Ho Chi Minh City considers resuming operations of electric tourist vehicles

Speaking at a Thursday press conference on the city's socio-economic development, Nguyen Quoc Vinh, deputy head of the municipal Department of Construction's transport management division, said starting July 1, four-wheeled electric vehicles were required to halt operations in the city as on many roads in the city center, the maximum speed limit is set at 30 km/h for all vehicles, causing conflicts in traffic flow management.

These electric vehicles had previously served tourists by connecting major destinations and promoting environmentally friendly transport. 

Their sudden suspension disrupted services for transport businesses and reduced options for travelers.

Vinh noted that the department has received several proposals from companies requesting permission to resume operations. 

On Wednesday, the department held a meeting with representatives from the municipal police, the Department of Tourism, Con Dao Special Zone, local ward authorities, and transport operators to explore solutions.

The Road Traffic Infrastructure Management Center and related units have been assigned to work with businesses and local authorities to conduct field surveys. 

These surveys aim to identify routes suitable for the safe operation of electric vehicles while connecting hotels with tourist attractions.

A traffic plan is expected to be proposed by September. 

Once completed, it will be submitted to the municipal People's Committee for review. 

In the pilot phase, operations may resume on selected routes and within designated hours to support tourism and help transport companies recover.

In the long term, the Department of Construction plans to suggesr that the prime minister authorize more local control over the regulation of electric tourist vehicles. 

This move would address legal uncertainties and better align with local conditions while encouraging green transportation and tourism development.

Vinh emphasized that giving cities greater autonomy would help resolve conflicts with traffic safety laws and support Vietnam's shift toward sustainable, low-emission urban mobility.