SINGAPORE – Singapore’s Ministry of Transport (MOT) is set to introduce autonomous public shuttle services in Punggol estate starting the fourth quarter of 2025, as confirmed by Acting Transport Minister Jeffrey Siow and Senior Minister of State Sun Xueling during their visit to Guangzhou. The pilot programme aims to integrate self-driving vehicles (AVs) into the public transport network, offering fixed-route, short-point connections to key locations like MRT stations, bus interchanges, and neighbourhood amenities.
Siow highlighted that Punggol was chosen for its well-established travel patterns, mature infrastructure, and consistent commuter feedback. “We can introduce a short point‑to‑point fixed route services in HDB estates,” he explained, adding that reliable road layout and community input informed the choice of deployment routes. Sun, representing Punggol GRC, emphasized residents’ interest in easy access across the estate. “Residents in Punggol West…want more convenient access to amenities in Punggol East, like the wet market and polyclinic,” and vice versa for eastern residents reaching transport hubs.
The MOT is in discussions with multiple AV producers and transport operators—including Singaporean and Chinese partners, as well as U.S.-based Waymo—to finalise suitable vehicle types, service frequencies, and fare structures . Initial runs will feature a safety officer onboard, vehicle speed will be kept at a manageable level, and buses will remain empty until public familiarity grows . Once confidence builds, supervised passenger runs will commence, followed by remote operation without onboard safety personnel.
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Siow also stressed that AV trials will alleviate manpower shortages and support night bus services. “In the medium term, this could be widened to include…night buses, which can be run more frequently with driverless vehicles,” he noted. AsiaOne reported that while drivers’ roles may evolve, alternative job opportunities will emerge, such as assisting passengers or overseeing vehicle operations. “The role of the driver may change…we will help drivers reskill…to take up other jobs,” he said, with support from NTUC.
Looking ahead, Siow suggested successful deployment in Punggol could pave the way for trials in Tengah, a newly developed town designed to be car-lite. Industry leaders anticipate that public acceptance and infrastructure readiness will be critical success factors. Operator interest is strong, with some AV companies already planning to expand their fleets to serve HDB estates.
As AV technology matures globally—with trials in China serving as a reference point—the Punggol shuttle trial signals Singapore’s commitment to integrating driverless transport into its public mobility infrastructure. The pilot aims to unfold safely, progressively, and inclusively, setting the stage for a wider rollout regionally by early 2026.
Source: CNA
