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 comes as drivers in Los Angeles 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. While that figure is slightly lower than the 88 hours recorded the previous year, Los Angeles still ranks among the world's most congested urban areas, moving from eighth to tenth place.
For commuters, however, this time can be an opportunity: 15 minutes to review a presentation, a few moments to prepare for an important meeting, or a quiet transition from family life to the workday ahead. The in-vehicle experience plays an important role in making that difference. J.D. Power's 2026 U.S. Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study, which evaluates the emotional appeal and ownership experience of 78,514 new-vehicle owners during the first 90 days of ownership across 37 attributes, found that electric vehicles outperformed internal combustion engine vehicles in nearly every category. The largest gap was in the powertrain category, where EVs scored 109 points higher on a 1,000-point scale, as reported by InsideEVs: J.D. Power survey on EV owner satisfaction.
A 2018 study conducted by the University of York in the United Kingdom also reported positive changes among drivers who switched from diesel vehicles to electric vehicles, including improved concentration, greater calmness and a stronger sense of happiness, according to Electrive: University of York study on the effects of driving electric cars. Together, these findings highlight how a morning commute can become a more positive start to the day - with less stress, greater comfort and a stronger sense of control. Rather than allowing rush-hour traffic to drain their energy, commuters can turn their journey into an opportunity to prepare, recharge and feel ready for the day ahead.
This is the spirit behind "Start Strong. Arrive Ready.", the message Green SM has chosen to introduce its experience to the U.S. market. Through every electric ride, Green SM aims to help passengers begin their day feeling more positive, comfortable and energized. The experience comes to life through the VinFast VF 8, a D-segment electric SUV in Green SM's Los Angeles fleet. Its spacious interior, clean cabin and smooth, quiet performance offer passengers a welcome moment of comfort amid the pace of urban life. Whether heading to the office or an important appointment, passengers can use the journey to finish emails, review key talking points for a meeting, or simply relax and recharge before the day begins.
A pleasant journey is shaped not only by the vehicle, but also by the quality of service. Green Driver partners are carefully selected and trained, with an emphasis on professionalism, courtesy and attentive service throughout every ride. For customers booking through the Green SM app, available features provide information about drivers, vehicles and routes, helping passengers follow their journeys and stay informed along the way. Fares and promotional offers are also displayed clearly, making it easier for customers to compare options and choose a ride that suits their needs.
In mid-October, Green SM officially launched its all-electric taxi service in Los Angeles, with options to meet a range of mobility needs, from everyday commutes and longer journeys to airport transfers. Across its markets, Green SM builds its service experience around the 5 Good Promises: Good Cars, Good Drivers, Good Price, Good Experience and Good for the Environment. In Los Angeles, these principles are reflected in an all-electric VinFast fleet, transparent fares and promotional offers, professional drivers, attentive service and rides with zero tailpipe emissions.
To celebrate its launch, Green SM is offering special promotions to customers in Los Angeles. New users can enjoy 50% off their fares, up to $12 per ride, on their first five trips. Customers can also sign up for Green Pass membership free of charge and receive 10 discount codes each month, with each code offering 30% off a fare, up to $10.
Founded in Vietnam in 2023, Green SM has steadily expanded its operations, bringing all-electric mobility services to markets around the world, including Vietnam, Laos, Indonesia, the Philippines, India, Kazakhstan, Denmark and the Netherlands. The brand 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 amount of carbon absorbed by approximately 36 million trees. In the U.S., Green SM says it will progressively strengthen its local operations and recruit and train drivers from the local community, creating additional employment opportunities while contributing to the transition toward greener transportation in Los Angeles and the surrounding region.
