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Singapore Launches Vehicle Scrappage Scheme for Cleaner Air

  //automotive-transportation.news-articles.net/co .. es-vehicle-scrappage-scheme-for-cleaner-air.html
  Published in Automotive and Transportation on Wednesday, January 28th 2026 at 5:41 GMT by Lowyat.net
      Locales: Selangor, Pahang, Penang, MALAYSIA

Singapore, Wednesday, January 28th, 2026 - The Ministry of Transport (MOT) today announced an accelerated vehicle scrappage scheme, targeting approximately 5,000 older vehicles for voluntary retirement. This initiative forms a crucial part of Singapore's ongoing commitment to improving air quality, reducing carbon emissions, and fostering a more sustainable transportation ecosystem. The scheme prioritizes vehicles registered before 2012, acknowledging that these represent a disproportionately large source of pollutants compared to newer models.

The announcement comes as Singapore continues to grapple with the challenges of urban pollution, particularly particulate matter and nitrogen oxides, which contribute to respiratory issues and exacerbate climate change. While the nation has made significant strides in public transport and EV adoption, a substantial number of older, less efficient vehicles remain on the road, hindering broader environmental goals.

"We recognize that many Singaporeans rely on their vehicles for daily commuting and other essential needs," stated a spokesperson for the MOT. "However, older vehicles, despite being well-maintained, simply do not meet the stringent emission standards of modern cars. This scrappage scheme offers a practical and financially attractive solution for vehicle owners to contribute to a cleaner, healthier Singapore."

The scheme isn't merely about removing older vehicles; it's strategically aligned with Singapore's broader push towards electric vehicle (EV) adoption. The MOT expects a significant number of participants will use the incentive to upgrade to newer, more environmentally friendly vehicles - ideally, electric or hybrid models. Recent data indicates a surge in EV registrations, spurred by government subsidies and the expansion of charging infrastructure across the island. This new scheme is expected to further accelerate this trend.

While the exact financial incentives are yet to be detailed, the MOT confirmed they will be competitive enough to make scrapping a viable option for a large segment of older vehicle owners. Sources suggest the incentives may be tiered, with higher amounts offered for vehicles in poorer condition or those that fail upcoming, stricter emissions testing. The Ministry is also exploring potential partnerships with automotive dealerships to offer bundled deals that combine the scrappage incentive with discounts on new EV purchases.

The move has been welcomed by environmental advocacy groups. "This is a positive step in the right direction," said Ms. Lim Mei Ling, director of the Sustainable Transport Coalition. "Removing these older vehicles will have a measurable impact on air quality, especially in densely populated areas. It's important, however, that the scheme is well-executed and accessible to all eligible vehicle owners."

However, some industry analysts predict logistical challenges. Managing the disposal of 5,000 vehicles within a relatively short timeframe will require significant capacity from authorized vehicle dismantling and recycling facilities. The MOT has assured the public that it is working closely with these facilities to ensure a smooth and environmentally responsible process. There are also questions surrounding the potential impact on Certificate of Entitlement (COE) prices. Removing 5,000 vehicles from the pool could, theoretically, lead to a slight decrease in COE demand, though experts believe other factors, such as economic growth and population trends, will likely play a more significant role.

The MOT is expected to release comprehensive details regarding eligibility criteria and incentive amounts within the next two weeks via its official website and social media channels. Vehicle owners are strongly advised to stay informed and consider their options. This expanded scrappage scheme represents a bold move towards a greener future for Singapore, demonstrating the nation's commitment to balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability.