[category]
[title]
Singapore's public transport is taking one step forward into the future with its first driverless public buses set to be tested on real routes from mid-2026.
These driverless buses are the result of a collaboration between BYD, Zhidao Network Technology, and MKX Technologies. As of now, the first of six autonomous buses has already arrived in the city earlier this month and is undergoing several safety checks.
If the thought of an empty driver’s seat makes you nervous, you’re not alone. However, there’s no need to panic, these buses aren’t being let loose randomly – they’ll start in a closed-circuit playground, running drills on everything from basic turns to safely letting passengers on and off at all the right stops. Only after perfecting the test will they graduate to real streets, and even so, they will still be driving alongside the usual human-driven buses. If all goes according to plan, these buses will be trialled on Service 400 in Marina Bay and Service 191 in one-north from the second half of 2026.
The three-year pilot will play out across two very different backdrops. Service 400 loops past landmarks like Marina Bay Cruise Centre, Gardens by the Bay, and key stops along Shenton Way and Downtown. Meanwhile, Service 191 serves the one-north district, connecting commuters to Buona Vista Bus Terminal and nearby MRT stations including one-north and Buona Vista.
Inside each 16-seater are cameras and sensors at the front, rear and roof, giving operators a full 360-degree view of its surroundings. Apart from that, it’s business as usual: a familiar bus layout, complete with a dedicated wheelchair space.
If the trial proves successful, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) has the option to procure 14 more buses and expand the programme to additional routes across Singapore.
Find out more about LTA’s plans here.
READ MORE
Singapore Airlines launches daily direct flights to Western Sydney’s new airport from November 23
Asia's 50 Best Restaurants 2026: 6 Singapore restaurants in the top 50