Vietnam’s pledge to reach net-zero emissions by 2050 has thrust green transportation into the national spotlight, with electric vehicles (EVs) leading the charge. But experts warn that EVs alone will not get the country across the finish line. A complementary path to decarbonization As part of the COP26 commitment, the Government plans to phase out fossil fuel vehicles by 2040 and push for full adoption of zero-emission cars, buses, and motorcycles by 2050. With major cities like HCMC and Hanoi grappling with air pollution and congestion, green transportation such as EVs are seen as vital solutions. Much of the early focus has been on electric buses and taxis in urban areas, with domestic automaker VinFast dominating the sector. However, relying on a single technology and a single producer could slow overall progress, said Dr. Pham Van Dai, senior researcher at Fulbright School of Public Policy and Management (FSPPM) during a workshop on technology and policy for green transportation in Vietnam, hosted by FSPPM on March 25. “We must go beyond electric cars if we want to achieve a true net-zero future,” he emphasized. He added that hydrogen can support heavier transport or long-haul routes where batteries may struggle with range […]