Vietnam Insider

Vietnamese electric mobility company Green SM has officially entered India, launching its all electric taxi service in one of the world’s fastest growing transportation markets and marking another milestone in the international expansion of Vietnam’s emerging EV ecosystem.

The launch took place on June 5, coinciding with World Environment Day, as Green SM seeks to position itself as a provider of sustainable transportation solutions in a country that is rapidly accelerating its transition toward cleaner mobility.

India becomes the fifth market for Green SM after Vietnam, Laos, Indonesia, and the Philippines, highlighting the company’s ambitions to build a regional electric transportation network centered around vehicles manufactured by Vietnamese automaker VinFast.

The service will initially operate in the Delhi National Capital Region (Delhi NCR), one of India’s largest urban areas and a key battleground for ride hailing and mobility providers. Green SM said expansion into additional locations will follow in phases based on market demand.

Unlike traditional taxi services, the fleet will consist entirely of VinFast Limo Green vehicles, a seven seat electric model developed specifically for passenger transportation services. The vehicle forms part of VinFast’s broader strategy to expand beyond vehicle sales and establish a complete electric mobility ecosystem.

Green SM says its premium service will include complimentary drinking water, wet towels, and a range of safety features designed to enhance passenger confidence. These include the company’s Secure to Safe (S2S) system, which incorporates interior and exterior cameras, AI powered monitoring technology, and emergency support functions for both drivers and passengers.

Drivers operating on the platform have also undergone specialized training covering electric vehicle operation, road safety, and customer service standards.

Customers in India can book rides through the Green SM mobile application, contact the company’s call center, or hail vehicles directly. To attract early adopters, the company is offering promotional discounts of up to 50 percent on app based bookings during the launch period.

The launch event brought together representatives from Green SM, VinFast, Indian government agencies, and diplomatic missions, underscoring the growing economic ties between Vietnam and India, particularly in the green technology and sustainable transportation sectors.

Green SM also announced the addition of five strategic partners from the transportation, tourism, technology, and services industries to its Green Alliance Frontier initiative, a platform designed to connect businesses committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility.

India represents one of the most significant opportunities for electric mobility companies globally. With severe urban air pollution challenges, supportive government policies, and a rapidly expanding middle class, the country has become a major target market for EV manufacturers and mobility operators seeking long term growth.

For Green SM, the move signals more than a geographic expansion. It reflects the growing international ambitions of Vietnamese companies looking to compete in global green technology sectors. As VinFast continues expanding its presence in overseas markets, Green SM’s launch in India provides another test of whether Vietnam’s electric mobility model can gain traction beyond Southeast Asia.

Founded in 2023, Green SM has quickly become one of Vietnam’s most recognizable electric transportation brands. Its entry into India marks the company’s largest international expansion to date and places it in direct competition within one of the world’s most dynamic mobility markets.

Vietnamese police have detained dozens of foreign nationals after uncovering what authorities believe may be a sophisticated criminal operation involving drug use and suspected online fraud activities in Ho Chi Minh City.

The investigation began after local residents reported unusual activity at a lodging facility in Thu Duc, a rapidly developing district on the eastern side of Vietnam’s largest city. According to police, a group of foreign nationals had rented rooms for extended periods while maintaining an unusually low profile, rarely interacting with outsiders and typically leaving the premises only at night.

Acting on the reports, authorities carried out a late night raid on June 3, discovering five Malaysian nationals inside the property. During the search, officers allegedly found suspected narcotics, drug paraphernalia, and evidence suggesting illegal drug use.

The operation quickly expanded as investigators uncovered signs that the group’s activities may have extended beyond narcotics offenses.

Inside the premises, police reportedly found equipment resembling a small scale online call center, including computers, networking devices, and materials believed to be connected to telecommunications scams. Authorities also seized fake documents and props designed to imitate foreign law enforcement agencies, along with prepared call scripts allegedly used to contact potential victims.

Investigators said they discovered signage, backdrops, and other materials resembling police offices in Malaysia, raising suspicions that the group may have been involved in impersonation scams targeting individuals overseas.

Police also found discarded electronic equipment in nearby areas, which investigators believe may have been abandoned in an attempt to destroy evidence.

Further searches conducted the same night led authorities to another hotel and business location on a nearby street, where 21 additional Malaysian nationals were located.

According to preliminary testing results, 18 individuals among those detained tested positive for illegal drugs.

Authorities are now interviewing those involved and working to determine each person’s role within the suspected operation. Investigators are particularly focused on identifying any organizers or ringleaders who may have coordinated activities across multiple locations.

While the investigation remains ongoing, the case highlights growing concerns across Southeast Asia over transnational cybercrime networks, many of which use temporary accommodation, online communication infrastructure, and international recruitment to conduct fraudulent activities across borders.

Ho Chi Minh City police said the operation forms part of a broader 45 day nationwide campaign aimed at cracking down on organized crime, drug offenses, and other serious criminal activities.

Authorities have not yet announced whether formal charges will be filed, and further details are expected as the investigation progresses.

Authorities in central Vietnam are investigating an incident involving a foreign tourist whose choice of clothing in Hoi An’s UNESCO listed Ancient Town has triggered widespread debate online about cultural respect and appropriate attire at heritage sites.

The incident gained national attention after a video circulated on social media showing a foreign woman walking through Hoi An while wearing a Vietnamese áo dài in a manner many local viewers considered inappropriate.

According to local officials, authorities in Hoi An Ward, now part of Da Nang City, have launched an inquiry into the incident following strong public reaction. Officials said they are gathering information and will provide further details once the review is completed.

The video, which has been shared tens of thousands of times across Vietnamese social media platforms, shows a local woman approaching the tourist and politely explaining that her outfit was not appropriate for the cultural setting. The local resident reportedly enlisted the help of a tour guide to translate her concerns and encourage the visitor to dress more suitably while touring the historic district.

The exchange has resonated with many Vietnamese viewers, who praised the local woman’s calm and respectful approach. Rather than confronting the visitor aggressively, she sought to explain the cultural significance of the garment and why many people found the presentation inappropriate.

At the center of the controversy is the áo dài, Vietnam’s iconic national dress. Widely recognized as a symbol of Vietnamese culture and identity, the traditional outfit is typically worn with long trousers and is often associated with formal occasions, education, and cultural celebrations.

Many social media users argued that the issue was not simply about fashion but about respecting local customs while visiting one of Vietnam’s most culturally significant destinations.

The incident has also reignited a broader conversation about cultural awareness among international travelers. As Vietnam continues to attract record numbers of foreign visitors, local authorities have increasingly emphasized the importance of respecting cultural norms at historic sites, religious landmarks, and heritage destinations.

Officials in Hoi An say they regularly remind visitors about appropriate attire and behavior while exploring the Ancient Town, one of the country’s most popular tourism attractions and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In an unusual move, local authorities have also indicated they may formally recognize the resident who intervened, viewing her actions as a positive example of protecting and promoting Vietnamese cultural values through respectful communication rather than confrontation.

While the investigation continues, the episode has become one of Vietnam’s most widely discussed tourism related stories of the week, highlighting the delicate balance between welcoming international visitors and preserving the cultural traditions that make destinations such as Hoi An unique.

Authorities in Vietnam are investigating an unusual road rage incident after a foreign national allegedly attacked a truck driver with a metal bar in broad daylight, causing damage to the vehicle and sparking widespread discussion on social media.

The incident occurred on Thursday morning in Quy Nhơn, a coastal city in central Vietnam, after a confrontation between a motorcycle rider and the driver of a tractor trailer truck escalated unexpectedly.

According to local authorities, the truck driver, identified as a 39 year old man, was traveling along Đống Đa Street at approximately 8:50 a.m. when a foreign man riding a motorcycle suddenly moved in front of the vehicle and forced it to stop.

The driver later told authorities that he initially believed the man was asking for directions and therefore pulled over. He also stated that no traffic collision had occurred between the two before the confrontation.

Video footage that quickly spread across Vietnamese social media appears to show the foreign national approaching the truck’s cabin while carrying a long metal object. The individual allegedly struck toward the driver through the cabin area, prompting the driver to retreat deeper into the vehicle to avoid being hit.

The footage also shows the suspect using the metal bar to strike the truck’s windshield, causing damage to the vehicle.

As the individual attempted to leave the scene on his motorcycle, the truck driver reportedly knocked the motorcycle over and called for assistance from nearby residents, who helped detain the man until authorities arrived.

Local officials said preliminary investigations suggest the incident may have stemmed from a dispute that arose while both parties were participating in traffic. However, police have not yet released detailed findings regarding the exact cause of the confrontation.

The case has attracted significant public attention in Vietnam after videos of the incident circulated widely online, raising concerns about aggressive behavior on the roads and the potential consequences of escalating traffic disputes.

Authorities in Quy Nhơn are continuing their investigation and have indicated that the individuals involved will be dealt with in accordance with Vietnamese law once the facts of the case have been fully established.

Most travelers visiting Vietnam come for the food, beaches, mountains, and bustling cities. Few expect to cook an egg using nothing but geothermal energy bubbling up from deep underground.

Yet that is exactly what visitors can do at Hội Vân Hot Spring in Gia Lai Province, where naturally heated mineral water is hot enough to boil eggs in just minutes. Tucked away amid the rural landscapes of Vietnam’s Central Highlands, the site has quietly become one of the country’s most unusual travel experiences.

Located about 40 kilometers from Gia Lai’s provincial center, Hội Vân is instantly recognizable by the clouds of steam that rise continuously from its surface. While the spring lacks dramatic waterfalls or spectacular mountain scenery, it attracts visitors for something far more unexpected: the chance to witness the Earth’s natural heat at work and even use it to prepare food.

The hot spring is far from a modern tourist attraction. Historical records suggest it has been known for centuries. Vietnam’s famous Nguyễn Dynasty geographical work Đại Nam Nhất Thống Chí described a steaming hot water source in the area, where geothermal water emerged from rocky terrain before cooling and flowing into nearby streams. Later, respected scholar Quách Tấn documented the spring in his writings on Bình Định Province, describing bubbling water, rising steam, and temperatures high enough to scald skin near the center of the pool.

Remarkably, visitors today encounter much the same scene described generations ago. The spring continues to release hot mineral water year round, creating an almost surreal landscape where steam drifts across open countryside.

For many visitors, the highlight is the opportunity to cook eggs directly in the spring. Without gas, electricity, or firewood, eggs are placed in baskets or mesh bags and lowered into the hottest parts of the water. After about eight to ten minutes, they emerge perfectly soft boiled. A few minutes longer produces a firmer texture.

What makes the experience especially appealing is its simplicity. Travelers are not merely observing a natural phenomenon but actively interacting with it. The novelty of eating food cooked entirely by geothermal heat has made the activity increasingly popular among both local visitors and domestic tourists.

Many first time visitors arrive skeptical. Some assume the stories are exaggerated tourism marketing until they witness the bubbling water firsthand and retrieve freshly cooked eggs themselves. For many, the experience becomes one of the most memorable parts of their visit.

The spring has long been woven into local life. Residents recall how earlier generations would collect hot water from the site, particularly during colder months when home water heating systems were uncommon. The spring’s temperature remains remarkably consistent throughout the year, with steam becoming even more visible during hot weather.

Local residents also believe the geothermal activity may be linked to ancient volcanic processes beneath the region. Although no obvious volcanic features remain today, the heat source continues to operate naturally, feeding the spring with mineral rich water from underground.

One of the site’s enduring mysteries is the presence of fish despite the high temperatures. Locals explain that the hottest water is concentrated in specific geothermal vents, while cooler streams continuously flow into the area and mix with the hot water, creating conditions where aquatic life can survive.

Like many geothermal destinations around the world, Hội Vân is also surrounded by folklore and stories of healing. Historical accounts from the French colonial period describe growing numbers of people traveling to the spring after reports that bathing in its waters helped relieve certain skin conditions. Word of these alleged benefits spread widely, drawing visitors from across the region.

Over time, local legends added further intrigue. Stories circulated of divine intervention and miraculous recoveries, transforming the spring into a destination associated not only with natural wonder but also with spiritual significance. While such claims remain part of local folklore and have not been verified by modern scientific research, they continue to contribute to the site’s enduring appeal.

Today, visitors come primarily for relaxation, curiosity, and the opportunity to experience one of Vietnam’s more unusual natural attractions. Some soak their feet in the warm water, others enjoy the peaceful rural setting, and many leave with photos of eggs cooked entirely by the Earth’s natural heat.

The growing popularity of the spring has also created new opportunities for local communities. Small businesses now sell eggs, refreshments, and local dishes to visitors, helping generate additional income while supporting tourism development in the area.

As travelers increasingly seek authentic experiences beyond Vietnam’s best known destinations, Hội Vân offers something refreshingly different. It combines geology, history, local culture, and a touch of mystery in a single destination. In a country famous for its food, there may be few culinary experiences more memorable than cooking an egg using heat that has been rising from beneath the Earth’s surface for centuries.

As Vietnam rolls out E10 gasoline nationwide, major automakers say drivers have little reason to worry. From Toyota and Hyundai to Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen, manufacturers are confirming that most modern vehicles can safely run on the new fuel without affecting performance, reliability, or warranty coverage.

If you’ve filled up your car in Vietnam recently, you’ve probably heard more people talking about E10.

The new fuel, which contains 10% ethanol blended with 90% conventional gasoline, is gradually replacing traditional fuel options as part of Vietnam’s push to reduce emissions and improve energy security.

For many drivers, however, one question has overshadowed everything else:

Can my car actually use it?

According to a growing list of automakers, the answer is yes.

Most Modern Vehicles Are Ready

Over the past week, major manufacturers operating in Vietnam have published compatibility guidance following requests from authorities for clearer information about E10 fuel.

Toyota Vietnam says all Toyota vehicles produced since 1997 can use E10 safely. The company notes that the fuel does not affect engine durability, vehicle safety, maintenance costs, or repair requirements compared with conventional gasoline.

The reassurance isn’t limited to Toyota.

Brands including Kia Vietnam, Mazda Vietnam, Hyundai Thanh Cong, and Ford Vietnam have all confirmed that their current vehicle lineups are compatible with E10 fuel.

For Hyundai owners, the company says vehicles produced from 2005 onward can safely use the new fuel.

What About European Cars?

European brands are largely offering the same message.

Volkswagen Vietnam says E10 should not affect engine performance or long term reliability when sourced from reputable fuel stations and combined with routine maintenance.

Mercedes-Benz Vietnam has also confirmed compatibility for most of its vehicles, although some older models produced in the early 2000s and certain vehicles manufactured before 1990 may require different fuel specifications.

Drivers uncertain about compatibility are advised to check the fuel information label inside the fuel door or consult the owner’s manual.

Could E10 Actually Improve Efficiency?

One of the more surprising findings comes from previous testing conducted by Toyota Vietnam in partnership with researchers in Hanoi.

According to the company, trials on selected hybrid vehicles found that E10 delivered slightly improved fuel efficiency, higher power output, and lower emissions compared with conventional RON 95 gasoline.

While results may vary depending on vehicle type and driving conditions, the findings challenge the common assumption that ethanol blended fuels automatically reduce performance.

Why Vietnam Is Pushing E10

Vietnam’s move toward E10 is part of a broader effort to reduce emissions, strengthen energy security, and support domestic agricultural industries that supply ethanol production.

Government officials argue that wider adoption of biofuels can help lower dependence on fossil fuels while contributing to environmental goals.

At the same time, authorities have acknowledged that public communication around E10 has been inconsistent, leaving many consumers uncertain about whether their vehicles can safely use the fuel.

That uncertainty is exactly why automakers are now racing to publish compatibility lists and technical guidance.

Should Drivers Be Concerned?

For the vast majority of vehicle owners, probably not.

The consensus from manufacturers is that modern cars sold in Vietnam were designed with ethanol blended fuels in mind and can operate normally on E10 when the fuel meets quality standards.

The bigger issue isn’t whether most vehicles can use E10. It’s making sure drivers know which older models may require extra attention before making the switch.

Authorities in Da Nang have dismantled a drug distribution network accused of supplying narcotics to foreign visitors, highlighting ongoing efforts to protect the city’s reputation as one of Vietnam’s fastest growing tourism destinations.

Police in the central Vietnamese city of Da Nang say they have arrested several suspects following a raid that uncovered an alleged drug trafficking operation catering primarily to foreign nationals. The investigation led to the seizure of multiple types of illegal drugs and the detention of both Vietnamese and foreign suspects.

According to investigators, the network was allegedly coordinated by a 23 year old Vietnamese woman who used social media platforms to communicate with customers and arrange transactions. Authorities believe many of the buyers were foreign tourists staying in the city.

Early Morning Raid

The arrests followed a coordinated police operation carried out in the early hours of June 1 at a hotel near the Han River area, one of Da Nang’s most popular districts for visitors.

Officers reportedly detained the main suspect while she was preparing to deliver drugs to customers. Additional searches at hotels and residential properties led to the arrest of several other individuals, including foreign nationals. Authorities also seized various narcotics and drug paraphernalia during the operation.

Several suspects later tested positive for illegal substances, according to police. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to determine the full scope of the network and whether additional individuals were involved.

Tourism Growth Brings New Challenges

The case comes as Da Nang continues to experience a strong rebound in international tourism.

Over the past year, the city has welcomed growing numbers of visitors from across Asia and beyond, helped by expanded flight connections, new resort developments, and major events such as the Da Nang International Fireworks Festival. The resurgence has strengthened the local economy but has also created new challenges for authorities seeking to prevent criminal activity from targeting visitors.

Local officials have repeatedly emphasized efforts to maintain Da Nang’s reputation as a safe destination for international travelers. Drug related offenses carry severe penalties under Vietnamese law, and enforcement agencies routinely conduct operations targeting trafficking networks and illegal drug use.

A Reminder for Visitors

While violent crime remains relatively rare in Vietnam compared with many regional destinations, authorities regularly warn visitors about the country’s strict drug laws.

Even small quantities of illegal substances can result in serious criminal penalties, including lengthy prison sentences. For international tourists, the latest arrests serve as a reminder that Vietnam takes narcotics offenses extremely seriously.

Police have not yet announced whether further arrests are expected, but investigators say the case remains under active investigation.

As a woman lay bleeding on a street in northern Vietnam after a knife attack, passersby kept their distance. One young man didn’t. Armed with nothing more than a helmet and a fire extinguisher, he rushed toward the attacker and helped save her life.

At around 2:15 a.m. on June 2, Pham The Huy Hoang was heading home after a late night meal when he witnessed a scene most people hope never to encounter.

On a street in Hai Phong, a woman had already collapsed to the ground after being attacked. According to Hoang, the assailant continued stabbing her as she lay injured in the middle of the road.

“It happened very quickly,” he later recalled. “The woman was already on the ground, but the man kept attacking her.”

A Split Second Decision

Despite the late hour, there were still people nearby.

But the attacker was armed with a knife and behaving aggressively. Witnesses kept their distance.

Hoang initially tried to stop the assault by throwing his motorcycle helmet toward the suspect. When that failed, he sprinted to a nearby gas station, borrowed a fire extinguisher, and ran back toward the scene.

Unable to approach safely because of the knife, he repeatedly sprayed the attacker with the extinguisher. When it ran out, he threw the canister toward him.

The tactic worked.

The attacker retreated, giving the victim a chance to receive help.

The Hardest Part Came After

What happened next surprised Hoang almost as much as the attack itself.

After the suspect fled, he shouted for assistance and asked nearby people to help transport the injured woman to hospital. According to his account, nobody stepped forward.

Eventually, Hoang and a friend took the victim to hospital themselves.

Despite suffering multiple stab wounds, the woman remained conscious when she arrived for treatment. Her family arrived shortly afterward, and she was later transferred to Hanoi for further medical care.

“I Didn’t Do It for a Reward”

When the victim’s family learned who had helped save her life, they wanted to personally thank him and offer a reward.

He declined.

“I just followed my conscience,” Hoang said. “Seeing that she survived was enough for me. I didn’t do it expecting anything in return.”

It’s a simple statement, but one that resonated with many Vietnamese social media users after footage of the rescue began circulating online.

Why the Story Struck a Nerve

Acts of heroism often make headlines. What made this case different was how ordinary the circumstances seemed.

Hoang wasn’t a police officer, a security guard, or someone trained for dangerous situations. He was simply a young man heading home after a meal.

In a moment when fear could easily have justified doing nothing, he chose to act.

The incident has since sparked widespread discussion online about bystander behavior, personal responsibility, and the difficult decisions people face when witnessing violence.

While authorities continue investigating the attack, many people have focused on a different question:

What would they have done in the same situation?