Vietnam's electric two-wheeler market is projected to see increased activity in 2026, supported by policies promoting electric vehicles, expanded production by major manufacturers, and a wider product range offered at competitive prices.

A market in transformation

At the beginning of 2026, Vietnam's two-wheeler market, particularly the electric segment, had undergone changes, with industry participants competing directly and influencing consumer behaviour. Newly implemented policies have increased competition for market share.

Projected growth for electric two-wheelers in 2026

In 2025, members of the Vietnam Motorcycle Manufacturers Association (VAMM) recorded a 1.5% decline compared with the previous year. Honda Vietnam remained the market leader, with the majority of its sales comprising petrol-powered models. Although Honda introduced several electric models, including the ICON:e and CUV e:, its share of the electric segment remained limited.

In the same period, the electric two-wheeler segment recorded growth. VinFast reported an increase of nearly 500% compared with 2024, reflecting expansion within the segment. The Evo range accounted for almost 50% of the company's total sales, indicating demand for compact and lower-priced models.

Other VinFast models, including the Feliz, Klara, Vento, Vero X, and Theon, as well as small licence-free vehicles such as the Motio, Zgoo, and Flazz, also contributed to the company's electric two-wheeler performance in 2025.

Beyond VinFast, several other electric two-wheeler brands expanded their activities in 2025. Although precise sales figures were not disclosed, companies such as Yadea, Dat Bike, Pega, Selex Motors, and Before All introduced new models and expanded nationwide production, distribution, and after-sales service networks. This contributed to the development of a broader electric vehicle ecosystem.

Policy-driven changes in consumer behaviour

The year 2026 is expected to be a key period as green transportation policies take effect and directly influence users. From 1 July, Hanoi will implement a low-emission zone within Ring Road 1, restricting petrol two-wheelers during specified hours or within designated areas. From 1 January 2028, the low-emission zone will extend to parts of Ring Road 2, and from 1 January 2030, to Ring Road 3.

These measures are influencing consumer behaviour. Users previously reliant on petrol two-wheelers are considering a shift to electric alternatives, supported by pricing levels, operating costs, charging and battery-swapping options, and regulatory requirements affecting urban mobility.

Intensifying competition for market share

In comments to media sources, Mr. Nguyen Manh Thang, Director of WhatcarVN, stated that incentives for green vehicles are a primary factor encouraging users to shift from petrol to electric two-wheelers. He indicated that this trend is likely to lead to an increase in electric two-wheeler sales from 2026 onwards, particularly within the mass-market segment.

He further observed that the user base for electric two-wheelers is expanding beyond students to include adults, with models positioned to compete with premium petrol scooters. According to Mr Thang, 2026 may represent a turning point, as the electric segment constitutes "an entirely new market slice". Unlike the long-established petrol two-wheeler market, the electric sector does not yet have a fixed hierarchy, allowing early entrants to secure market share.

He added that brands are positioning themselves to strengthen their presence, and that established petrol two-wheeler manufacturers such as Honda are introducing electric models in response to changing consumer preferences.

Battery-swapping infrastructure as a factor

Regarding battery-swapping networks, Mr Thang highlighted regional differences in demand. In rural areas, home charging is generally manageable; however, in apartments, dormitories, and rented accommodation common in urban centres, charging presents challenges. As a result, the availability of infrastructure and battery-swapping stations influences market share.

He stated that electric two-wheeler users prioritise operating costs, requiring swapping systems to be flexible and accessible. The structure of battery-swapping networks is therefore expected to influence brand performance in Vietnam's electric two-wheeler market over the next one to three years.

Current industry landscape

VinFast operates a battery-swapping network and has announced plans for further expansion this year. Honda Japan is deploying Honda Motor Charger Hubs and Honda e:Swap Battery Stations at electric vehicle dealerships, initially focusing on major cities.

Following completion of the first phase of its electric two-wheeler factory in Bac Ninh, Yadea is upgrading its dealer-based charging and swapping points. The company also provides battery-swapping services through a mobile application and collaborates with Grab to connect manufacturers, rental operators, and charging station service providers, creating integrated service arrangements for driver-partners.

Industry observers state that competition among VinFast, Honda, Yadea, and other market participants is increasing consumer options and contributing to pricing adjustments, ecosystem development, and changes in after-sales service standards.

At a macroeconomic level, Vietnam's two-wheeler market is undergoing restructuring, with early entrants positioned to benefit from market developments.