Green SM Bike officially launches electric motorcycle ride-hailing services in Jakarta to expand sustainable urban mobility options

The landscape of urban transportation in Indonesia’s capital underwent a significant shift on September 16, 2026, as Green SM, the Vietnamese ride-hailing giant, officially deployed its electric motorcycle (EV) service, Green SM Bike, across Jakarta. Following the successful introduction of its electric taxi fleet, this strategic expansion marks Indonesia as the first international market for the company’s two-wheeled EV operations. The move signals a broader commitment to accelerating the adoption of sustainable transport solutions in one of the world’s most congested metropolitan areas.

Chronology and Operational Scope

The operational rollout of Green SM Bike began in mid-September 2026, initially targeting high-demand districts in South, West, and Central Jakarta. By focusing on these hubs, the company aims to address the critical "last-mile" connectivity gap that often characterizes Jakarta’s commute. The service utilizes the VinFast Evo and Feliz II models, two compact electric scooters designed specifically for urban navigation.

To ensure operational viability, Green SM has embarked on an ambitious infrastructure project, installing a network of battery charging and swapping stations across its initial service zones. This infrastructure is vital for maintaining the uptime of the fleet, ensuring that drivers can swap depleted batteries for fully charged units with minimal downtime.

Economic Models for Drivers

Green SM has structured its entry into the Indonesian market with a focus on lowering the barrier to entry for prospective drivers. The company offers two primary financial pathways: a "rent-to-own" scheme and a flexible rental agreement.

The rent-to-own program, touted as a flagship offering, allows drivers to secure a VinFast motorcycle for a daily fee starting at IDR 39,000. Under the terms of this contract, drivers can gain full ownership of the vehicle after a two-year commitment, provided they meet the company’s operational benchmarks. This model is designed to provide financial stability for gig workers, transitioning them from mere renters to asset owners.

For those who prefer not to commit to long-term ownership, Green SM offers flexible rental contracts spanning three, six, or 12 months. These contracts require an initial deposit of IDR 150,000. To further attract talent, the company has introduced a guaranteed income scheme, promising up to IDR 160,000 per day for the first two months of operation, supplemented by performance-based bonuses. While these figures provide a baseline, the company emphasizes that actual earnings are contingent upon individual performance, total completed trips, and adherence to regional service policies.

Recruitment and Safety Standards

The recruitment drive for Green SM Bike drivers involves a rigorous vetting process. Prospective partners must be between 21 and 54.5 years old and possess a valid Indonesian motorcycle license (SIM C), a national identity card (KTP), a family card (KK), and a police clearance certificate (SKCK). Furthermore, candidates must be proficient in using navigation applications and possess a working knowledge of Jakarta’s complex road network.

Safety remains a core pillar of the company’s operational strategy, particularly given recent public scrutiny regarding road safety involving EV operators in the Bekasi region. Green SM has integrated mandatory training programs for all new recruits. These sessions cover not only the mechanics of operating the VinFast scooters but also defensive driving techniques and standardized customer service protocols. Collaborative efforts with the Indonesian National Police (Korlantas Polri) have been initiated to ensure that the driver training programs align with national road safety standards, reflecting a proactive approach to mitigating the risks associated with the high volume of two-wheeled traffic in Jakarta.

The VinFast Ecosystem in Indonesia

The integration of VinFast vehicles is not merely a logistical choice but a strategic alignment between two companies sharing a vision for regional EV expansion. By utilizing the Evo and Feliz II models, Green SM is positioning itself as a leader in the shift away from internal combustion engine (ICE) motorcycles.

The reliance on these models serves as a real-world test for the durability and range efficiency of VinFast products in tropical, high-traffic conditions. Industry analysts suggest that the performance of these scooters in Jakarta’s heat and stop-and-go traffic will be a key indicator for VinFast’s future penetration in the broader Southeast Asian market.

Market Analysis: Implications for Urban Mobility

The entry of Green SM into the motorcycle ride-hailing sector disrupts a market long dominated by local players. By focusing exclusively on electric vehicles, the company is tapping into the Indonesian government’s push for green energy adoption. The Indonesian government has set aggressive targets for the electrification of the transport sector to curb urban air pollution and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

However, the expansion is not without challenges. The success of the model depends heavily on the density and reliability of the charging network. Unlike gasoline stations, which are ubiquitous, the convenience of the Green SM experience rests entirely on the company’s ability to manage its proprietary battery-swapping ecosystem.

Furthermore, the economic viability of the rent-to-own model will be closely watched. With the rise of the gig economy, providing a pathway to asset ownership for drivers is a significant differentiator. If successful, it could force competitors to rethink their own driver engagement models, potentially leading to better working conditions and higher asset security for the thousands of motorcycle taxi drivers operating across Indonesia.

Official Responses and Regulatory Outlook

Regulatory bodies have responded with cautious optimism. Following a series of safety concerns raised earlier in 2026—specifically regarding a high-profile traffic incident involving a Green SM taxi in Bekasi—the Ministry of Transportation and the National Police have held multiple audits of the company’s operational facilities. These audits have resulted in increased collaboration, with the Korlantas Polri actively working with Green SM to standardize driver training.

"The introduction of any new transport service must prioritize the safety of the public and the drivers," a spokesperson for the local transport authority noted during a recent briefing. The dialogue between Green SM and the authorities underscores the importance of compliance in a highly regulated market. By engaging with law enforcement and safety regulators early in the rollout, Green SM is attempting to foster institutional trust, a move that is essential for long-term survival in the Indonesian market.

Future Expansion and Growth

While the current operations are concentrated in the capital, Green SM has hinted at a broader roadmap for Indonesia. The company has stated that it is keeping its options open regarding expansion into other major cities, such as Surabaya, Bandung, and Medan, should the Jakarta pilot prove successful.

The scalability of the business depends on a delicate balance: maintaining high vehicle uptime through efficient battery management, ensuring driver retention through attractive income schemes, and navigating the complex regulatory landscape of the Indonesian transportation sector.

As of late 2026, the arrival of Green SM Bike represents more than just a new ride-hailing option; it is a test case for the electrification of the world’s most popular mode of transport in one of the world’s most densely populated cities. With thousands of daily commuters expected to transition to electric mobility, the coming months will be critical in determining whether Green SM can translate its Vietnamese success into a sustainable, long-term footprint in the Indonesian archipelago. The company’s emphasis on infrastructure, training, and flexible financial models provides a robust foundation, yet the ultimate measure of success will be the daily experience of both the drivers and the passengers who navigate the bustling streets of Jakarta.