Hanoi to evaluate motorbike emissions starting 2024

The Hanoi Department of Natural Resources and the Environment said authorities would build frameworks and issue plans to manage motorbike emissions in 2023, as well as look into “area classification” measures to protect air quality and restrict motorbikes.

In the 2024-2025 period, Hanoi would organize yearly emission evaluation trials for motorbikes that have been used for at least five years. The city is also looking into using stamps to differentiate such vehicles.

During this period, Hanoi would also apply measures to identify areas based on emission standards.

After trials are completed, starting 2026, motorbikes used for at least three years would have to undergo regular emission evaluation, and those that fail to meet emission standards would see restricted access. Hanoi would also consider charging vehicles for their emissions.

The capital would build a motorbike emission management system with 170 stations, either mobile or stationery. Traffic surveillance cameras would also be used to detect vehicles that spew black fumes.

Depending on circumstances and different phases of the plan, Hanoi may make adjustments to it. For example, during the first phase, when people are not yet used to regular emission evaluation, the city may only perform targeted evaluation at first. Once there’s sufficient infrastructure and public transport support, the city would consider charging emission fees for vehicles too.

Regarding vehicles that are either too old or do not meet emission standards, Hanoi would have support policies for vehicle owners, using funds from the national budget or from multiple sources to help owners switch vehicles or find other ways to make a living.

A survey by the Hanoi environment department on 3,800 motorbike owners revealed that 86% of respondents support emission evaluation. Evaluation fees would fall around VND30,000-50,000 for each evaluation session, at a frequency of once per year. A total 29% of respondents said they would bring their old, dilapidated motorbikes to collection points.

Previously in August 2021, Hanoi performed motorbike emission evaluation sessions to create scientific foundations for measures to improve air quality.

Random emission checks on over 5,200 vehicles used for at least five years showed that they tended to release more emissions than they should.

The program has also introduced financial support plans to help people get rid of old motorbikes and switch to new ones.

Hanoi has over 7.6 million vehicles within the city by July, including over a million cars, around 6.5 million motorbikes and 180,000 electric motorbikes, according to data from the Department of Transport.