In true Singaporean fashion, it seems like we always have something new to complain about.

In Oct 2023, the launch of ERP 2.0 left many people scratching their heads. You can watch this video to know more about ERP 2.0:

Not only is it more expensive to be on the road, but now, drivers are finding it difficult to use the new OBU system.

Luckily, Singapore’s Land Transport Authority (LTA) was receptive to the mixed feedback about the new system.

They published a video explaining their reasonings, and now, released a new change that can minimise the concerns some drivers had.

Here’s the complete timeline of what went down between road users and LTA, and the recent changes LTA made.

Awkward OBU Position

New vehicles are being designed such that the new on-board units (OBU) are no longer on the dashboard. Usually, having it there can allow you to see your cash card balance, and you easily take out and put in the card whenever you need.

The Viral Rant on TikTok About the New OBU that Started It All 

“Who’s the champion who came up with this idea ??!!”

This scathing comment indirectly calling out (LTA) was repeated again and again throughout @igniitionlabs’s TikTok video posted five days ago.

The video shows the user’s struggling attempts at trying to reach for the card reader located near the car’s glovebox. He struggled to locate the slot and insert the cash card in.

This video has since garnered 10.7k likes and over 1,300 comments from users who mostly shared the same sentiments.

LTA’s First Response – Protecting Against High Temperature

On Monday (29 Apr), LTA posted a video, in what might be an appeal to frustrated road users, explaining their reasons for the OBU’s new position.

The video demonstrates the sharp rise in the car’s internal temperature due to Singapore’s current hot weather.

Using a digital thermometer that senses the car’s temperature, it skyrocketed from 28.3°C to 52.4°C.

Meanwhile, at the new position, which is installed at the footwell, the temperature recorded was only 38.7°C.

Enclosed vs Opened – LTA Explains Why Motorcycles Have the One-Piece OBU

As mentioned, cars have OBUs that come in three pieces – touchscreen display, processing unit and antenna.

This is different from motorcycles which only have one. Therefore, some people were wondering why car users couldn’t enjoy the convenience that their biker friends have.

LTA emphasises the importance of keeping temperatures low. The car is essentially likened to an oven. When there is no ventilation, the temperature of the air inside will rise and whoever’s inside may be slow-roasted.

Because the motorcycles are parked outdoors, where there is wind and the build-up of hot air is not as intense, they can afford to have their OBUs within reach.

It seemed like their first response wasn’t satisfactory enough. LTA made a sharp U-turn when they announced on Thursday (2 May) that drivers are allowed to install the processing unit of the new OBU at the driver’s footwell.

However, they emphasised that the choice isn’t entirely up to you – some car models don’t allow for the processing unit to be on the driver’s side.

They said that drivers should consult their OBU sales representative or technician about their preferred OBU position. Technically, you’re allowed to position them anywhere so long as they can connect to the other parts and keep you safe while driving.

Ultimately, LTA wants us to know that installing the OBU’s processing unit on the dashboard and letting it sun tan or be oven-baked will eventually lead to it malfunctioning quickly.

They also reassured us that the antenna, located near the touchscreen display, will make sure your card gets detected at gantries and satellites. Now, you can also choose to fold up the touchscreen display if you don’t want to use it.

Lastly, they “encourage motorists to sign up for the NETS Auto Top-Up services to automatically reload the card”. This way, you don’t have to keep taking it out and slotting it back in to top-up.