Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha on May 7 signed a decision showing the Vietnamese government's intent to formalize the use of 4-wheeled electric vehicles, popular with tourists but operating in a legal gray area.

These low-speed carts offer a convenient, environmentally-friendly way to explore restricted urban areas. However, their lack of inclusion in road traffic laws has complicated safety inspections, registration, and taxation.

The current landscape

Vietnam currently has pilot programs authorizing electric carts in 35 locations across the country. Approximately 3,500 vehicles are now serving tourists under this temporary arrangement.

The Ministry of Transport reports that this pilot phase has been successful. The electric vehicles improve the convenience and environmental impact of tourism activities. At the same time, their slow speed reduces safety risks.

Need for a legal framework

Despite positive results, there are challenges. Major General Le Xuan Duc of the Traffic Police Department notes that some unauthorized vehicles are operating without proper registration and inspection. Furthermore, managing these vehicles' operating zones and handling traffic violations has proven difficult.

To address these issues, the Ministry of Transport and the Ministry of Public Security are working on draft legislation that would incorporate electric vehicle management into Vietnam's Road Law and Law on Road Traffic Order and Safety.

Balancing concerns

The new draft laws have drawn a range of comments. Some urge caution in regulating electric vehicles, citing potential economic impact. Others advocate for swift action, calling for regulations, standards, and technology guidelines to manage the sector.

In response, Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha stressed the need for technical regulations and safety standards. He has also called for clearly defined operating zones for these vehicles and mandated driver's licenses.

The Ministry of Transport is studying global practices as it develops a comprehensive legal framework for electric vehicles. The Deputy Prime Minister emphasizes that Vietnam intends to recognize other countries' quality assessments and standards, creating a streamlined regulatory system.

He further emphasizes the need for the law to anticipate future transportation technologies, including those based on artificial intelligence.

The Deputy Prime Minister has asked relevant ministries to prepare guidance documents for swift implementation of these regulations upon the laws' passage. He affirmed that existing pilot programs would continue with enhanced quality and safety checks and strict operating zone enforcement.