Beyond environmental goals, the plan is designed to preserve everyday routines for the vast majority of residents, especially those using compliant petrol motorbikes.

Phased rollout to avoid disruption

Under the plan, the LEZ pilot will begin on July 1, 2026, and be implemented in three stages. Local authorities say the roadmap will allow time for public adaptation and policy adjustments based on real-world conditions.

In the initial phase, the pilot will be limited to 11 core streets in Hoan Kiem ward, operating only during weekend hours. The designated area largely overlaps with the existing pedestrian zone around Hoan Kiem Lake, which has been in stable operation for years.

The second phase, due to start in early 2027, will expand the pilot area to include Hoan Kiem and Cua Nam wards, covering 14 streets. A third phase, scheduled for early 2028, will extend the low-emission zone across nine wards within Ring Road 1.

Authorities describe the approach as cautious and adaptive, with continuous assessment of public response and infrastructure capacity. The policy is not expected to involve sweeping or abrupt bans that could disrupt livelihoods.

Petrol motorbikes remain widely usable

The limited pilot scope means petrol motorbikes will continue to operate freely across most of Hanoi, including the majority of districts and roads outside the LEZ area. This is particularly relevant ahead of the summer of 2026, when high mobility and reliability are essential.

Importantly, the LEZ policy is not aimed at restricting all personal vehicles but at gradually phasing out outdated motorbikes that fail to meet minimum emissions standards (below Euro 2).

Millions of petrol motorbikes currently in circulation already meet Euro 3 standards, which account for a large share of Hanoi’s traffic. These newer models feature improved combustion systems, electronic fuel injection, and optimised exhausts.

As a result, compliant petrol motorbikes will continue to operate normally. The policy’s core objective is to remove heavily polluting, outdated vehicles, not to eliminate petrol motorbikes altogether.

Modern models, including widely used lines such as Honda SH, SH Mode, and Air Blade, have met Euro 3 standards since 2017. Even if stricter criteria are introduced, existing engine platforms are set to remain viable with only minor adjustments.

Overall, the updated roadmap signals a more balanced approach by policymakers, addressing public concerns while maintaining momentum toward environmental goals. It also underscores the need to consider the large number of residents who rely on compliant petrol motorbikes for daily transport in Hanoi.

Hanoi presses ahead with low-emission zones, tightening vehicle emission controls

VOV.VN - Starting July 1, 2026, the Hanoi People's Committee will pilot low-emission zones in parts of Ring Road 1, introducing phased emission controls on cars and motorbikes to curb air pollution and accelerate the shift toward greener urban mobility.