In case you missed it, Singapore is trying to become a Smart Nation. And by that, we mean smart homes, smart transport and, of course, a smarter ERP.
While you don’t see much cars queueing up before the ERP while waiting for peak hour to be over anymore.
You’ll still have drivers using Google Maps to navigate and using the option of toll-free roads.
Very smart people.
But in 2 years time, you’re not going to be able to siam ERP anymore because smart charging (geddit? heh)
Here’s what drivers need to know.
New ERP system to come into play in 2020
If you thought you hated the current ERP we have since 1998, you’re going to absolutely detest the newer ERP system.
In February 2016, LTA announced that a new distance ERP will be implemented in Singapore in 2020.
They had asked for tenders from interested parties for the new system in 2015, and it was won by NCS and MHI Engine System.
This new system makes use of satellites in space to track your vehicle, and you will be charged ERP based on the distance your vehicle travel.
Yes, that’s right. Distance-based charging.
If you’re a taxi driver or deliveryman who’s always on the roads, then you’re going to pay a lot more ERP than someone who just drives to and from work.
I guess we’re going to see a sharp increase in fares liao.
So how do you know the system is coming into place?
Now, the new ERP system can’t track your current in-vehicle unit, right?
You’re going to have to get a new one.
It was announced that there will be an 18-month transition period going from the old (oh god, I love the current system now) to the new ERP system.
This period is for motorists on the roads to change their current units for the new “sophisticated, smartphone-sized onboard unit.”
The first swap is free-of-charge so you better get it.
So the moment the news read that you can go change your unit, can start the countdown already.
So what else is the unit useful for besides tracking your vehicle?
Here’s the good news, you don’t have to buy a navigator for your car anymore (although who still does that?)
The new in-vehicle unit comes with its own inbuilt SIM card and is able to perform as a basic navigation system.
That and tell you the charge of the route you’re going to take.
Other than that, the device is able to provide real-time traffic information, coupon-less streetside parking and automatically charge “red-plate” vehicles for driving during peak periods.
The device is also capable of monitoring driving speeds, according to National University of Singapore transport researcher Lee Der Horng.
Don’t worry, the new charging system won’t be live during the transition period
Land Transport Authority chief executive Chew Men Leong said that during the transition period, distance-charging will not be implemented.
On the flip side, the other functions of the new system will be available “from day one”.
They’ll look at easing in distance-charging after everyone has changed to a new in-vehicle unit.
Oh, you’re going to be watched by big brother all the time
One of the bidders for the LTA tender said that the device will be powered on 24/7, which means your location is always being tracked.
Although then-Transport Minister Lui Tuck Yew said they’ll “anonymise and aggregate the data” to mask the identities of the users.
And if you think you can siam in tunnels or in the CBD, they’re going to put signal beacons in to boost satellite signals.
So drivers, are you ready for this?
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This article was first published on goodyfeed.com
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