The surge of hybrid launches in Vietnam is surprising because fully electric cars have been topping sales charts for years. Understanding why manufacturers still favour hybrids helps explain the real‑world factors shaping the cars you see on the road.

Hybrid launches by Japanese, South Korean and Chinese makers have accelerated since the beginning of 2026, with brands such as Honda, Kia, Toyota, Hyundai, MG, Omoda & Jaecoo and BYD introducing many new hybrid or plug‑in hybrid models. These releases show a clear multi‑pathway strategy rather than an all‑electric gamble. Industry experts note that the move is driven by practical considerations as well as technology.

Associate Professor Dr. Do Van Dung, president of the Ho Chi Minh City Society of Automotive Engineers, said Vietnam’s public charging network is limited and uneven, especially outside Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. Rural roads and provincial areas have few stations.

The tropical climate also matters. Dr. Dung explained that outdoor temperatures often reach 32‑38 °C and can exceed 40 °C, which makes air‑conditioning in fully electric vehicles consume a lot of battery energy. This extra demand reduces the driving range of BEVs, making hybrids a more reliable option in hot weather.

Cost and production factors further favour hybrids. Experts say hybrids are cheaper to produce because they can use existing gasoline‑engine factories and avoid the high price competition of pure electric models. At the same time, hybrids let drivers keep using Vietnam’s extensive gasoline infrastructure while still cutting emissions.

Industry experts describe hybrids as a bridge: they lower emissions now and give consumers and technicians hands‑on experience with electrified powertrains. This pragmatic step helps Vietnam move toward sustainable transport without forcing an abrupt switch to fully electric cars.