E-charter autos, including Grab cars, with fully registered information may not need to install taxi signs or add taxi badges to their rearview mirror, as earlier proposed, according to the latest draft decree which the Ministry of Transport sent to the Government, reported the local media.

Grab cars are parked on a road in Vietnam. According to the latest draft decree prepared by the Ministry of Transport, e-charter autos, including Grab cars, with fully registered information may not need to install taxi signs or add taxi badges to their rearview mirror

The draft decree is aimed at replacing Government Decree No. 86/2014/ND-CP.

In the draft decree, the ministry provides more regulations for taxis receiving electronic payments. This type of vehicle will need to have a lightbox installed, highlighting the word “E-taxi,” and must be equipped with appropriate devices to conduct payment transactions with customers, as well as provide thorough information about its operator, driver, vehicle type, and fare.

The draft decree notes that taxis collecting app-based payments will be viewed as e-taxis to promote the application of technology in the transport sector and create a fair business environment for traditional cabs and app-based taxis.

As explained by the ministry, app-based ride-hailing services will enable customers to enjoy more options in commuting. For instance, they can choose vehicle types and can know in advance all the necessary information relating to the drivers and fares, as well as track lost luggage and belongings more easily.

Moreover, the draft decree has added new regulations on managing and using e-charter transport services, along with outlining the responsibilities of related individuals and organizations. In addition, the ministry encourages transport operators to use information technology in their operations to reduce transport costs.

However, the draft decree has drawn flak from some taxi associations.

Nguyen Hung Cuong, chairman of the Hanoi Taxi Association, said that Grab cars must be considered cabs as their mode of operation is the same as that of traditional taxis. Therefore, Grab cars should install number plates in yellow to make them distinct from family-run autos and to enable authorities to monitor them.

Currently, there are 866 transport firms operating across the country, with more than 36,800 vehicles joining the pilot programs of e-charter services. Of this, HCMC owns 506 enterprises, three transport software suppliers and 21,600 vehicles. Meanwhile, Hanoi has 354 transport companies, seven software distributors and 15,000 autos.

SGT