Written Reply to Parliamentary Question on Plans on Phasing Out of Sales of Internal Combustion Engine Motorcycles

Mr Yip Hon Weng asked the Minister for Transport

a. whether there are plans to phase out the sales of internal combustion engine (ICE) motorcycles similar to Singapore's commitment to phase out sales of ICE cars by 2030; and

b. in light of a local firm shelving its plans to launch a battery swop service for electric vehicles, whether the Government plans to step in and support the initiative for such service.

Reply by Minister for Transport Chee Hong Tat:

1. There are no current plans to phase out the sale of internal combustion engine motorcycles by 2030 as the electric motorcycle market segment is relatively nascent.

2. Similar to electric cars, the availability of safe and reliable charging infrastructure is critical in enabling the adoption of electric motorcycles. Compatible electric motorcycles with fixed batteries can charge at the electric vehicles charging points deployed at Housing and Development Board carparks. However, many popular electric motorcycle models abroad have detachable batteries and inappropriate charging of such batteries may result in serious fire hazards. We are thus working with industry to facilitate safe modes of charging for such models, including battery charge and swap stations (BCSS) and controlled off-board charging environments.

3. To date, Land Transport Authority (LTA) has approved two BCSS applications from industry players. The Ministry of Transport/LTA will continue to work with the industry to explore charging solutions that meet our local needs, with safety being a paramount consideration.