Why Hanoians are hesitant to switch to electric motorbikes

Cost burden for low-income workers

All gasoline motorcycles will be banned from within Ring Road 1, which includes most of its downtown, from July 1, 2026, with the restriction expanding citywide by 2030. Nguyen Ngan, 43, rents a small room in Hanoi and works as a ride-hailing driver to support her two children living in her hometown. She works from sunrise to 2 a.m. the next day on her gasoline motorbike and says she fears losing her livelihood if she cannot switch to an electric vehicle.

Selling her motorbike might fetch VND5 million (US$190), while an electric model suitable for her work will cost around VND20 million, she fears. The difference is a huge burden considering her income, she says. "Whatever money I send to my children or spend to live here in Hanoi will now have to be recalculated and saved to buy the electric bike." Charging is another concern as her landlord does not allow it.

A newly announced subsidy might offer some relief though: People owning gasoline or diesel motorbikes are eligible for support of VND3-5 million, depending on income level, when switching to an electric motorbike priced VND15 million or more. Everyone can receive support for one vehicle until 2030. Hanoi also plans to waive registration and licensing fees for electric vehicles until the end of 2030.

A customer looking a electric motorbike model. Photo by VnExpress/Minh Quan

Performance challenges in extreme heat

For Dam Quoc Anh, 32, a teacher living within Ring Road 1, performance and safety outweigh financial concerns. He and his wife have been using two Yamaha motorbikes for the past eight years, commuting 20 to 30 kilometers daily.

He is worried about Hanoi’s harsh summers, when temperatures can exceed 42 degrees Celsius. He fears that prolonged exposure to heat could affect battery function and overall vehicle performance. Many ride-hailing drivers have reported that electric motorbikes overheat when used in direct sunlight for extended periods, resulting in reduced acceleration. While this may not be an issue for casual riders, it poses problems for those with heavy usage.

Some electric motorbikes lack built-in temperature displays, making it harder for users to monitor and adjust for overheating. However, manufacturers such as Yamaha and local brand Dat Bike now equip models with battery and motor temperature gauges, enabling users to adjust speed based on real-time feedback. Experts recommend avoiding full-throttle use in hot conditions, parking in shaded areas, and waiting 30 to 60 minutes after a ride before recharging the battery to allow it to cool down.

Tire repairs remain a challenge

Another concern for users is the difficulty of repairing flat tires. Most electric motorbikes have motors housed in the rear wheel, making repairs more complicated and often requiring the motor to be removed and electrical wiring disconnected.

A veteran repair technician said earlier Chinese-made models like the 133 or X-Men were easier to service, but modern electric bikes typically require specialized equipment to avoid damaging the motor during tire removal. Larger punctures may add 10–20 minutes to the repair time, which may also involve removing the trunk, disconnecting the battery and unfastening wiring.

A electric motorbike repair shop in Hanoi. Photo by VnExpress/Minh Quan

Some models such as the Honda CUV e: and Yamaha Neos feature rear wheels designed for easier removal. But most electric bikes still use rear-hub motors, limiting repair options at standard shops. Despite these issues, electric motorbikes are generally considered lower maintenance though their tires and brakes wear down faster due to heavier frames and faster acceleration. Brake systems often require replacement after 7,000–10,000 km as against 15,000–20,000 km for their gasoline counterparts.

Beyond individual obstacles, many Hanoians also argue that the transition deadline is too rushed. Public transport infrastructure remains underdeveloped, and there are doubts about whether the city's power grid can meet the charging needs of large residential communities.

They also point to inconsistencies between government policies and local building regulations. Although the government is encouraging electric vehicle use, many mini-apartments and even mid- to high-end condominiums ban electric bikes and their batteries due to fire risks.

Battery swapping models from companies like Honda and Selex Motor have drawn interest, but many users say that rental fees, battery quality and charging availability remain problematic. Environmental concerns over battery recycling and waste management have yet to be fully addressed.