Singapore Takes the Wheel on Autonomous Buses with LTA Pilot
Singapore is taking another leap forward in its vision for smart and sustainable transport. The Land Transport Authority (LTA) has issued a Request for Proposal (RFP), inviting the industry to submit proposals for the pilot deployment of autonomous public buses.
This initiative aims to test the feasibility of self-driving technology in real-world public transport operations, setting the stage for a more efficient and futuristic urban mobility landscape.
As cities worldwide race to integrate autonomous vehicles (AVs) into their public transport systems, Singapore is positioning itself at the forefront of this transformation. By launching this pilot, LTA intends to evaluate not just the technology itself but also the operational and regulatory frameworks needed to support driverless bus services at scale.
The Pilot Programme
The selected contractor will work closely with SBS Transit Ltd (SBST), the operator of existing bus services 191 and 400, to develop operational strategies for deploying autonomous buses. This hands-on collaboration will ensure a seamless transition between traditional and driverless bus services, ironing out potential challenges before a wider rollout.
- Safety First: During the initial phase, human bus captains will remain onboard as safety operators, overseeing operations and intervening if necessary.
- Compliance and Standards: The autonomous buses must adhere to strict safety regulations, including safe boarding and alighting at designated stops.
- Trial Period: The selected operator must run the autonomous fleet for at least six months under close supervision before transitioning to remote oversight.
LTA will actively monitor the buses in real time to assess their performance, ensuring they meet safety, reliability, and operational efficiency standards. This trial period will also help refine protocols for remote supervision once the technology proves its reliability.
The Roadmap: How the Trial Will Unfold
LTA plans to introduce six autonomous buses in mid-2026 as part of this three-year pilot programme. These buses will run alongside conventionally operated services, allowing for a direct comparison of performance, efficiency, and passenger experience.
Should the trial prove successful, LTA may expand the programme by acquiring up to 14 additional autonomous buses, increasing the scope to cover two more public bus services. This phased approach enables a controlled and data-driven expansion, ensuring that any potential risks or challenges are mitigated before full-scale deployment.
What LTA is Looking For
Interested companies must submit proposals detailing their technological capabilities, operational strategies, and infrastructure requirements. Key evaluation criteria include:
- Technological Maturity: The robustness of the AV system, its ability to navigate Singapore’s urban environment, and its track record in previous deployments.
- Fleet Management and Remote Operations: The effectiveness of fleet monitoring and intervention mechanisms.
- Infrastructure and Charging Solutions: The provision of necessary support systems for maintaining and charging the electric autonomous buses.
- Operational Readiness: Experience in deploying autonomous buses locally or internationally.
- Safety and Compliance: Adherence to LTA’s operational and passenger safety requirements.
The Future of Driverless Public Transport
With cities worldwide exploring autonomous mobility solutions, Singapore’s move aligns with global trends towards reducing reliance on human drivers and leveraging AI-driven transport networks. Countries like Sweden, China, and the United States have already launched their own trials, but Singapore’s controlled, government-led approach sets it apart.
The RFP closes in Q2 of 2025, with the contract expected to be awarded by the end of the year. This timeline provides sufficient scope for rigorous evaluation and industry participation, ensuring that only the most competent and innovative solutions make the cut.
A Smart and Sustainable Vision
Singapore’s commitment to smart urban transport is well-documented. From its autonomous taxis to driverless metro trains, the nation has consistently pushed the boundaries of intelligent mobility. If this pilot succeeds, it could pave the way for a broader rollout of self-driving buses, significantly reducing traffic congestion, improving energy efficiency, and enhancing commuter experience.
With this initiative, Singapore is not just adapting to the future—it’s shaping it.
