New Electric Bus Features to Enhance Safer and Inclusive Journeys in Singapore
The Land Transport Authority (LTA) has unveiled exciting new advancements for its electric bus fleet, furthering Singapore’s commitment to creating safer, greener, and more inclusive public transportation. As part of a larger initiative to electrify Singapore’s bus services, the LTA is introducing 10 new electric buses equipped with state-of-the-art technology, designed to enhance the commuter experience.
Expanding the Electric Bus Fleet
Starting in December 2024, the new electric buses will be deployed on routes 86, 107, and 159, utilizing the new charging infrastructure at the Sengkang West Bus Depot. This move brings the total number of electric buses in operation to 70, supporting Singapore’s larger goal of creating a sustainable and eco-friendly public transport system. The introduction of these buses aligns with the LTA’s target to electrify half of the nation’s public bus fleet by 2030, with plans for over 2,000 electric buses to be added in the next five years.
Enhanced Features for Safer, Smoother Journeys
The 10 new electric buses come equipped with innovative features that prioritize both safety and inclusivity:
1. Camera Mirror Systems: These buses replace traditional side mirrors with high-definition camera mirror systems, offering bus captains a broader, clearer view of their surroundings. This system helps reduce blind spots and improves visibility, especially in low light and adverse weather conditions, ensuring safer driving.
2. Automated Boarding Ramps: The buses are also equipped with automated boarding ramps that are easy to deploy from the middle door. These ramps are designed for passengers using wheelchairs or personal mobility aids. Made from durable materials like aluminum alloy, the ramps automatically detect obstacles and align with the kerb for smoother and more efficient deployment, ensuring a seamless experience for all passengers.
Additionally, as with existing electric buses, the new models feature passenger information display systems that provide real-time updates on bus stops and destinations, keeping passengers well-informed throughout their journey.
Supporting Large-Scale Electric Bus Deployment
These new buses are part of a broader initiative, with the LTA having procured 360 electric buses in November 2023 from BYD (Singapore) Pte Ltd and Cycle & Carriage Automotive. This purchase is part of the LTA’s strategy to replace aging diesel buses, ensuring a greener fleet. In addition to the initial 360 buses, LTA has also exercised an option to procure an additional 60 electric buses, bringing the total to 420.
The LTA aims to fully electrify its public bus fleet by 2040, marking a significant milestone in the city’s sustainability efforts.
Innovative Sengkang West Bus Depot
To support this growing fleet, the Sengkang West Bus Depot has been designed as the first multi-storey bus depot in Singapore. This five-storey facility will house up to 500 electric and diesel/hybrid buses and is equipped with large-scale, high-powered electric vehicle (EV) charging systems. The depot will feature 240 EV chargers capable of fully charging buses in less than 1.5 hours, optimizing energy use and reducing downtime.
Sengkang West Bus Depot is also a model of environmental sustainability, with green roofs, solar photovoltaic systems, and rainwater recycling integrated into its design. In addition, it offers on-site staff accommodation, providing housing for up to 350 transport workers, including bus captains, ensuring they have comfortable living spaces and access to recreational facilities.
This innovative approach is part of Singapore’s ongoing efforts to build a more sustainable and inclusive transport ecosystem for the future.
image source: Wikimedia Commons (Mention in caption below the pic)
Terence Ong, CC BY-SA 3.0 <http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/>, via Wikimedia Commons (mention at end of article)
