ERP 2.0: What Can It Do and How Does it Affect You?

(Photo Credit: Pulsamerica)

Come 2020, the current ERP gantry system will be defunct. The new ERP system will be a full satellite, however, it is not as cool as it sound. Check out what it can do, and how it affects you as a driver.

Where will the new ERP locations be?

Well, it only applies to congested roads and highways, and will focus on precise spots where jams occur. This satellite navigation technology also means island-wide coverage.

What else can it do?

It has the technology to charge drivers for the distance they have travelled in their cars. It also means no more street parking with coupons. It could also automatically charge drivers for off-peak car usage.

Last but not least, it could also inform all road users on real-time traffic information and help drivers avoid jams and determine better travelling routes.

How can it do all this?

You'll be getting a new in-vehicle unit, free of charge. The new IU is the size of a smartphone and can communicate with a central computer system via 4G.

Hold on, does that mean I'll being watched 24/7?

Yes and no. The data collected is anonymised and can be calibrated. It's solely to provide a more accurate reading and to facilitate traffic flow.

How long do I have to adapt?

There's an 18-month transition period for you to get adjusted. During that time, you can switch your IU for the new one.

How much will this cost me?

The IU is free, and you can expect no significant changes during the transition period, unless they decide to go with distance-based charging. LTA is looking into the feasibility of this option.

Distance-based charging? Please elaborate!

It is exactly what it sounds like. Motorists will be charged based on the distance that they travel by car. By doing so, drivers will probably think twice about leaving their homes with their vehicles. This initiative is aimed at turning Singapore into a more car-light society.

Nothing is set in stone just yet, so stay tuned to Motorist.sg for future developments.

Read more: LTA to Test Satellite-Based ERP and Number Plate Recognition Camera Systems

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