- Singapore to test self-driving minibuses and goods vehicles on roads.
- LTA approves 2 self-driving vehicle tests on specific Singapore roads.
- Initiative aims to address manpower challenges in logistics and public transport.
Singapore is gearing up to put self-driving minibuses and goods vehicles on its streets, marking a big step in transport innovation.
Singapore’s Push for Self-Driving Vehicles
In a recent article by The Straits Times, Singapore’s plan to use self-driving minibuses and goods vehicles was revealed.
Transport Minister Chee Hong Tat shared this news at a big transport event on 6 Nov 2024.
The event is the Singapore International Transport Congress and Exhibition.
Over 5,000 transport professionals attended this event.
The Land Transport Authority (LTA) has given the green light for self-driving vehicles to be used in 2 cases.
First is electric robo-sweepers use on Airline Road and Marina Coastal Drive.
Next is electric logistics vehicles use to transfer goods between Fairprice’s distribution centres in Benoi and Joo Koon.
Benefits of Self-Driving Vehicles
According to The Straits Times, Chee Hong Tat said, “These use cases can help address our pressing manpower challenges in the logistics and public transport sectors.”
Self-driving vehicles can help solve worker shortages in moving goods and public transport.
The focus is on minibuses and goods vehicles because they can easily follow fixed routes.
LTA’s Plans for Self-Driving Minibuses
The LTA plans to buy some self-driving minibuses.
They will work with a public bus company to use these buses.
At first, these buses will run on quieter routes with less traffic.
A safety driver will be on the bus during early tests.
Later, someone might control the bus from far away.
| Vehicle Type | Initial Use | Safety Measure |
|---|---|---|
| Goods vehicles | Between distribution centres | Approved for specific roads |
| Robo-sweeping vehicles | Covering 2 areas | Approved for specific roads |
| Self-driving minibuses | Quiet routes with less traffic | Safety driver on board |
Safety and Testing
The LTA has revised rules for testing and assessing self-driving vehicles.
These vehicles must be tested in a circuit before they can be used in Singapore roads.
The LTA will check how well these vehicles work in local conditions, like heavy rain.
They know that accidents might still happen, just like with human drivers.
If an accident occurs, they will look into it carefully.
Singapore’s Journey with Self-Driving Technology
Singapore started looking into self-driving technology in 2015.
Progress has been slower than they hoped.
But now, they’re ready to move forward with these vehicles.
The LTA is open to ideas about robo-taxis too, even though they’re more challenging.
As quoted in The Straits Times, Chee Hong Tat mentioned, “LTA is ready to work with other firms interested to tap these vehicles.”
What This Means for Singapore
This move shows Singapore’s commitment to using new technology in transport.
It could help solve worker shortages in logistics and public transport.
It might also make moving around Singapore more efficient.
However, safety is still the top priority.
The LTA will keep a close eye on how these vehicles perform.
Do you think self-driving vehicles will make Singapore’s transport system better?
