Written Reply by Minister for Transport S Iswaran to Parliamentary Question on Revisions to Design and Technology for OBUs for Nexgen ERP and Measures to Ensure Compatibility with Latest Technology and Consumer Preferences

Mr Yip Hon Weng asked the Minister for Transport 

a.     what are the revisions to the design and technology for the On-Board Units for the Next-Generation Electronic Road Pricing System since the last update; and 

b.     how will the Ministry ensure that the Unit stays compatible with the latest technology and consumer preferences when it is implemented in mid-2023.

Reply by Minister for Transport S Iswaran:

1.     The On-Board Unit (OBU) has been designed to balance several needs. These include performing the charging functions accurately and securely in different vehicle types and environments, as well as being able to interoperate with both the existing system and the new global navigation satellite system (GNSS).

2.     The Land Transport Authority (LTA) conducted surveys and focus group discussions with motorists last year to better understand and meet motorists’ preferences for OBU installation positions and display user interface. While this will not lead to a fundamental redesign of the OBU at this juncture, it will help improve the motorists’ experience.

3.     As previously announced, we are also studying the option of allowing motorists to use their smartphones as the display screen of the OBU and will be engaging the industry on possible ways to implement this.

4.     The nexgen ERP system is designed for long-term use. It is supported by GNSS technology which remains one of the most commonly used navigation technologies today. In addition, the nexgen ERP system is based on open standards and adopts a modular design to provide greater flexibility for future updates and improvements. We will continue to monitor technological developments and incorporate refinements where feasible.