Electric motorbikes are clean and quiet; however, many readers have raised concerns regarding the support available for ride-hailing drivers during the transition.

A reader with the nickname QTr expressed support for the adoption of electric vehicles but highlighted the need to address several key issues:

"Firstly, the approach should begin with encouragement. For example, petrol vehicles could be subject to an annual environmental management fee or higher environmental charges when registering new petrol-powered motorbikes.

Secondly, it is important to assess the projected electricity supply and, in particular, ensure electrical safety.

While policies should be implemented without delay, they should be introduced gradually rather than enforced immediately. Issues such as electrical safety, fire prevention, the lifespan of electric vehicles compared to petrol-powered models, battery durability, and battery disposal all require careful evaluation.

Electric motorbikes are quiet and do not produce emissions at the point of use. Petrol motorbikes generate noise and air pollution. It is expected that the plan will be implemented in the long term."

This comment expresses support for Ho Chi Minh City's proposal to transition all ride-hailing motorbikes to electric models, while pointing out two areas that require further consideration.

At a meeting on 17th May, the Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee announced that approximately 400,000 motorbikes are expected to be converted to electric as part of the plan.

Relevant agencies have conducted field surveys, identified implementation requirements, and reviewed potential rest areas that could also serve as charging stations for ride-hailing drivers. A complete plan is expected to be finalised in June, with expert consultation to follow. The full implementation timeline is expected to be released in July.

Another reader, using the nickname nhavy2599, stated: "Thorough research is necessary to ensure the transition is effective. If petrol motorbikes are replaced with electric ones, where will they be charged? Infrastructure, charging station availability and speed, and vehicle performance all need to be addressed."

Financial concerns among ride-hailing drivers were a recurring theme in reader comments:

"I support the initiative, but there must be policies in place to assist drivers, such as buy-back schemes for old vehicles, subsidies, or low-interest loans to help them purchase new electric motorbikes. Many in this group are not in a strong financial position," said reader joong hoo Lee.

"I support the plan, but from the drivers' perspective - how will they afford electric motorbikes when their current ones may still be under finance?" wrote reader Ngoc Tuoi.

"For those who rely on ride-hailing for their daily income, this transition could be a burden. Adequate support policies are necessary for the plan to be effective," said reader Thanh Nguyễn.