Amid the world’s transportation sector’s dynamic shift towards emission-free vehicles, the Vietnamese market marches to the beat of its own drum, with gasoline vehicles still holding dominance.
According to statistics from the Vietnam Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (VAMA) and data from official importers, the majority of the over 80,000 vehicles sold in the first quarter of 2025 were traditional gasoline-powered cars. Models such as the Ford Ranger, Mazda CX-5, Toyota Vios, Hyundai Accent, and Mitsubishi Xpander continue to top the best-selling charts across the market.
Among these, the Ford Ranger led the market in January 2025, with over 2,000 units delivered to customers. The Mazda CX-5 has dominated the CUV-C segment for several consecutive months. Familiar brands like Toyota, Mazda, Ford, and Mitsubishi, associated with gasoline vehicles, currently account for more than 60% of the retail market share in Vietnam. So, what are the reasons behind the continued preference for gasoline vehicles among Vietnamese consumers?
Electric vehicle infrastructure remains fragmented and lacking in coordination
Although many businesses are actively investing in charging station networks, the distribution of these stations is still concentrated in major urban areas. In rural and remote regions, where inter-provincial travel is common, electric vehicles cannot yet meet the demands. For instance, one cannot take an electric car on a cross-country trip in Vietnam as charging stations are scarce just a few dozen kilometers outside of the main highways.
Predictable ownership costs and readily available spare parts
In addition to their accessible price points, gasoline vehicles also offer significant advantages in maintenance and repairs due to a well-established after-sales service ecosystem. Consumers are familiar with their operation, fuel consumption has been optimized, and replacement parts are readily available nationwide.
Furthermore, gasoline vehicles tend to hold their value better in the used car market, while electric vehicles still carry higher risks regarding depreciation and battery lifespan, factors that make prospective buyers hesitant.
Consumer habits and a “better safe than sorry” mindset
For most first-time car buyers, “familiarity and ease of use” remain the top criteria. Gasoline engines have been a part of the Vietnamese landscape for decades, and everything from the driving sensation to refueling and operational procedures are deeply ingrained in consumer habits.
Transitioning to a completely new type of vehicle, such as electric cars, not only requires knowledge but also demands a period of adjustment, which not all consumers are willing to undergo.
How much longer will the “gasoline vehicle era” last?
According to industry experts, while the “greening” of the automotive sector is inevitable, internal combustion engines will still have a market in Vietnam for at least the next 5 to 10 years. This transition depends on critical factors such as new tax and fee policies, the extent of charging infrastructure coverage, and the actual performance and cost of electric/hybrid vehicles after a period of use.
TH (Tuoitrethudo)
A ‘Rosy’ Month for Pickup Trucks
The pickup truck segment witnessed a boost in sales across all brands. While some models sold twice as much as the previous month, the Ford Ranger remains the undisputed leader.
Honda Reaches 500 Million Motorcycles Produced Globally: A Milestone Achievement
Honda, a renowned name in the automotive industry, has achieved an impressive milestone. After 76 years of dedication and innovation since the release of their first motorcycle, the Dream D-Type in 1949, Honda has proudly reached a global cumulative production volume of 500 million motorcycles and scooters.
“The Green Future: Igniting the Vietnamese Spirit”
VinFast is proud to announce the launch of its third annual “Vietnamese Spirit – For a Green Future” campaign, offering unprecedented benefits and discounts on a grand scale. This year’s promotions are bigger and better than ever, with incentives worth thousands of billions of VND.
The Korean Auto Industry Reels from US Tariffs: A Government Intervention
To alleviate the pressure on car sales in the US due to rising tariffs, South Korea has no choice but to devise strategies to stimulate domestic demand for car manufacturers.
The Electric City: Japanese Start-up Unveils a Compact Urban Runabout
The electric vehicle revolution has caught some traditional Japanese automakers off-guard, but a new breed of domestic start-ups is rising to the challenge. These agile newcomers are showcasing their innovative prowess and adaptability, leaving their established counterparts trailing in their wake.
