Vietnamese media reports that the Ministry of Transport of Vietnam has recently issued Notice No. 09/2024. Effective from October 5th, any newly constructed rest areas along highways, national highways, and provincial highways spanning an area exceeding 5,000 square meters must be outfitted with electric vehicle charging stations. This initiative is aimed at fostering the growth of Vietnam's electric vehicle sector while enhancing long-distance travel convenience.
Under the new directives, both Class I and Class II rest areas are mandated to install charging stations and ensure that electric vehicle charging bays constitute 10% of the total parking capacity. Moreover, the "Notice" stipulates that operational rest areas must finalize maintenance and upgrade projects for facilities such as electric vehicle charging infrastructure and parking lots in adherence to prescribed standards by January 1, 2027.
Nevertheless, despite the mandate for charging station installation, regulatory authorities have yet to clearly define the standards for charging infrastructure, including specifications for fast or slow charging, and whether DC or AC charging will be utilized. The implementation of this policy shift is poised to exert a significant influence on Vietnam's electric vehicle market.
Vietnam-based electric vehicle manufacturer VinFast has pledged to establish the most comprehensive network of charging stations across the country, encompassing 85 out of 80 cities. While some European luxury carmakers have also deployed public charging facilities in Vietnam, their number significantly lags behind VinFast's initiative.
Currently, automotive manufacturers operating in the Vietnamese market remain cautious, with many adopting a wait-and-see approach and prioritizing the promotion of hybrid vehicles. However, with the ongoing enhancement of Vietnam's transportation infrastructure and the introduction of new regulations by the Ministry of Transport, it is anticipated that more car manufacturers will venture into the electric vehicle market in the future.