Can electric bikes save Vietnam’s most polluted cities?

Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City rank among the world’s most polluted cities. The millions of petrol motorbikes are huge contributors to the pollution. Vietnam’s government now says it has the answer: electric bikes.

Vietnam is betting on one of the boldest electric mobility plans, pushing more than 70 million riders to switch from petrol motorbikes to e-bikes, starting in the capital. The aim is to clear the air - but the transition raises big questions about cost, charging, and whether riders are ready to give up the machines that power their daily lives and define their identities.

In this Asia Specific podcast, host Mariko Oi speak to the BBC's Asia Business Reporter Nick Marsh, who had spent some time covering the EV industry in China. Also on the podcast is BBC's Senior Journalist Sen Nguyen who grew up in Vietnam.

The conversation explores why motorbikes are so central to Vietnamese culture and whether e-bikes can work in crowded cities and rural areas alike. We also look at the fierce competition in the e-bike market in which Chinese manufacturers dominate, and ask whether Vietnam’s VinFast can become the BYD of two-wheelers.

Asia Pacific, unpacked by those who know it best. Bringing you essential insights and conversations on the stories shaping the region - an economic powerhouse, geo-political flashpoint and the birthplace of global cultural trends.

Hear Asian perspectives on international issues and in-depth analysis on news from a region that’s home to nearly 2.5 billion people.Whether it is the latest on trade between the US and China, the rise and fall of political dynasties in Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines, or South Korea’s K-pop inspired soft power strategy, we find out what key players are thinking and dive into the stories that matter.

Hosted in Singapore by Mariko Oi, alongside BBC experts in Beijing, Bangkok, and beyond – listen to new episodes twice a week. Episodes of Asia Specific are also available on YouTube, here: https://bit.ly/4iJyeVt

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