As of now, the system of charging stations in Điện Biên Phủ ward and several communes such as Tuần Giáo and Mường Ảng basically meets current usage demands. In Điện Biên Phủ ward, charging stations are reasonably located in densely populated and convenient areas for users, such as the provincial Post Office, Vincom Shopping Center, and Hoa Ba Supermarket. These stations operate relatively stably and are rarely overloaded on weekdays. For instance, at the provincial Post Office, there are four charging points, but usually only two or three operate at the same time. Outside central areas like Điện Biên Phủ and Mường Thanh wards, some petrol stations along major roads or in commune centers are also equipped with charging stations to support EV users on long trips.

Lê Thanh Khiết, a driver for Xanh SM Điện Biên electric taxi service who recently switched from a gasoline car to a VinFast VF5, noted that unlike refueling with gasoline, which takes only 5-10 minutes, charging now takes longer. “I drive about 200 kilometers a day and usually need to charge once. Our company headquarters has four chargers, two with a capacity of 120kW/h that can fully charge the car in about 30 minutes, and two with a capacity of 60kW/h that take about an hour. Additionally, drivers charge wherever convenient during work. With 150 cars currently in operation, there’s no overload or waiting in line for charging. I find charging quite convenient,” said Khiết.

Unlike high-mileage service vehicles, personal users generally drive only within central areas for personal and family needs. Their charging habits are more flexible, often in the late afternoon, evening, or weekends. However, this pattern sometimes leads to localized overloading at central charging points. Phan Thạch Thành, an EV owner in Điện Biên Phủ ward who drives a VF3, shared: “I usually charge at the Vincom Shopping Center. During peak hours like evenings or weekends, there can be a short wait. But since I work freelance, I charge during off-peak hours, so it’s not a problem. Even at peak times, I just park, wait, or browse the mall for a bit until a charger is free. Personally, I think the current number of charging stations still meets demand well.”

The two-year free charging program for many new models, particularly from VinFast, is prompting many consumers to consider switching from gasoline to electric cars. Beyond economic benefits, users are also recognizing convenience, low maintenance costs, and especially the positive environmental impact. As a result, the number of EVs in the province is growing faster than expected. This raises the question: will the charging network be expanded in time to accommodate the increase in private EVs, or will there be other solutions, such as enabling users to install home charging systems?

“The current charging system in Điện Biên is operating well in line with the current pace of EV growth. But clearly, infrastructure pressure is inevitable if the shift to EVs continues to boom. In my opinion, investing in more charging stations in residential areas, parking lots, petrol stations, and especially rest stops along inter-commune and inter-provincial roads will be essential to ensuring a good user experience in the future,” he added.

It is clear that the development of EVs is not only an automotive industry issue but also closely related to urban planning, energy, and public services. Given this growth momentum, government authorities should soon step in to plan charging station locations, support investment procedures, and encourage enterprises to expand charging networks. Conversely, EV manufacturers should proactively plan to expand their charging ecosystems and work with localities to enhance connectivity and user convenience.

Overall, EV users in Điện Biên can currently feel assured about charging, no overload, no long waits, and plenty of options. But this satisfaction may only be temporary if preparations for the future are not made. When EVs become a common choice, infrastructure pressure will rise, and without foresight, the “charging station shortage” could become the biggest obstacle that forces consumers to reconsider their choice of vehicle.