Vietnam’s Green GSM invests $1B in Phl electric taxi fleet

Vietnamese-based Vingroup Corporation has entered the Philippine transport network vehicle service market, investing $1 billion to launch an electric taxi fleet for Filipino passengers.

Powered by VinFast, an automotive company founded by Vingroup Chairman Pham Nhat Vuong, Green and Smart Mobility (Green GSM) was officially launched Tuesday in a ceremony held in Quezon City.

Known for their quiet, emission-free, and smooth rides, Green GSM has rolled out an initial fleet of 2,500 all-electric VinFast vehicles, now set to operate across Metro Manila.

The launch marks the first phase of Green GSM’s operations in the Philippines, with an initial $500 million allocated to build its headquarters, pay employee salaries, develop charging station infrastructure, and maintain taxi units and garages.

Once fully operational, the investment is expected to reach $1 billion and generate between 20,000 and 70,000 high-quality jobs for Filipinos nationwide.

Green GSM’s entry is seen as a major step toward fulfilling the Marcos administration’s goal of modernizing the public utility vehicle (PUV) sector.

The VinFast electric taxis aim to set new standards in safety, service quality, and environmental impact by reducing carbon emissions and offering a commuter-friendly, app-based booking system that promotes transparency and convenience.

“This will be a game-changer for Philippine public transport,” said Frederick Go, Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs, who took part in the ceremonial launch. “It promises not only to modernize our transport system, but more importantly, to offer commuters a safer, more convenient, and environment-friendly transport option.”

Department of Transportation Secretary Vince B. Dizon and Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Ma. Cristina Aldeguer-Roque also attended the launch.

Green GSM’s fleet will include the VinFast VF 5, a compact electric vehicle with a range of 326 kilometers, advanced driver-assistance systems, and modern infotainment features — designed for the demands of urban Philippine centers.

The company will operate a hybrid taxi model, allowing both app-based bookings and manual hailing. Drivers may work as full-time employees or enter into partnerships with Green GSM.

This initiative aligns with the government’s push for a seamless, efficient, and green transport network and supports the goal of deploying 2.4 million EVs by 2028 and reaching a 50 percent EV adoption rate by 2040 under the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act.