Singapore’s Taxi Scene Gets a New Teenager
On a sunny Tuesday, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) pulled a big‑screen announcement: HDT Singapore Taxi (HDTT) has officially earned a full‑fledged taxi licence.
After a two‑year trial with 100 electric taxis under the Transport Innovation and Development Scheme, HDTT proved it’s not just a flash in the pan. The LTA said the company’s business plan, org chart, past record, and finances all line up to show the venture can run a smooth, full‑service taxi operation.
What the Licence Means for HDTT
- By August 31, HDTT must re‑classify its entire fleet from e‑taxis to regular taxis.
- Over the next four years, the company will steadily grow its squad to at least 800 e‑taxis in Singapore.
With just 100 vehicles, HDTT is currently the tiniest taxi firm in the city. Their flag‑down figure stands at a sweet $3.90, a price point that’s hard to beat.
Singapore’s Taxi Totals
- Total taxis (as of Dec 31, 2017): 23,140.
- ComfortDelGro, the industry giant, operates 13,244 of those.
HDTT will also need to roll out enough charging stations across the archipelago to keep its fleet humming. Compliance with service standards and availability metrics is a must; you can’t once a plug is set up and then leave it hanging.
The New Seven‑Buddy Club
HDTT’s entry turns Singapore’s taxi landscape into a seven‑operator playground.
- Comfort
- CityCab
- SMRT Taxis
- Trans‑Cab
- Premier Taxis
- Prime Taxi
- HDT Singapore Taxi (new kid on the block)
With the fresh competition, drivers can expect more options, commuters more choices, and perhaps the city to finally stay green—one battery at a time.
