Self-driving vehicles set to become a key part of Singapore’s future transport system, focusing on minibuses and logistics vehicles.
The Land Transport Authority (LTA) of Singapore is set to expand the use of autonomous vehicles (AVs) on local roads, starting with self-driving minibuses and logistics vehicles. Transport Minister Chee Hong Tat emphasized that these vehicles are chosen due to their ability to operate on fixed routes with manageable risks. These technologies are already successfully deployed overseas, and their use is expected to help alleviate manpower challenges in public transport and logistics sectors.
LTA has already approved the use of AVs, including electric robo-sweepers for road maintenance and logistics vehicles used by the FairPrice Group. Additionally, the LTA plans to deploy autonomous minibuses in partnership with public bus operators, initially on routes with lower traffic and ridership. These minibuses will have a safety driver on board initially, transitioning to remote monitoring as the vehicles’ reliability is ensured.
The LTA’s approach includes rigorous testing frameworks to ensure AVs operate safely in Singapore’s dense urban environment, including tests for adverse conditions like heavy rain. The success of these trials could pave the way for more challenging routes and applications, with the long-term goal of integrating AVs into Singapore’s transport ecosystem. However, authorities are mindful that accidents involving AVs may still occur, and they are preparing for such situations with a focus on “safe-fail” systems.
