When it comes to owning your very own set of wheels and driving in Singapore, you’ll come to notice that we’ve got a ton of abbreviations for all our vehicle-related matters. From bidding for COE to avoiding highways to save on ERP, there’s no escaping them, and another one drivers ought to be aware of is OBU.
Short for On-Board Unit, it’s a new device that’s projected to be installed in all cars and motorcycles across the country once the current In-Vehicle Unit (IU) system gets phased out in the very near future. If your current ride isn’t installed with one, here’s all you need to know to get yours fitted for free, plus the deets on all its nifty features.
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An OBU, or On-Board Unit, is a satellite-based device that is installed on vehicles, which will replace the current ERP and IU system come end-2025. Drivers in Singapore might already be familiar with this new gadget, as it has been rolled out since early 2024.
But if you’re a newer road user who’s not familiar with the new-fangled OBUs, it’s thankfully not too daunting to get all caught up with all the hoo-ha surrounding it. Firstly, it’s made out of 3 components, namely an antenna box, touchscreen, and processing unit.
The end of an era.
Image credit: Motorist Singapore
The antenna box is what enables the OBU’s GPS functionality, letting it communicate with satellites, as the new ERP 2.0 system will be relying on it. This also means that bulky, physical gantries like the ones you see on expressways across Singapore will be done away with pretty soon.
The antenna box will be mounted on your car’s windscreen, along with a touchscreen. It displays information like road and traffic conditions, ERP and parking charges, and your cash card balance. Right now, other features include making missed ERP payments directly through the OBU, as well as paying for tolls at the Woodlands and Tuas Checkpoints.
Additional OBU functionalities to look forward to include receiving info such as real-time traffic incident notices, travel times to locations before entry into expressways, and alerts when approaching ERP-charging locations.
Image credit: Sgcarmart
Do note that the installation of the OBU’s touchscreen is optional; those who opt out can still get info via apps on their phones instead, such as the ERP 2.0 (App Store | Play Store). You’ll also have to register your smartphone with OneMotoring’s Digital Services if you want to pair it with your OBU.
Finally, the processing unit of your OBU is what enables it to make road-related transactions, as it will house your cash card. It’ll typically be affixed on the right side of the front passenger’s footwell. If you prefer for it to be installed elsewhere for better ease of access, do let the folks at the workshop know.
Image credit: Sgcarmart
As for those with motorcycles, your OBU consists of just a single part, and it’s built to withstand outdoor conditions, so you don’t have to worry about weather-proofing it.
If we’re talking about the present, no, it is not mandatory to install an OBU. However, that will soon change once the new ERP 2.0 system comes into effect towards the tail-end of 2025; only then will the installation of OBUs become mandatory for all road users.
If you’ve not gotten yours outfitted yet, the installation of an OBU is free, provided you install it by the deadline stated in the notice issued to you. Speaking of which, vehicle owners who’ve yet to install their OBU will receive a notice from the LTA to swap out their existing IU for one.
However, you need not wait till you get this letter or SMS from the LTA to get the process started, as you can choose to have your OBU installed early. To check if your vehicle is eligible for a free OBU installation, key in your vehicle plate number on LTA’s OBU information website.
The page will also direct you to workshops that can help you install your OBU. There are over 150 locations spread across the island, so you’ll definitely be able to find a workshop near you. Simply contact any one of them to make an appointment – OBU installation takes 2 to 4 hours, and anyone can take your vehicle on your behalf to the workshop to get it installed, as no documents are needed.
Previously, the LTA mentioned that there would be a partial installation fee of $35 and $70 for motorcycles and cars, respectively, should vehicle owners miss a 2-month window after being notified to get their OBUs installed. As of writing, this partial installation fee is waived even if you miss the 2-month window, but you are encouraged to get your unit installed ASAP to avoid any potential costs headed your way.
Image credit: Jurong-Clementi Town Council
For those who decide not to install an OBU before the ERP 2.0 system is rolled out later this year, you won’t be able to make ERP payments when you pass through ERP gantries. As such, you might be subject to paying a penalty of $70 for each operating ERP gantry you drive through.
In the blink of an eye, we are left with just a little under 2 months before 2025 is done and dusted. As such, it’s only a matter of time before we have to get accustomed to fiddling with our new OBUs, so we recommend that you get it installed before you jet off for your EOY holidays.
For more vehicle-related guides:
Cover image adapted from: Motorist Singapore, Vicom
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