Ride in Green SM's electric taxis: full-time drivers and VinFast SUVs now in LA
The Vietnamese ride-hailing firm begins operations with full-time drivers and VinFast SUVs, marking its ninth global market entry.
Key points
- Green SM launched an all-electric taxi service in Los Angeles with 500 VinFast VF 8 SUVs.
- The company employs full-time drivers, distinguishing itself from gig-worker platforms like Uber and Lyft.
- This launch marks Green SM’s entry into its ninth market, expanding Vingroup’s presence in the US.
Green SM has launched an all-electric taxi service in Los Angeles, marking its first entry into the North American market. The Vietnamese ride-hailing firm, owned by Vingroup, began operations with a fleet of 500 VinFast VF 8 SUVs. This expansion introduces more vehicles from sister company VinFast to US roads, aiming to boost visibility for the automaker.
In plain English
The service operates differently from dominant platforms like Uber and Lyft. While those apps rely on independent gig workers who use their own vehicles, Green SM hires and trains its own staff as full-time employees. The company also owns the cars in its fleet. This model allows for greater control over service quality and driver reliability, according to the firm.
The background
Vingroup, Vietnam’s largest private company, owns both Green SM and VinFast. The carmaker has faced challenges in the United States, selling fewer than 400 vehicles there in the first half of 2026, according to Automotive News as cited by InsideEVs. This taxi launch provides a new avenue for VinFast to place its vehicles in front of American consumers.
What changes now
Riders in Los Angeles can book Green SM taxis through its dedicated app, by calling a hotline, or by hailing a car on the street. New users receive a discount of half off their first five rides, with a maximum savings of $12 per trip. The service joins Waymo and Uber in the local market, which are testing autonomous and self-driving options.
Key terms explained
Ride-hailing platforms connect passengers with drivers via digital apps. Traditional taxi services often employ drivers directly, while newer models use independent contractors. Fleet ownership means the company buys and maintains the vehicles, ensuring consistent quality. Full-time employment provides drivers with stable income and structured training, which can improve service reliability and customer satisfaction for passengers.
What to do and how to stay safe: Green SM
- Check if the Green SM app is available in your area and download it to compare pricing with other local ride-hailing services.
- Verify driver identification and vehicle details before entering the car, a standard safety practice for any ride-hailing service.
- Monitor your account for the promotional discount on your first five rides if you are a new user in Los Angeles.
- Compare the service quality and driver professionalism with other local options to determine which platform best fits your travel needs.
General security guidance from the Vector Update newsroom. It is not confirmed advice from the organisations named in this story.
Frequently asked questions
How many taxis are in the initial Green SM fleet in Los Angeles?
The initial fleet consists of 500 VinFast VF 8 SUVs.
Does Green SM use gig workers or full-time employees?
Green SM hires and trains its own staff as full-time employees, unlike platforms that rely on gig workers.
Which company owns Green SM and VinFast?
Both Green SM and VinFast are owned by Vingroup, Vietnam’s largest private company.
