SMRT to showcase automated vehicle system by year-end

SMRT Corporation will showcase an automated vehicle system in Singapore by the end of this year, in partnership with the system's Dutch developer.

SMRT Services, a division of the rail operator, on Wednesday announced a joint venture (JV) to market, supply and operate Netherlands-based 2getthere's automated vehicles in the region.

The new Singapore-based JV will be 51 per cent owned by SMRT and 49 per cent by 2getthere. It will be called 2getthere Asia Pte Ltd and aims to showcase the latest-generation Group Rapid Transit (GRT) vehicle's capabilities.

The GRT is a six-metre-long pod-like vehicle which can carry up to 24 passengers. 2getthere also has a smaller automated vehicle model called the PRT or Personal Rapid Transit which can accommodate four to six passengers.

SMRT Services' managing director Colin Lim said: "There is a growing national push to implement future mobility solutions that can meet our first and last-mile connectivity needs in Singapore. As part of the JV, SMRT Services will leverage on our experience in installation, operations and maintenance of transit systems to realise these solutions locally."

He added that SMRT has been in active discussions with a few partners to launch an automated vehicle system on their premises. Alternatively, he said SMRT could do it on its own premises.

It is understood that 2getthere has already completed a feasibility study regarding the latter.