Starting from 2026, major urban centers in Vietnam (such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City) will begin implementing Low Emission Zones (LEZ) and tightening emission standards — meaning older internal combustion engine (ICE) equipment (gasoline/diesel) may be restricted from entering central districts. In this context, electric street sweepers are emerging as a green solution that meets regulatory requirements and supports the broader goal of improving urban air quality.
Legal landscape in Vietnam (2025–2026)
Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City have released their roadmaps for establishing Low Emission Zones (LEZ), scheduled to begin in 2026 for central areas, with further expansion expected between 2027 and 2028. These measures include restricting or banning vehicles that fail to meet emission requirements (below Euro 4 standards).
This policy aims to reduce the spread of fine dust and toxic emissions—directly affecting municipal cleaning equipment using traditional combustion engines (diesel sweepers). Urban infrastructure operators and environmental service contractors will need to consider early technological transition to avoid compliance and operational risks.
Quick comparison: Electric sweepers (EV) vs. diesel sweepers
Below is a clear comparison table evaluating electric sweepers versus diesel-powered sweepers, helping municipal operators and businesses determine the most suitable solution from 2026 onward.
| Criteria |
Electric Street Sweeper (EV) |
Diesel Street Sweeper |
| Regulation & Emissions |
Zero direct CO₂/NOx/PM emissions — fully compliant with LEZ requirements and tightened emission standards from 2026. |
High emissions; at risk of being restricted or banned in LEZs and central districts. |
| Cleaning performance |
Modern models (e.g., Dulevo D.Zero²) offer performance comparable to diesel units, with wide sweeping paths and advanced filtration. |
Proven high performance; broad range of models and hopper capacities. |
| Operating time |
Capable of completing a full shift on a single charge (depending on battery configuration); fast-charging options reduce downtime. |
Long-running capability with fast refueling; independent of charging infrastructure. |
| Noise level |
Extremely quiet — ideal for night sweeping in residential, tourist, or noise-sensitive zones. |
Significantly noisier; limited for night operations in central areas. |
| Operating cost (TCO) |
Lower long-term electricity and maintenance costs; higher initial CapEx — requires 5–8 year TCO assessment. |
Lower initial CapEx; long-term fuel and maintenance costs are noticeably higher. |
| Maintenance & lifespan |
Fewer mechanical components, simpler maintenance; requires battery and charging system management. |
Requires frequent ICE maintenance (filters, oil, plugs, etc.); higher long-term upkeep costs. |
| Infrastructure needs |
Requires charging stations (AC/DC), battery management, and charging workflow setup. |
Fuel infrastructure already available — easy and immediate deployment. |
| Brand & public image |
Enhances “green city” image and demonstrates environmental commitment, positively viewed by the public and authorities. |
Minimal branding advantage; often perceived as outdated and polluting. |
| Ideal environments |
City centers, residential areas, tourist zones, LEZ areas, and noise-sensitive environments. |
Rural zones, construction sites, areas without emission rules or charging infrastructure. |
Case study: Dulevo D.Zero² — a leading electric sweeper for 2026
The Dulevo D.Zero² is a fully electric street sweeper featuring zero CO₂ and toxic emissions, high-performance LiFePO₄ battery packs, flexible configuration for full-shift operation, an advanced PM2.5/PM10 dust filtration system, and ultra-quiet operation for nighttime sweeping. It offers variable sweeping widths (1.75–3.2 m), a hopper capacity of ~2.1 m³, and high cleaning productivity (up to ~25,200 m²/h). Optional AC/DC fast-charging and a water-recirculation system help reduce water consumption and maximize uptime.
When should you choose electric sweepers? Practical recommendations for 2026
Select an EV sweeper if:
Your operating zone is within or near an LEZ → EV ensures compliance and avoids operational restrictions.
Your operations require low noise (night sweeping, residential areas, tourist zones).
You aim to reduce long-term TCO → EV usually wins in 5–8-year total cost analysis.
You want to build a “green, smart city” brand → EV enhances public perception and supports environmental objectives.
Limitations & requirements when transitioning to electric sweepers
Higher initial investment — budgeting for both the sweeper and charging stations; offset by lower long-term operating costs.
Charging infrastructure & battery management — requires planning for charger installation, backup battery options or optimized shift scheduling.
Training — operators need training in battery care, charging, and EV-specific maintenance.
Technical standards & procurement — choosing suppliers with strong after-sales service, spare parts availability, and long-term commitment.
Conclusion — The optimal choice for 2026
With stricter emission regulations coming into force from 2026 in major Vietnamese cities, electric street sweepers are a strategic investment—offering regulatory compliance, environmental benefits, quieter nighttime operation, and superior long-term cost efficiency. Diesel sweepers remain suitable for rural, peripheral, or construction environments without charging infrastructure, but for urban and sustainability-oriented applications, transitioning to EV sweepers now will reduce regulatory risks and long-term costs.
Pan Trading JSC — Official Dulevo representative in Vietnam
Pan Trading JSC, the official distributor of Dulevo International (Italy) in Vietnam, provides electric sweeper solutions (such as the Dulevo D.Zero²), along with model selection consulting, installation, operator training, and long-term maintenance services. For municipal authorities and service contractors planning a fleet transition, Pan Trading offers demonstration, pilot project and turnkey deployment support.
PAN TRADING JSC
142 B2 Street, Sala Urban Area, An Khanh Ward, Thu Duc City, HCMC
(+84) 28 3840 2222 | pantrading.vn | contact@pantrading.vn