Singapore Awards Groundbreaking Contract for Level 4 Autonomous Bus Trial

16-passenger L4 autonomous e-bus envisioned in operation in Singapore.

By EVWorld.com Si Editorial Team

Singapore, October 2025 - In a major step toward transforming urban mobility, Singapore?s Land Transport Authority (LTA) has awarded a pioneering contract to a consortium led by MKX Technologies, Zhidao Network Technology (operating under the brand MOGOX), and BYD Singapore. The project will deploy Level 4 autonomous electric buses on public roads beginning in the second half of 2026.

The trial marks Singapore''s first real-world implementation of fully autonomous buses in daily public transport, with the goal of enhancing last-mile connectivity and addressing manpower constraints in the transport sector. Level 4 autonomy refers to vehicles capable of operating without human intervention under defined conditions, a significant leap from current assisted-driving technologies.

Under the contract, six 16-seater autonomous electric buses will be deployed on two existing public bus routes: Service 191 in the one-north business park and Service 400 in the Marina Bay area. These routes were selected for their strategic importance and relatively controlled environments, making them ideal for initial testing.

MOGOX will provide the full-stack autonomous driving technology, including advanced sensors such as LiDAR, radar, and cameras, as well as the software systems for navigation and fleet management. BYD, a global leader in electric vehicle manufacturing, will supply the buses, modeled after its J6 electric minibus currently in use in Japan. MKX Technologies will oversee local research and development, integration, and project management.

To ensure safety during the initial phase, each autonomous bus will be staffed with a safety operator who can take control if necessary. The trial will also include rigorous monitoring and data collection to assess vehicle performance, passenger experience, and operational reliability.

LTA officials emphasized that the pilot is part of Singapore?s broader strategy to embrace smart mobility solutions and reduce reliance on human drivers. If successful, the trial could pave the way for a larger rollout of autonomous buses, with potential fleet expansion to 100?150 vehicles in the coming years.

?This initiative reflects Singapore?s commitment to innovation and sustainability in public transport,? said an LTA spokesperson. ?By leveraging cutting-edge technology and strategic partnerships, we aim to build a more efficient, inclusive, and future-ready transport system.?

The autonomous bus trial is expected to contribute to Singapore?s Smart Nation goals and support its transition to a low-carbon economy. It also positions the city-state as a regional leader in autonomous vehicle deployment, joining a growing list of global cities experimenting with driverless public transport.

Public engagement and education campaigns will accompany the rollout to familiarize commuters with the new technology and address safety concerns. The consortium will work closely with LTA to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and to refine operational protocols based on real-world feedback.

As the countdown to 2026 begins, Singapore?s streets may soon host a new generation of buses?quiet, electric, and driverless?ushering in a new era of urban mobility.

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