LG Energy, Honda launch battery-swap network in Hanoi

LG Energy Solution signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Honda and the Hanoi city government to deploy battery-swapping stations and electric motorcycles in Vietnam’s capital. The partnership aims to install approximately 50 battery-swapping stations across Hanoi and deploy around 500 electric motorcycles beginning in the third quarter. Riders using the service will be able to swap drained batteries instead of waiting for them to recharge. Vietnam announced plans in 2025 to ban fossil fuel motorbikes in Hanoi to cut air pollution, creating a regulatory backdrop for the initiative.

Partnership Scope and Deployment Details

The battery-swapping infrastructure will use LG Energy Solution’s cylindrical 2170 cells, a standard format measuring 21 millimetres by 70 millimetres. LG Energy Solution will supply the batteries, operate the swapping system, build a safety management system, provide operating solutions support, and manage the battery lifecycle. Honda will handle battery packs, swapping equipment, and the electric two-wheelers themselves. The Hanoi city government will oversee permits, provide policy support, and manage local operations.

Vietnam’s Electric Motorbike Market Landscape

The pilot deployment represents an entry into a vast two-wheeler market. Hanoi has more than 6 million registered motorcycles for approximately 8.5 million residents, making the city heavily dependent on two-wheeled transport. Across Vietnam, electric models account for approximately 4% of the country’s roughly 80 million motorbikes as of 2025, representing approximately 3.2 million vehicles and indicating significant room for market expansion.

Role Breakdown

The partnership divides responsibilities across three entities. LG Energy Solution manages battery supply, the swapping system infrastructure, safety management systems, operating support, and battery lifecycle management. Honda is responsible for battery pack design, swapping equipment provision, and electric two-wheeler manufacturing and deployment. The Hanoi city government handles regulatory oversight including permits, policy support mechanisms, and coordination of local operations.