HCM City is accelerating the modernisation of its public transport network by integrating zero-emission electric buses, urban rail, river buses and micro-mobility into a data-driven system.
The city is moving from traditional operations to a smart transit network designed to reduce environmental impact, improve efficiency and connect different transport modes.
The changes are built on a single digital architecture.
At the HCM City Public Transport Management Centre, data from GPS, electronic transport orders (eLVC), onboard cameras and validation devices feed automated management systems including eBMS and GoAFC.
More than 100 subsidised bus routes already operate through electronic transport orders. Dispatchers can track bus movements, analyse timetables and resolve disruptions as they occur.
By 2030, the city plans to work with international research institutions to deploy artificial intelligence and Digital Twin technology. The systems will be piloted on key routes, including Route 150, to forecast demand and adjust service intervals across transport modes.
Digital solutions are already changing daily journeys.
The official MultiGo app shows vehicle arrivals in real time, helps users plan intermodal journeys and supports digital payments on buses, the metro, Saigon River Bus and the public electric bike network.
The app has been downloaded more than 540,000 times. It supports the city's vision of one account for multiple transport modes.
The MultiPass system accepts contactless payments through EMV bank cards, QR codes and e-wallets. More than 9.5 million transactions were recorded in August.
Public electric bicycle stations at metro entrances and river bus piers help passengers reach transit services and continue their journeys after getting off. These transfers produce no engine emissions.
The digital changes also cover social benefits.
Older residents and students verify their eligibility for free fares through VNeID and citizen accounts. The exemption applies across 134 supported bus routes.
Zero-emission electric buses, charging depots, river transport and micro-mobility options are being combined into the city's new public transport network.
Sources: Viet Nam News
