Ho Chi Minh City launches 35 new bus routes with hundreds of electric buses

Among these, 27 routes are electric, aligning with the national green transition strategy and contributing to the development of a modern, sustainable public transport system.

Speaking at the launch event, Nguyen Vinh Toan, deputy director of the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Construction, noted that the introduction of these 35 new bus routes marks a significant step forward in the city's bus network development.

The Ho Chi Minh City Public Transportation Management Center had earlier proactively conducted bidding, coordinated with relevant units for route surveys and adjustments, and refined the network to better serve public needs.

According to Toan, Ho Chi Minh City, after merging with Binh Duong and Ba Ria-Vung Tau Provinces, has 164 bus routes, including 108 subsidized routes and 56 non-subsidized ones, with 2,342 vehicles in operation.

The city is gradually transitioning from fossil fuel-powered buses to electric and green energy-powered vehicles.

Earlier, Ho Chi Minh City operated 21 electric bus routes with 170 vehicles, accounting for 7.3 percent of the total fleet. 

Starting August 1, an additional 443 electric buses operate across 27 new routes, increasing the total number of electric buses to 613—making up 26.2 percent of the fleet.

“Clean and eco-friendly vehicles now make up 48 percent of the city’s fleet, with around 500 CNG-powered buses," Toan stated.

"This marks a significant step toward the government’s goal of 100 percent green energy-powered public buses by 2030."

The Department of Construction has submitted a proposal to the municipal administration regarding the road map for transitioning from fossil-fueled vehicles to electric and green-energy transport options citywide.

Toan urged all stakeholders to cooperate throughout the operation of the new bus system. 

The Public Transportation Management Center was tasked with closely monitoring operations, promptly addressing arising issues, and listening to public feedback for continuous improvement.

Futa Bus Lines, which operates the 35 new subsidized routes, is committed to maintaining service quality, safety, and modern public service standards.

At 8:00 am on Thursday, hundreds of new electric buses were stationed at the Mien Tay Coach Station in Ho Chi Minh City. The buses are equipped with surveillance cameras, global positioning systems, and free Wi-Fi.

Additional features include automated announcements and cashless payment systems, enhancing convenience for passengers.

Phan Van Hai, deputy general director of Futa Bus Lines, said that the new routes will provide more convenient urban travel options, offer high-quality transport services, and reduce emissions and noise pollution.

This initiative aims to improve urban air quality and promote a modern, civilized city image aligned with global public transport trends.

The bus routes are systematically planned with reasonable travel times, smooth route flows, and strong connectivity with future metro systems, establishing a unified and convenient public transport network for residents and tourists.

Hai added that the electric buses were manufactured at Kim Long Motor Plant in Hue City, central Vietnam. Kim Long Motor is a strategic partner of Futa Bus Lines.

"Our goal is not only to offer an environmentally friendly transport solution, but also to set a new standard in public transport, building a fleet that meets international quality standards and affirms the stature of Vietnam’s public transportation system," he said.