Technological advancements in autonomous vehicles aim to address significant challenges in urban transportation, particularly the growing shortage of bus drivers. Harold Teng, chief project coordinator at MKX Technologies, noted this issue during the Singapore Urban Mobility Week 2026, highlighting that many young people in Singapore are less interested in pursuing careers as bus drivers.
Government data released in July indicated that Singapore has 9,900 bus captains, with 57% aged between 41 and 60, 13% over 60, and foreign workers making up 60% of the driving workforce. In response to this dilemma, MKX Technologies partnered with China’s MOGOX and carmaker BYD to secure a pilot project for autonomous buses awarded by Singapore’s Land Transport Authority. Six buses are expected to be deployed in this initiative.
During the event, the trio of companies revealed an 8.5-meter right-hand-drive Level 4 autonomous electric bus designed specifically for Singapore’s climate and traffic regulations. Lyu Bin, vice president of MOGOX, emphasized the use of local road data to enhance the vehicles’ operational capabilities, including adapting to Singapore’s frequent and unpredictable rainfall. The latest bus model includes rain sensors to adjust speed and can revert control to a safety operator in extreme weather conditions.
Over 200 companies participated in the exhibition, showcasing innovations ranging from autonomous vehicles to AI-driven traffic management systems. Experts pointed out that China is leading in intelligent-driving technology through an approach known as “vehicle-road-cloud integration,” where vehicles and infrastructure interact to optimize traffic flow.
Hikvision, a Chinese video surveillance provider, displayed an AI application that analyzes traffic conditions via roadside cameras. Product manager Lin Hongxun explained how these cameras monitor vehicle speed and traffic density. The system can identify congestion patterns and can suggest measures like rerouting traffic or adjusting traffic light durations to alleviate pressure on busy intersections.
Some elements of this traffic management system are already in use on roads in Singapore and have been implemented in several other countries, including the Philippines and Malaysia. While traffic management technologies tackle road congestion, rail systems encounter unique issues like minimizing delays and enhancing passenger comfort.
Casco, a company specializing in rail transit control systems, introduced its Tranavi signaling system, which utilizes communications-based train control (CBTC). Engineer Zhang Xuan detailed that this system enables trains to run more frequently, reducing intervals from 120 seconds to 90 seconds. Casco has contributed to more than 120 urban signaling projects worldwide, including 32 fully driverless rail lines operating at the highest level of automation.
The focus on technology extends beyond efficiency; smoothness of the ride is critical for passenger experience. The Automatic Train Operation (ATO) subsystem regulates acceleration, speed, and braking. Zhang explained that great attention to detail is required for optimal performance, replacing human drivers with advanced software controls. The system also optimizes energy consumption by allowing trains to coast effectively, which can further enhance operational efficiency.
