Singapore’s ERP Evolution: the controversial On-Board Unit (OBU) has finally debuted.
The Land Transport Authority (LTA) just announced that they are rolling out the new On-Board Unit (OBU), the brainchild of ERP 2.0. This little (is it really little though?) is set to transform the way we handle road charges. Here’s the scoop on this new tech.
The IU, faithful companion for 25 long years, is now making way for the new kid on the block. And first in line for this OBU upgrade are fleet vehicles registered to companies and organisations, starting on the 1st of November.
As we welcome 2024, new vehicles will be equipped with the OBU right from the get-go. As for the rest of our trusty rides, installations will be doled out in batches, depending on their age.
Worried about how you’ll know when it’s your turn? Don’t be. LTA’s got your back. They’ll drop you a letter, an email, or even an SMS – they’re all about keeping you in the loop. There’s a two-month grace period for a free OBU installation, so it’s easy on your wallet. The grand plan is to have this OBU revolution completed by the end of 2025.
Now, let’s dive into what makes this OBU a head-turner, and something that has sparked national debate. Forget about the basic IU; this has got three pieces – a processing unit, an antenna, and a touchscreen display. That touchscreen display not only displays ERP charges and card balance info, it also provides real-time road updates. Silver Zones? Check. School Zones? Check. Speed cameras and bus lanes? Check and check.
Motorcycles are also getting an update, but their OBU units only consist of a single unit. Lucky.
Owners will have the power to decide too. Don’t want the display? No problem, LTA is all ears. You can download their ERP 2.0 app on your smartphone or pick from a list of third-party apps listed on LTA’s OneMotoring website. However, to get the full scoop of OBU features, including the option to pay for roadside parking, LTA suggests you go all in and install all three components.
LTA has also announced that there will be no adjustments to ERP charges during this transition period. Plus, for all you tech whizzes out there, LTA has thrown in a software development kit (SDK) for software developers to create apps that can display ERP 2.0 data. Don’t worry, your data’s safe and sound; no unauthorised readings or changes here. We hope.
Even if you hate it, there’s no stopping the OBU from being rolled out. So, let’s get ready for ERP 2.0 and embrace the touchscreen revolution.
Photo Credits: Land Transport Authority (LTA) and Channel News Asia (CNA)
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