Singapore Enhances ERP 2.0 System for Improved Motorist Experience

The Land Transport Authority (LTA) of Singapore has announced significant enhancements to the Electronic Road Pricing (ERP) 2.0 system, addressing key concerns and feedback from motorists. The upgrades aim to improve user choice, convenience, and safety for the over 18,000 vehicles that have installed the new on-board units (OBUs).

Why this matters: The ERP 2.0 system enhancements have broader implications for urban transportation management, as they demonstrate a commitment to leveraging technology to improve the motorist experience and reduce congestion. The ERP 2.0 system enhancements have broader implications for urban transportation management, as they demonstrate a commitment to leveraging technology to improve the motorist experience and reduce congestion. As cities around the world struggle with traffic management and sustainability, Singapore's efforts to optimize its road pricing system can serve as a model for other metropolitan areas.

One of the most notable changes is the flexibility in choosing the installation location of the ERP 2.0 processing unit. Vehicle owners can now opt to install the unit in the driver's or front passenger's footwell, or in alternative locations within the vehicle, subject to safety considerations and technical feasibility. This addresses previous concerns about the accessibility and placement of the unit.

Another significant enhancement is the elimination of the need to remove the CEPAS card from the processing unit when entering or exiting car parks. The LTA has introduced a button on the touchscreen display that allows motorists to deactivate their CEPAS card for parking payment without physically removing it from the unit. "The enhancement will address a key concern from motorists who worry that it will be difficult and unsafe to reach their card in the processing unit while they are in the driver's seat," stated the LTA.

To further improve convenience, NETS will provide a complimentary NETS Motoring Card to all motorists who install the OBU. This card can be used at private car parks that require tapping for entry or exit, eliminating the need to remove the CEPAS card from the processing unit. Motorists will also have the option to install the touchscreen display later if they change their minds, ensuring flexibility in the system.

The LTA has also been working closely with the Traffic Police to expand the safety notifications pushed to motorists through the OBU. In addition to school zones, silver zones, and bus lane hours, the system will soon include more speed camera zones, such as red-light cameras and mobile cameras. These features will be updated wirelessly, without requiring motorists to bring their vehicles back to workshops.

The enhancements to the ERP 2.0 system come after valuable feedback from early adopters who installed the OBU since its introduction in August 2023. "We appreciate the early adopters who stepped forward and provided useful feedback to improve our design and installation process," said the LTA. "LTA has taken on board the learning points and suggestions for improvement, and made changes to enhance user choice, convenience and safety."

As Singapore continues to optimize its road pricing system, the ERP 2.0 enhancements demonstrate the LTA's commitment to leveraging technology while prioritizing the needs and concerns of motorists. With improved flexibility, convenience, and safety features, the upgraded system aims to provide a smoother and more user-friendly experience for all road users in the city-state.

Key Takeaways

• LTA enhances ERP 2.0 system, addressing motorist concerns and feedback.
• Flexible installation options for ERP processing units, including driver's footwell.
• No need to remove CEPAS card from unit for parking payment, with new button feature.
• Complimentary NETS Motoring Card for OBU users, for easy parking access.
• Expanded safety notifications, including more speed camera zones, via OBU updates.