In a move reminiscent of the tuktuks of Thailand, Ho Chi Minh City has embarked on a pilot project that introduces 70 electric buggies for sightseeing around the city center. Approved by the Prime Minister, these buggies are part of a national pilot in 35 localities, aiming to enhance the urban tourist experience.
Capacity and Cost: Each buggy can carry up to 8 passengers, with fares ranging from VND 120,000 to VND 250,000 for a 30-minute ride.
Operating Hours: These vehicles are available daily from 6 AM to midnight, with the pilot running until the end of 2025.
While the initiative has been well-received, there are challenges such as the lack of designated stops and limited operational zones, currently restricted to Districts 1, 3, and 5. Plans are underway to expand these services to additional districts and possibly include special tours, like evening excursions in the Chợ Lớn area, akin to tuktuk services in Thailand.
Given the positive response, the city has approved the addition of 130 more buggies.
By addressing the current limitations and expanding the network of routes and services, Ho Chi Minh City aims to make its electric buggy system a cornerstone of urban tourism, providing a novel and enjoyable way to explore the city's rich cultural and historical landscape.