Vietnam’s Green SM has launched its all-electric ride-hailing service in India, beginning operations in the bustling Delhi NCR region. Backed by the conglomerate Vingroup, Green SM’s entry into India represents a significant development in the country’s urban transport landscape, particularly as it seeks to leverage the growing demand for sustainable mobility solutions.
Company Overview and Market Entry
Green SM, founded in 2023 by Vingroup chairman Pham Nhat Vuong, is making its debut in India with an all-electric fleet comprising the VinFast Limo Green, a seven-seater vehicle tailored for passenger transport. This marks the company’s fifth international market after successful ventures in Vietnam, Laos, Indonesia, and the Philippines.
In India, Green SM aims to cater to the increasing demand for eco-friendly transportation. Initially, the service will operate in select areas of Delhi NCR, with plans for phased expansion based on customer demand. The service is accessible via the Green SM app, a hotline, or by hailing vehicles directly in operational zones. To encourage early adoption, Green SM is offering a 50% discount, capped at Rs 250, on app bookings from June 5 to 11.
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Green SM adopts a unique business model by owning and operating its fleet, differentiating it from many ride-hailing platforms that connect passengers with independent drivers. The company emphasizes safety and service quality, with trained drivers and technologically equipped vehicles, including AI-enabled monitoring systems and emergency support features.
India’s Evolving EV Ride-Hailing Landscape
Green SM’s entry into India coincides with a transformative period for the country’s electric ride-hailing sector. The landscape has shifted significantly following the suspension of operations by BluSmart in 2025, a former leader in the electric cab space. Regulatory issues, including financial misconduct by Gensol Engineering’s promoters, contributed to BluSmart’s downfall.
Despite these challenges, the electric vehicle (EV) ride-hailing market in India remains vibrant. Smaller EV-focused operators are expanding, while major players like Uber, Ola, and Rapido continue to dominate the broader ride-hailing industry. The push for electric mobility is driven by lower operational costs, government incentives for clean transport, and a growing preference for environmentally friendly urban travel options.
VinFast’s Strategic Expansion in India
Green SM’s launch is part of a broader strategy by VinFast to establish a strong foothold in India, a country with immense potential for electric vehicle adoption. Recently, VinFast inaugurated its first production facility in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, signaling its long-term commitment to the Indian market. This facility will likely play a crucial role in supporting Green SM’s operations and scaling its services across India.
VinFast’s strategic investments in India align with the country’s goals of transitioning to cleaner transportation solutions, which are crucial for reducing urban pollution and achieving sustainability targets.
As Green SM begins its operations in Delhi NCR, Indian founders, engineers, and investors should closely observe how the company navigates the competitive and regulatory landscape. The success of Green SM could set a precedent for other international EV companies considering entering the Indian market. The next phase to watch will be Green SM’s expansion plans and its impact on local competition, as well as further developments from VinFast’s production capabilities in India.
