Green SM, a Vietnamese-born all-electric taxi service, has officially launched in Los Angeles, marking its first entry into North America and expanding its global footprint to nine markets. The move matters because it introduces a new player in the U.S. ride-hailing market with a fully electric fleet, promising a more comfortable and sustainable urban mobility experience. Los Angeles drivers spend an average of approximately 87 hours each year in rush-hour traffic, according to the INRIX Global Traffic Scorecard, equivalent to more than three full days. For commuters, that time can be an opportunity to prepare for the day ahead rather than a drain on energy.
The in-vehicle experience plays a crucial role in shaping that opportunity. J.D. Power's 2026 U.S. Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study, which evaluated 78,514 new-vehicle owners, found that electric vehicles outperformed internal combustion engine vehicles in nearly every category, with the largest gap in powertrain, where EVs scored 109 points higher on a 1,000-point scale. A 2018 University of York study also reported positive changes among drivers who switched from diesel to electric vehicles, including improved concentration, greater calmness, and a stronger sense of happiness. These findings, highlighted in reports by InsideEVs: J.D. Power survey on EV owner satisfaction and Electrive: University of York study on the effects of driving electric cars, underscore how a smoother, quieter ride can contribute to overall well-being and happiness.
Green SM aims to capitalize on this with its "Start Strong. Arrive Ready." message. The service uses the VinFast VF 8, a D-segment electric SUV with a spacious interior, clean cabin, and smooth, quiet performance. Passengers can use the journey to finish emails, review meeting talking points, or simply relax before the day begins. The company emphasizes driver quality, with Green Driver partners carefully selected and trained for professionalism, courtesy, and attentive service. Through the Green SM app, customers can access information about drivers, vehicles, and routes, as well as transparent fares and promotional offers.
The launch also carries environmental significance. Green SM's all-electric fleet produces zero tailpipe emissions, aligning with the company's 5 Good Promises: Good Cars, Good Drivers, Good Price, Good Experience, and Good for the Environment. Globally, Green SM has completed approximately 850 million trips covering nearly 6 billion kilometers, helping reduce more than 800,000 metric tons of CO2 emissions, equivalent to the carbon absorbed by approximately 36 million trees. In the U.S., the company says it will progressively strengthen local operations, recruit and train drivers from the community, and invest in fleet, technology, people, and service quality to build a sustainable, long-term presence.
To celebrate its launch, Green SM is offering new users 50% off fares, up to $12 per ride, on their first five trips, along with free Green Pass membership that includes 10 discount codes each month, each offering 30% off a fare, up to $10. The company's expansion from Vietnam to Los Angeles represents more than brand growth; it is an opportunity to bring greener, more comfortable mobility to major cities worldwide. As urban congestion remains a persistent challenge, Green SM's entry could pressure competitors to accelerate their own electrification and service improvements, while offering consumers a more relaxing way to start their day.
