Harmony and sharing

(PLVN) - At a seminar held in Hanoi on December 24th, a representative of a ride-hailing company suggested that drivers need strong financial support from the government to switch from gasoline to electric vehicles; in other words, substantial financial assistance. This has led to public questioning: Does this ride-hailing company itself adhere to the principle of "harmonious benefits, shared risks"? Does it provide financial support to its drivers, whom it often refers to as "partners"?

Previously, Hanoi decided to pilot a Low Emission Zone (LEZ), prohibiting gasoline-powered motorbikes from circulating in certain areas of Ring Road 1 from July 2026. The city is also drafting a policy to support people and drivers in switching from gasoline motorbikes to electric motorbikes.

According to official figures from the Department of Construction, Hanoi has approximately 120,000 ride-hailing motorbikes, 88% of which are gasoline-powered. There are three popular delivery platforms in the capital city.

According to the current draft, the proposed support level for people to switch from gasoline-powered motorbikes to electric motorbikes is 20% of the vehicle's value, up to a maximum of 5 million VND. Additionally, a 30% interest rate subsidy is offered for installment purchases over a maximum of 12 months. With the upcoming LEZ pilot program, representatives from the Department of Construction believe that the demand for delivery and transportation by ride-hailing services within Ring Road 1 will be minimally affected, as there are already approximately 14,000-15,000 electric motorbikes operating as delivery drivers. The crucial step now is for ride-hailing companies to coordinate and adjust their applications to ensure vehicles meet the requirements for entering low-emission zones.

In a document sent to the Department of Construction and at a recent seminar, a representative of a transportation company proposed that the city provide at least 10 million VND per driver to purchase a vehicle, which is double the amount proposed in the draft. According to a survey conducted by the company over the past 2-3 weeks, updating information on drivers' readiness to switch vehicles, the results indicate that "most drivers are hesitant to switch to electric vehicles." According to the company representative, the high cost of purchasing a vehicle is a barrier for 76% of drivers. A quality electric motorbike suitable for transporting people, goods, and long distances costs 30-40 million VND. "Meanwhile, 70% of drivers consider transportation on the platform as their main job. Forcing a switch without accompanying support policies will put significant pressure on them and their families," the representative stated.

Representatives from the company also proposed a policy of providing interest-free loans for 24 months, and support for registration and license plate fees. In addition, they argued that "exempting or refunding value-added tax and personal income tax for electric vehicle drivers will encourage them to switch."

The proposals from the representatives of this ride-hailing company are worth listening to, as principle dictates that what benefits the people should be done. However, we also need to consider whether the overall budget can support that amount of money, and whether the amount of support given to ride-hailing drivers will also benefit many residents in the LEZ area. Another important point is the principle of "harmonious benefits, shared risks" in business. Ride-hailing companies generate significant revenue from their drivers and the needs of the people, so they should also consider providing support to their drivers, adhering to the principle of harmony and sharing.

Source: https://baophapluat.vn/hai-hoa-va-chia-se.html