Hanoi to Ban All Gas Motorcycles from 2026: What It Means for Citizens and EV Brands Like VinFast & Selex

Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, has announced a bold step toward a greener future: starting July 1, 2026, all internal combustion engine (ICE) motorcycles will be banned from the city center. The restriction will expand in 2027 to cover even more areas of the city. A ban on ICE cars is also in the works, although a firm date has yet to be confirmed.

This move is part of Vietnam’s long-term goal to eliminate all ICE two-wheelers nationwide by 2045. The change is crucial in cities like Hanoi, where millions of gas-powered motorcycles and scooters contribute heavily to air and noise pollution. These reforms aim to reduce smog levels and create a quieter, cleaner urban environment.

However, the transition won’t come easy for the average Vietnamese citizen. With an average monthly income of just €512, many families now face the financial burden of replacing their motorcycles with electric two-wheelers within a year. Though the government is reportedly exploring incentive programs, none have been officially announced yet.

Still, the policy shift is expected to boost electric motorcycle sales, with local manufacturers like VinFast and Selex Motors likely to reap the benefits. Selex’s battery swapping system offers a practical solution to the current lack of widespread charging infrastructure.

As we approach 2026, this bold initiative will not only shape Hanoi’s urban mobility but also redefine the landscape for Vietnam’s EV market.