AI and Green Mobility: When the Future of Transportation Must Put People at the Center

The event was jointly organized by the Vietnam Economic Association (VEA), VnEconomy, and the Tech for Good Institute (TFGI), with knowledge partnership from the Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (IPSS).

Amid rapid urbanization and growing mobility demand, many speakers highlighted that AI is becoming a key enabler helping cities shift from “reactive” traffic management toward predictive and real-time optimization models. Applications such as intelligent traffic signal coordination, logistics optimization, EV infrastructure management, and mobility data analytics are opening new pathways for modern urban transportation systems.

According to the presentation by Mr. Nguyen Anh Duong (IPSS), AI has already begun to be applied in smart traffic operation centers in Vietnam, particularly in traffic light management, surveillance camera systems, and traffic violation enforcement. At the same time, the transition toward electric vehicles is accelerating the development of a new mobility ecosystem built on digital platforms and data-driven operations.

One of the key messages throughout the workshop was the philosophy of “putting people at the center.” Experts emphasized that the success of smart transportation should not be measured by the amount of technology deployed, but by whether people can access jobs, public services, and development opportunities more conveniently, safely, and sustainably.

Examples shared from across Southeast Asia demonstrated how AI can support more inclusive mobility ecosystems - from optimizing traffic flows and cross-border logistics to managing air quality and responding to urban flooding in real time. TFGI’s research also stressed that transportation transition can only be truly sustainable when accompanied by workforce upskilling, social support, and equitable accessibility for all communities.

Representatives from KLINOVA also attended the workshop and showed particular interest in discussions related to green transportation, public transport electrification, sustainable logistics, and the application of AI in urban emissions management. Drawing from our experience in implementing green mobility initiatives, greenhouse gas inventories, ESG advisory, and green transition projects for manufacturing and logistics enterprises, KLINOVA believes that the future of transportation is not only about infrastructure or technology, but also about emissions governance, energy efficiency, and data connectivity across the entire operational chain. AI is expected to become an important tool for optimizing logistics operations, reducing Scope 3 emissions, and supporting the development of low-carbon transport ecosystems in Vietnam.

In addition, the development of polycentric urban models, mass public transit systems, and EV ecosystems was recognized as a critical foundation for reducing congestion and improving long-term urban quality of life.

The workshop once again demonstrated that AI is not the end goal itself, but rather a tool to build a greener, smarter, and more inclusive mobility ecosystem for Vietnamese people and businesses.

- Huu Hoang -