Transport upgrade to make cities cleaner
Vietnam is implementing ambitious plans to reduce pollution and modernise urban transport in the major tourism destinations of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, with significant implications for both residents and visitors.
In Hanoi, petrol-powered motorbikes will be banned from central areas within Ring Road 1, starting July 1, 2026. Restrictions will expand to areas within Ring Road 2 by 2028 and Ring Road 3 by 2030. The city will publish a low-emission zone master plan by the third quarter of 2025, prioritising electric buses and trains, alongside investments in EV charging infrastructure.
Ho Chi Minh City will introduce 37 new electric bus routes from August 2025 and aims to transition 400,000 delivery and ride-hailing motorcycle riders to zero-emission electric bikes by 2029. The city targets a 100 per cent green-energy bus fleet by 2030.
While these policies may limit access to traditional motorbikes within urban areas, travellers can expect cleaner air, quieter streets and more sustainable transportation options.
For advice about how these changes may affect travel planning, contact Asian Trails Vietnam.