Singapore’s Green Fleet Just Got a Power Boost!
What’s New?
- 20 brand‑new single‑deck electric buses have joined the ride.
- They’re from ST Engineering Mobility Services (STEMoS), not BYD or Yutong‑NARI.
- Starting 25 August 2021, these buses will start cruising on routes 38, 40, 176, and 976.
- They’ll complement the current 40 electric buses already on the road since November 2020.
Charging – The New Twist
- Unlike the first batch that used standard plug‑ins, the fresh 20 buses will be gorged with tram‑style pantograph chargers.
- These sleek chargers sit strategically in Bedok and Bukit Panjang Bus Interchanges.
- Picture a bus waving to its waiting charger, like a friend catching a lift to the next adventure!
Why the Change?
- Tram‑style charging means faster re‑fueling and better compatibility with the city’s rail infrastructure.
- It’s another step toward Singapore’s pledge to a cleaner, quieter future for commuters.
Next Stop: A Greener Journey
- With these new buses, the LTA’s electric fleet is stepping up its game.
- Passengers can look forward to smoother, greener rides on their daily commutes while the city keeps getting a breath of fresh air.
New Electric Buses Roll Out with High‑Power Charging
Ever wondered what happens when an electric bus is given a power surge? Singapore’s Land Transport Authority (LTA) has just handed us the answer: pantograph charging that roars up to a mouth‑watering 450 kW during those little 10‑to‑15‑minute stops at bus interchanges.
Quick “Hook‑Up” and Short‑Return Fashion
- Rapid charge splash: The bus is patched up to the grid and then pulls away after the quick tap.
- No lingering trailers: Unlike Hong Kong’s trams, the pantograph slips back into hiding once the batteries hit full charge.
Silence is Golden (and Awesome)
Feel the whispers? The new buses hum at just around 75 dB, which is three decibels lower than your typical Euro 6 diesel ride. That’s like swapping a traffic jam for a quiet coffee shop.
Designed for Traffic Flow… and a Smile
- Third door magic: A new exit at the rear encourages commuters to shuffle over, easing congestion and giving a “whoosh” to the whole process.
- Stroller‑friendly front: No centre pole roars through the front door, making it easier for parents and their little movers.
Smart Screens for Smart Riders
Every bus now sports handy displays that show the next stops and destinations. It’s like a personal guide that keeps you in the loop—no more guessing where the bus will hop off next.
Accessibility for All
- Wheelchair friendly: Passengers with wheels glide into the middle door via a ramp, with a friendly Bus Captain ready to assist.
Downtime? Parental stress? Commuter frustration? Those are things of the past. With the third door, no‑pole front, and nifty chargers, the new electric buses promise smoother, quieter, and more inclusive rides. Stay tuned, because Singapore’s streets just got a whole lot greener and friendlier.
