Brian Jeffrey
The Vietnam Motor Show is collaboratively organized by various automotive associations, including VAMA, VIVA, and VAMM.
During the opening ceremony, Deputy Minister Truong Thanh Hoai emphasized that Vietnam currently boasts over 5 million cars, with passenger vehicles making up 67%, translating to 50 cars per 1,000 individuals. He noted, however, that this figure is still relatively low for a nation of 100 million, indicating substantial potential for growth in the automotive sector.
He added that rising per capita income in Vietnam has spurred increasing demand for automobiles and motorcycles. The Vietnam Motor Show is a key annual event where consumers can discover cutting-edge innovations from various automotive brands, further supporting the Vietnamese automobile industry’s development.
Nakano Keita, the Chairman of VAMA, reflected on the previous year as difficult for the automotive market but recognized that support from the government has facilitated recovery and growth in the sector.
He mentioned that both imported and locally manufactured vehicles are now readily available, with a variety of new models arriving and prices decreasing significantly. Moreover, several factories are now operational, with a trend toward local assembly of imported vehicles.
Recent data from VAMA highlights a remarkable uptick in vehicle sales in September, reaching 36,585 units—a 45% rise from August and 44% higher compared to the same month last year. This represents the highest monthly sales in the initial nine months of the year. Total sales for the first three quarters were recorded at 225,583 vehicles, up slightly by 6.94% from the previous year.
Mr. Nakano noted a growing consumer focus on advanced technologies, safety, and the overall driving experience. Additionally, the government’s commitment to achieving Net Zero by 2050 is encouraging car manufacturers to quickly implement new technologies aimed at reducing CO2 emissions.
He expressed hope that the government would consider a comprehensive approach and policies to promote eco-friendly vehicles, steering the automotive sector toward sustainable growth.
The Vietnam Motor Show, the premier exhibition of the nation’s automotive industry, has been held biennially since 2002. This year’s theme, “Technology Opens a Green Future,” showcases 19 car brands and related industry players, featuring over 200 vehicle models, including around 15 making their first appearance at the event.
A standout feature of this year’s show is the presentation of green vehicles from both Japanese and Chinese manufacturers. Among the hybrid offerings are models like the Honda Civic e:HEV RS, Honda CRV e: HEV, and Toyota Camry hybrid, as well as electric vehicles such as the Skoda Enyaq and BYD Han.
However, the absence of luxury brands like Mercedes-Benz, Lexus, Audi, and Volvo, which had previously participated, was noteworthy. Prominent companies such as Hyundai, VinFast, and Ford were also missing from the event.
