Hanoi, April 20, 2026 – The Europe Today: Hanoi has unveiled an ambitious roadmap to transition its entire public bus network to electric and clean energy-powered vehicles by 2030, as part of efforts to promote sustainable urban transport and reduce emissions.
The initiative marks a key pillar in the Vietnamese capital’s long-term environmental strategy, focusing on cutting reliance on petrol and diesel-powered buses while improving air quality and urban living standards.
According to city authorities, the transition will be implemented in two phases. During 2025–2026, the focus will be on finalising policy frameworks, expanding the electric bus network, and developing essential infrastructure, including fast-charging stations. In the second phase from 2027 to 2030, Hà Nội aims to accelerate the replacement of fossil fuel-powered buses, with green vehicles expected to account for 79–89 percent of the fleet by 2029 and reach full conversion by 2030.
To support this transformation, the municipal People’s Committee has introduced a series of incentives and policy measures. The Department of Construction has been tasked with aligning public transport contract durations with vehicle depreciation cycles, a move designed to make investment in new energy buses more attractive for operators.
Meanwhile, the Department of Industry and Trade is developing a comprehensive network of charging stations and green energy supply systems, alongside upgrades to the city’s power grid to accommodate rising electricity demand.
A significant policy adjustment includes increasing interest rate subsidies for enterprises investing in electric buses and related infrastructure. The city now covers up to 70 percent of loan interest—up from 50 percent previously—to offset higher upfront costs, as electric buses are estimated to be two to three times more expensive than conventional diesel vehicles.
Implementation is already underway. Under Plan No. 149/KH-UBND, Hà Nội has launched 10 new electric bus routes since early April, adding 288 vehicles through a competitive bidding process.
By April 30, the number of electric and clean energy-fueled buses is expected to reach 822, including 683 electric buses and 139 vehicles powered by alternative fuels, accounting for more than 42 percent of the city’s total fleet.
Currently, Hà Nội operates 155 bus routes, including 128 subsidised services, covering all communes and wards. The fleet exceeds 2,200 buses, with over 1,500 meeting Euro IV emission standards or higher.
Officials noted that while progress has been substantial, continued advancements in infrastructure, financing mechanisms, and private sector participation will be essential to achieving the city’s goal of a fully green and sustainable public transport system by 2030.
