The route is operated by Con Dao Group Joint Stock Company. The Con Dao Special Zone has also been designated a green transition zone of Ho Chi Minh City, with the goal of achieving net-zero emissions before 2050.
The route has a length of 17.1 km, serving 39 pick-up and drop-off points. It directly connects Con Dao Airport with Con Dao Market, as well as Ben Dam Port with the island’s centre, enabling more convenient and safe travel for passengers.
In the coming period, the Public Transport Management Centre will continue to coordinate with relevant departments and units to put an additional five bus routes into operation, namely Routes 174, 175, 176, 177, and 178, helping electric buses cover more than 90% of key tourist sites in Con Dao.
According to the Public Transport Management Centre (under the Department of Construction), Electric Bus Route 173 uses fully electric vehicles with zero greenhouse gas emissions, smooth operation, and reduced noise pollution. Each trip takes about 30 minutes, with operating hours from 5:00 to 19:00. Fares range from 5,000 to 40,000 VND per passenger depending on distance. Notably, residents and officials living and working in the special zone are exempt from fares.
Speaking at the event, Bui Hoa An, Deputy Director of the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Construction, stressed that the launch of Electric Bus Route 173 concretises the Action Programme on green energy transition under the Prime Minister’s Decision No. 876/QD-TTg, thereby reaffirming Ho Chi Minh City’s strong commitment to achieving net-zero emissions and delivering tangible benefits for sustainable development.
From January 1, 2027, all transport vehicles in Con Dao are expected to be electric and green, contributing to the development of an emission-free and environmentally friendly Con Dao. Based on this green model in Con Dao, the city will then expand similar initiatives to Can Gio and other areas of Ho Chi Minh City.
