Passenger Vehicles in Southeast Asia, 2024

In 2024, Vietnam stands out in Southeast Asia for its overwhelming preference for two-wheeled vehicles, such as motorbikes and mopeds. According to a comprehensive study by Bain & Company, GenZero, Standard Chartered Bank, and Temasek, 96% of passenger vehicles in Vietnam are motorbikes or mopeds. This leaves only a small fraction, 4%, for cars.

This trend is not unique to Vietnam, as several other Southeast Asian countries also exhibit a strong preference for two-wheeled transportation. Indonesia, for example, has an 88% share of motorbikes and mopeds among its passenger vehicles. Thailand follows with 69%, while the Philippines and Malaysia have shares of 63% and 49%, respectively.

The data underscores a regional inclination towards more affordable, efficient, and maneuverable vehicles in densely populated and often congested urban areas. The dominance of motorbikes and mopeds reflects practical choices made by residents in these countries, influenced by economic, infrastructural, and cultural factors.

As Southeast Asia continues to develop, the vehicle landscape may evolve, but for now, motorbikes and mopeds remain the favored modes of transportation for many in the region.