The Vietnam Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers (VAMM) has proposed initiating motorbike emissions testing in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City by 2027, aiming to familiarize the public with the practice before expanding it nationwide.

The association suggested testing older motorbikes - those manufactured before 2010 - using Level 1 emission standards (CO 4.5% and HC 1,500 ppm), which are less stringent than Level 2. This approach considers the financial challenges for low-income users, particularly since pre-2010 motorbikes were not subject to technical standards at the time of production.

Motorbikes manufactured between 2010 and mid-2017 already adhere to Euro 2 standards, while those produced after July 2017 comply with Euro 3 standards. These vehicles can be tested against the stricter Level 2 standards.

Infrastructure readiness and gradual rollout

VAMM estimates that its 1,768 member-operated maintenance centers nationwide are capable of handling emissions testing, with a capacity of up to 34.6 million vehicles annually. However, by 2027, Vietnam’s motorbike fleet is projected to reach 45.3 million, with 31.4 million of those requiring testing due to being over five years old.

Testing will begin in urban areas like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City - locations with significant air pollution and sufficient maintenance infrastructure - before expanding to industrial cities by 2030 and nationwide by 2032.

Drawing comparisons to Taiwan, VAMM noted that emissions testing began in Taipei in 1993, expanded to other major cities in 1994, and eventually covered the entire country by 2008. VAMM believes a phased approach will reduce resistance and ensure smooth implementation.

With air quality deteriorating in major urban areas, introducing emissions checks for motorbikes is seen as a pressing issue. VAMM emphasized that this program will target pollution hotspots first, as these cities also have the highest concentration of maintenance centers equipped for emissions testing.

By starting emissions testing in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, authorities aim to reduce urban pollution while giving citizens time to adapt to the new regulations before the program expands across Vietnam.

N. Huyen