the city center.

Second, these vehicles are directly linked to business operations. While initial purchase costs for certain electric vehicles (especially commercial trucks) remain high, studies indicate lower total ownership costs over their lifecycle due to fuel and maintenance savings. This enables businesses to reduce operational expenses and enhance profitability, while also improving their market image through green initiatives.

The city explicitly avoids mandating simultaneous conversions to favor specific electric vehicle suppliers

During the forum, Mr. Long addressed recent social media misinterpretations of the regulation stating, “From July 1, 2026, 100% of new or replacement vehicles must use clean energy.” This led some residents and businesses to incorrectly believe all existing vehicles must convert immediately.

“I want to clarify that this regulation applies solely to new purchases or replacements after July 1, 2026. Vehicles currently in operation, with valid lifespans and meeting emission standards, are not required to convert immediately,” the Department of Construction leader corrected.

Mr. Long emphasized that Hanoi does not mandate simultaneous conversions to favor specific electric vehicle suppliers. The city’s approach follows the natural vehicle replacement cycle, avoiding sudden burdens on residents and businesses.

Additionally, the city will explore measures to restrict other vehicle types after January 1, 2035. By 2035, the urban rail network is expected to be fully operational, meeting the growing passenger transport demands of the city. This will sufficiently replace personal vehicles, ensuring safe and efficient mobility for residents.

Beyond setting timelines, the city recognizes the need for supportive measures. The draft resolution includes mechanisms to reduce costs for residents and businesses, as previously outlined.

The Deputy Director of Hanoi’s Department of Construction added that this is not a rushed, command-driven process. It is a calculated, prioritized transition with phased conversion ratios and financial support to minimize pressure. The city actively seeks input from residents, businesses, experts, and organizations to refine its policies.