Singapore to test-beds electric vehicles

A multi-agency taskforce has been set up to spearhead the test-bedding of Electric Vehicles in Singapore. It will be chaired by the Energy Market Authority and Land Transport Authority.

Based on the results of the pilot, the taskforce will also evaluate the scope for larger scale adoption of EVs in future, as the technology matures.

The EV test-bedding programme will examine infrastructure requirements and new business models arising from electric vehicles, as well as to identify industry and R&D opportunities. The test-bed will be open to all auto manufacturers and technology companies interested in shaping the future of electric transport. $20 million has been set aside as part of this programme to support infrastructure development and test-bed electric vehicles.

"Singapore is well-positioned for the deployment of EVs because of our compact urban environment, and robust electrical grid and IT infrastructure," said Mr Lawrence Wong, Chief Executive, EMA.

According to Wong, the test-bed will provide an open platform for companies to test out different EV prototypes and charging technologies.

"At the same time, we would like to do more research in the concept of vehicle-to-grid power. In particular, if EVs are able to provide power to the grid during peak periods, and draw power from the grid during off-peak periods, they will help to level the demand (load) on the grid, thereby enabling our power system to operate more efficiently," Wong stated.

The EV test-bed also offers potential economic benefits for manufacturing and R&D, for example, in areas like battery technology, power electronics and electric drive systems. Singapore's capabilities in electronics and R&D will enable it to attract and anchor such new and high-value activities.

To kickstart the test-bedding initiative, Memorandums of Understanding have been signed with two parties: Renault-Nissan and Keppel Energy. Under the MOUs, Renault-Nissan will supply EVs to the Singapore market and share its knowledge of EVs to develop common standards, while Keppel Energy will focus on developing charging stations and other infrastructure to support the test-bedding of EVs. The taskforce will work closely with these industry partners to prepare for the first batch of EVs on Singapore roads by 2010.

The EV test-bed is expected to run for three years, between 2010 and 2012, and will also serve as a platform for companies to experiment and adapt innovative solutions for use in other countries.