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SINGAPORE: The Land Transport Authority (LTA) is studying whether data from the new on-board unit (OBU) in vehicles can be sent to smartphones, allowing them to be used as an alternative display screen for information of electronic road pricing (ERP).
This is a “possible future update” for the OBU, State Minister for Transport Amy Khor said in Parliament on Monday (5 October).
It was announced last month that the installation of the OBU, replacing the current In-Vehicle Units (UI), will begin in the second half of 2021. They will be used when Singapore switches to the next-generation satellite-based ERP system -2023.
Dr. Khor said authorities are consulting with authorized motor vehicle dealers and workshops on the best way to install the OBUs.
“For example, the OBU display unit can be installed in cars so that the windshield blockage is minimal and it can be folded,” he said.
“As for what to show on the display unit, in fact it shouldn’t be distracting or affect security. LTA intends to present some options for collecting public feedback. For example, the screen can be kept black for most of the time. time and show only ERP charges are paid when a transaction takes place. “
READ: New ERP units to be installed from the second half of 2021; still unchanged in congestion pricing framework
Dr Khor was answering questions from several Members of Parliament asking if the OBU’s design can be improved, if the display will distract drivers, and if most of its functions can be replaced by a smartphone in the future.
SAFETY FEATURES, OPERATIONAL CONCERNS
Explaining the unit’s design, Dr. Khor said that Singapore’s Cybersecurity Agency had warned that core collection transactions and ERP data must be “processed safely and with high assurance.”
Therefore, OBUs have been designed to “maintain the necessary protection for this purpose,” with security features superior to those of a mobile phone, he noted.
The size of the OBU is only “a little larger” than the current UI, Dr. Khor said.
It added that with the exception of motorcycles, the processing unit in vehicles will be installed under the dash and separated from the display unit on the windshield due to heat issues.
“This is necessary because the OBU uses global navigation satellite technology and is actually a small computer,” he explained.
“There will be safety and reliability concerns to leave the processing unit on the dash when vehicles with enclosed spaces are parked in the sun, similar to how we will not expose our smartphones in the same way.”
The new on-board unit for vehicles other than motorcycles. (Photo: LTA)
Dr. Khor also pointed out potential operational problems with the use of smartphones.
“Motorists should remember to bring their smartphones, make sure they are sufficiently charged, that they are connected to the cellular network, and that the ERP payment application is launched throughout the journey,” he said.
“Numerous unwanted and inconvenient failed transactions are likely to occur. Therefore, LTA concluded that it is better to process payments through a dedicated and integrated OBU, similar to the current In-Vehicle Unit (UI). “
READ: New ERP Units: Transportation Minister Ong Ye Kung Addresses 7 Common Questions From Motorists
Dr. Khor said that for the new ERP system to be implemented smoothly, standardized display screens should be used.
He noted the urgency of implementing next-generation ERP, noting that with the existing gantry-based system reaching the end of its operational life, maintenance is becoming increasingly difficult and expensive.
“Let the system stabilize, we will see (the use of smartphones) and then when possible we can offer it to drivers and they can replace their display unit. And for new car owners, they can opt for that in the future, ”he added.
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In response to Sengkang GRC deputy He Ting Ru, who asked if a public consultation had been held on the OBU design, Dr. Khor said there were “practical limitations” to doing so.
Noting that there is currently no similar system in the world, the Senior Minister of State said that LTA was contractually bound after the award of the tender.
“(LTA) could have specified that the winning bidder must undergo a major public consultation exercise and make significant changes to the design to receive public comment, but that will add significant uncertainty that will delay the project and raise bid prices, ” she said.
Later, Ms He asked if “more flexibility” could be offered for future tenders, given the rapid advances in technology.
Dr. Khor said that the Government is aware of possible technological advances.
He added that there is room for consultation on the project, noting that the designated contractor had conducted internal inquiries and contracted with Nanyang University of Technology to conduct a “human factor study” on what should be included in the graphical user interface, including the study of screen safety for drivers.
