Police seize over 210 illegally modified electric vehicles

Police discover 216 uninspected electric vehicles, showing signs of recycled batteries and posing fire risks, at a company in Xuan Thoi Son commune (former Hoc Mon district).

Ho Chi Minh City Police conducted the inspection as part of a review of over 200 establishments, aimed at preventing illegal racing, the installation of high-capacity batteries, and tampering with electric vehicle systems.

Over 200 electric vehicles were seized due to signs of uninspected battery assembly and illegal modification. *Photo: Police provided.*

A representative of the establishment told authorities they had imported unregistered electric vehicle components, which lacked safety inspections or type approval. They also recycled old batteries, affixed their own labels, and sold them without invoices or proper documentation. The warehouse additionally contained numerous parts of unknown origin.

Ho Chi Minh City Police reported a recent trend of young people modifying electric bicycles and motorcycles to boost power and speed. These unauthorized alterations, including engine changes, high-capacity battery installations, and tampering with control systems, make vehicles more powerful but carry significant risks of accidents, fires, and explosions.