Singapore is trialing a new location-based electronic road pricing system using painted blue zones instead of traditional gantries.
This shift represents a fundamental change in how the city-state manages traffic congestion. By removing physical gantries, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) aims to create a more flexible and scalable charging infrastructure that can adapt to changing traffic patterns without requiring new construction.
About 1,000 motorists [1] are participating in the pilot trial. The system utilizes a new on-board unit (OBU) that automatically records charges as vehicles enter specific zones. To signal these charging areas, the LTA is testing blue road markings, and specific signage at five selected locations [2].
Testing for these markings and signs took place throughout June and July 2024 [3]. The LTA said the effectiveness of these visual cues is being evaluated to ensure drivers can clearly identify charging zones before a full rollout occurs.
"The effectiveness of possible road signs and markings for the next‑generation ERP system will be tested at five more locations in June and July," the LTA said [3].
The transition has not been without technical concerns, particularly among owners of electric vehicles. Some Tesla owners raised questions regarding the installation of the OBU and the need for external batteries. The LTA addressed these safety concerns by clarifying that the required battery device meets global standards and does not charge continuously, the agency said.
This trial serves as a critical proof-of-concept for the ERP 2 system. By monitoring how 1,000 drivers [1] interact with the blue zones and the OBU, officials can determine if the visual markers are sufficient to prevent driver confusion or safety hazards on the road.
“About 1,000 motorists are taking part in a trial of the new ERP 2 location-based charging system”
The move toward location-based charging marks a transition from hardware-heavy infrastructure to a software-driven model. If successful, this allows the government to implement 'virtual' gantries, enabling more precise congestion pricing and the ability to change charging zones in real-time without the cost or physical footprint of traditional overhead structures.
