Singapore Embarks on Ambitious Decarbonization Journey: Diesel Vehicles to be Phased Out In a bold move towards a cleaner and greener future, Singapore has announced plans to cease registering new diesel vehicles and taxis from January 1, 2025. This transformative policy marks a significant milestone in the city-state’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions and improve air quality. Diesel vehicles have long been a major source of air pollution, emitting harmful particulates and nitrogen oxides. By phasing out diesel vehicles, Singapore aims to reduce these emissions and establish a more sustainable transportation system. The move aligns with the government’s ambitious target of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. The policy applies to all new diesel vehicles, including private cars, buses, and taxis. However, existing diesel vehicles will be allowed to continue operating until the end of their lifespan. To support the transition to cleaner alternatives, the government has announced a range of incentives for electric vehicles (EVs). These incentives include rebates for EV purchases, reduced road tax, priority parking, and access to dedicated charging stations. The government is also investing in expanding the charging infrastructure to make EV ownership more convenient. The transition away from diesel will have a positive impact on Singapore’s air quality and public health. Reduced emissions will lead to cleaner air and lower rates of respiratory illnesses. Additionally, the shift to EVs will help to reduce Singapore’s dependence on fossil fuels, enhancing its energy security. Singapore’s decision to phase out diesel vehicles is in line with global trends. Many countries and cities around the world are adopting similar measures to address climate change and improve air quality. By making this bold move, Singapore is demonstrating its commitment to sustainability and its aspiration to be a world-leading green city.Singapore to Phase Out New Diesel Cars and TaxisSingapore to Phase Out New Diesel Cars and Taxis As part of the Government’s drive towards cleaner energy vehicles, new diesel cars and taxis will no longer be registered in Singapore from January 1, 2025. This move aligns with the goal of having all vehicles on Singapore’s roads running on cleaner energy by 2040. The announcement was made in Parliament three years ago, and since then, the share of new diesel car and taxi registrations has remained below 1%. The upcoming ban comes before all new cars and taxis registered here must be cleaner-energy models from 2030. Diesel cars registered before January 1, 2025, will be able to renew their COE after the deadline, but will face higher road taxes to discourage such renewals. However, the ban will not apply to the importation and registration of cars under the classic vehicle and vintage vehicle regimes. As of May 2024, there were 19,972 diesel-powered cars and taxis in Singapore. While taxis were previously primarily diesel-powered, a significant majority have switched to gasoline-electric hybrid or electric models. The government has implemented initiatives like the Early Delivery Scheme and the Commercial Vehicle Emissions Scheme to encourage commercial vehicle owners to transition to cleaner fuels. By promoting the adoption of cleaner energy vehicles, Singapore aims to reduce its carbon footprint and create a more sustainable transportation system.Singapore will stop registering new diesel vehicles and taxis from 1 January 2025, as part of its efforts to reduce emissions and improve air quality. The move is part of the government’s Green Plan 2030, which aims to make Singapore a more sustainable and environmentally friendly city. Diesel vehicles produce more emissions than petrol vehicles, including particulate matter, nitrogen oxides, and carbon dioxide. These emissions can contribute to respiratory problems, smog, and climate change. The ban on new diesel vehicles and taxis is expected to have a significant impact on the automotive industry in Singapore. Diesel vehicles currently make up about 10% of the total vehicle population in Singapore. The government is encouraging car buyers to switch to cleaner alternatives, such as electric vehicles, hybrid vehicles, or petrol vehicles. The government is also providing incentives to encourage the adoption of electric vehicles, such as rebates and grants. The ban on new diesel vehicles and taxis is a significant step towards reducing emissions and improving air quality in Singapore. It is part of the government’s broader efforts to make Singapore a more sustainable and environmentally friendly city.