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SBS Transit
SBS Transit
from Wikipedia

SBS Transit Ltd (abbreviation: SBS or SBST) is a multi-modal public transport operator in Singapore operating bus and rail services. With a majority of its shares owned by Singaporean multinational transport conglomerate ComfortDelGro Corporation at 75%, it was formerly known as Singapore Bus Services before rebranding to SBS Transit on 1 November 2001.

Key Information

It is the largest public bus operator in Singapore, as well as one of the two major operators of Singapore's rail services along with SMRT Corporation. It has a fleet of 3,329 buses and operates 196 routes, as of 2024.[2]

History

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Singapore Bus Services (1973‍–‍2001)

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1973‍–‍1978

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Singapore Bus Services Limited was established on 1 July 1973 when the regional bus companies Amalgamated Bus Company, Associated Bus Services and United Bus Company (which were in turn results of amalgamations of privately run Chinese bus companies of the 1960s in 1971) agreed to merge their operations with each taking shareholdings of 53%, 19% and 28% respectively in the new company.[3][4][5] The government-sanctioned merger was undertaken to improve service standards of the bus transport system.

SBS inherited many problems from its Chinese predecessors, including use of 14 non-standard bus models that frequently broke down, poor standards among the staff and inadequate infrastructure. Hence, the government seconded a Government Team of Officials to SBS in 1974 to overhaul the management and culture.[6] Under the supervision of the GTO, SBS completely overhauled their bus fleet with new buses of usually the Albion Viking or Mercedes-Benz OF1413 makes and introduced a rigorous maintenance regime, improving the reliability of their buses greatly whereas a new disciplinary code was introduced, reducing complaints by half from 1979 to 1983.[7]

In 1977, SBS introduced into service its first double-decker buses, the Leyland Atlantean AN68 on route 86 between Tampines Way and Shenton Way.[8]

In light of dissatisfaction over bus services in the Jurong area and requests for improved coverage, SBS started a reorganisation of bus services across the country, starting with Jurong. This consisted of a network of internal services serving a town, with external services terminating at a point in the town, along with bus interchanges to serve as such termini. Additional depots were also constructed, which SBS claimed gave them more control over bus operations.[9]

1978‍–‍2001

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The company was replaced by the Singapore Bus Service (1978) Limited on 17 February 1978.[10][11] In May 1978, the company implemented a rule that car owners were not allowed to purchase any shares, resulting in more than 5,000 applicants being unsuccessful. The stock was oversubscribed by about 27 times, with S$375 million received for 14 million shares at S$1.00 each.[12][13] The company was listed on the Stock Exchange of Singapore (SES) on 26 June 1978.[14]

In 1992, SBS were reorganised under a new subsidiary SBS Bus Services Pte Ltd.[11] On 12 November 1997, the original Singapore Bus Services (1978) Limited was renamed DelGro Corporation, with SBS Bus Services Pte Ltd listed separately as Singapore Bus Services Limited on 10 December that year.[15]

SBS also operated taxis as SBS Taxis. SBS Taxis merged with Singapore Commuter and Singapore Airport Bus Services on 1 July 1995 to form CityCab, which remained part of DelGro Corporation.[16][17][18]

SBS also operated Airbus in the past from 1995 to 1997 and Premium Bus Services, Sentosa Services and Jurong Island Services called "SBS Leisure" in 1995 to 2003. SBS had transferred Sentosa and Jurong Island Services in 2003, and Premium Bus Services (555 and 556) in December 2003 to private bus operators. 555 was a bus service from Watten Estate to Spottiswoode Park and 556 was a bus service from Sunset Way to Shenton Way, but it was totally withdrawn on 31 October 2004.

Route handovers

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Year Bus Package From To Reason
1983 Sembawang/Yishun/Woodlands Singapore Bus Services Trans-Island Bus Services
1995[19] Bukit Panjang Singapore Bus Services Trans-Island Bus Services Foster greater competition in the bus industry and to cushion the impact with the rationalisation of bus services caused by the opening of Woodlands MRT extension in 1996.
Sengkang/Punggol
1999[20] Choa Chu Kang Singapore Bus Services Trans-Island Bus Services The tender to operate the North East Line, Sengkang and Punggol LRT, and several bus services in the Sengkang and Punggol are awarded to SBS. In addition, bus tenders for Choa Chu Kang and Bukit Batok bus services are awarded to TIBS. This move is also to cushion the impact with the rationalisation of bus services caused by Bukit Panjang LRT in 1999, as well as to reduce congestion in depots (Bus 61, 67, 106 and 172).
Sengkang/Punggol Trans-Island Bus Services Singapore Bus Services
2000 Bukit Batok Singapore Bus Services Trans-Island Bus Services
2016 Jurong East SBS Transit Tower Transit Singapore Under the Bus Contracting Model from 2016 onwards.
Pasir Ris/Punggol SBS Transit Go-Ahead Singapore
2018 Yishun (selected) SMRT Buses SBS Transit
2024 Boon Lay/Joo Koon/Tuas SBS Transit SMRT Buses
2026 Tampines SBS Transit Go-Ahead Singapore

SBS Transit (2001–present)

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On 1 November 2001, Singapore Bus Services was rebranded as SBS Transit to reflect it becoming a multi-modal transport operator with the impending opening of the Sengkang LRT line and North East MRT line.[11]

On 29 March 2003, DelGro Corporation merged with Comfort Group to form ComfortDelGro Corporation.[11][21] ComfortDelGro Corporation owns 75% of the shares in SBS Transit.

On 18 January 2003, SBS Transit commenced operating the Sengkang LRT, followed by the North East MRT line on 20 June the same year.[22] SBS Transit commenced operating the Punggol LRT on 29 January 2005, followed by the Downtown MRT line on 22 December 2013.[23]

Bus

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Routes

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SBS Transit had operated the majority of routes in almost all towns of Singapore with the notable exception of Tuas, Joo Koon, Jurong West, Jurong East, Tengah, Bukit Batok, Choa Chu Kang, Bukit Panjang, Woodlands, Sembawang, Yishun, Punggol and Pasir Ris, where most routes were under SMRT Buses (Woodlands Bus Package, Choa Chu Kang-Bukit Panjang Bus Package & Jurong West Bus Package), Tower Transit (Bulim Bus Package & Sembawang-Yishun Bus Package) and Go-Ahead (Loyang Bus Package). As of 2025, there are 222 wheelchair-accessible bus services that SBS Transit operates.

SBS Transit later became the first local operator to win a tender under the BCM in April 2017, and began operating the Seletar Bus Package on 18 March 2018.[24] It was announced in 2018 by LTA that SBS Transit had won the subsequent package, the Bukit Merah Bus Package.[25]

In 2023, it was announced that SBS Transit retained the Bukit Merah Bus Package for its second term, but lost the bid for Jurong West Bus Package, which was awarded to SMRT Buses.[26] In July 2024, it was announced that SBS Transit retained the Seletar Bus Package for its second term.[27] In September 2025, it was announced that SBS Transit lost the bid for Tampines Bus Package, which was awarded to Go-Ahead.

New Express Feeder bus services 454 and 456 were launched. After service 454 was transferred to Go-Ahead Singapore, service 456 became the only Express Feeder service under SBS Transit.

Vehicle fleet

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A MAN A22 bus that was transferred to SBS Transit from SMRT Buses in 2018 as part of the Seletar Bus Package
The three-door and two-staircase concept bus MAN A95 (Gemilang Mk2) demonstrator, which was introduced in 2015 and is currently operated by SBS Transit since 2018

As of December 2019, SBS Transit operated more than 3,500 buses.[28]

SBS Transit operates a mix of single decker, double decker and articulated buses.[29]

Single deckers

Double deckers

Articulated buses

Former vehicle fleet

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A 1989 Scania N113CRB still bearing the original SBS livery at Bedok Bus Interchange.
SBS Transit purchased 12 Volgren-bodied CNG Volvo B10BLE buses.

When SBS was first formed in 1973, it inherited a wide variety of buses of various makes from its Chinese predecessors. Examples of such buses included the Albion Viking, Mercedes-Benz LP1113 and OF1413 and Nissan Diesel RX102K3 with small numbers of Ford R192 and 226, Seddon, Fargo-Kew, Bedford and Austin.[31] Most of these buses were bodied by local coachbuilder Soon Chow although some were bodied by other companies such as Supreme Star and Strachan.[32] Subsequent models that were purchased by SBS included Berliet and Guy Victory in the 1970s and the Volvo B57 and Mercedes-Benz OF1417 in the 1980s, the latter which were bodied by foreign coachbuilders like New Zealand Motor Bodies and Hawke Coachwork.[31]

In 1976, SBS purchased its first 20 Leyland Atlantean AN68 buses to evaluate the suitability of double-decker bus operation, with the buses first entering service on bus 86 on 13 June 1977.[31] Following the success of the trial, SBS ordered another 500 Leyland Atlantean AN68 buses from 1978 to 1984, all of which were either bodied by Metal Sections or Walter Alexander Coachbuilders; SBS also conducted comparative trials of double-decker buses of other makes, namely the Leyland Olympian, Volvo Ailsa B55, Scania BR112DH, Dennis Dominator, Dennis Trident 3, Mercedes-Benz O305 and Volvo B10MD Citybus.[33] In 1984, SBS purchased another 200 Leyland Olympian and 200 Mercedes-Benz O305 double-decker buses.[33] SBS also conducted an evaluation of air conditioned buses (namely the ex-Singapore Airport Bus Services Mercedes-Benz OF1413 coaches) that year and conducted similar trials with other bus models like the Nissan Diesel U31S and Renault PR100 (SBS30P) before its first bulk order for 50 Scania N113CRB buses in 1989.[31][33]

In the 1990s, some bus models on the roads included the Volvo B10M, Scania N113CRB, Mercedes-Benz O405, Leyland and Volvo Olympian and Dennis Dart.[34] SBS also conducted trials of high capacity single decker buses, namely a superlong Volvo B10M Mark IV (SBS997A), an articulated Volvo B10MA (SBS998Y) and an articulated Mercedes-Benz O405G (SBS999U), in 1996 although the trial did not succeed.[33] The first low-floor bus, a Volgren-bodied Volvo Super Olympian demonstrator (SBS9888Y) was brought to SBS by Volvo Buses for trial purposes in 1999. After its successful trial, 51 Volvo Super Olympian chassis were further brought in by SBS Transit. 50 buses are bodied by Volgren between 2002 and 2003 while 1 remaining chassis is being reserved for a ComfortDelGro Engineering bodywork, which entered revenue service by 2005. The first wheelchair-accessible bus was also brought into service in 2006. SBS Transit compressed natural gas buses began service in 2002. Hybrid and electric buses came into foray since 2019, although small-scale trials began in 2010.

Between 2020 and 2021, one unit of Mercedes-Benz Citaro C2 Hybrid, SG4004B, was brought in for trial purposes and was loaned from Daimler South East Asia under a Special Purpose License. The bus was on revenue service from 9 March 2020 to 8 March 2021 on buses 93 & 272 with SBS Transit based at the Ulu Pandan Bus Depot (UPDEP).

All Volvo B10BLE CNG (rigid) buses were retired in 2019 except for the first two units which had been preserved, after that, both Volvo B10TLs and Volvo B9TL CDGEs were retired early and scrapped. Only 20 Volvo B9TL CDGE buses remained in operation until September 2023 when they reached the end of their lifespan, with the last day of service being 22 September.[35]

In March 2024, several units of the Scania K230UB (Euro IV and V) buses were transferred to SMRT Buses from SBS Transit for some testings at Woodlands Depot before the Jurong West Bus Package begins operations in September that year.

In October 2021, Alexander Dennis Enviro500 MMC with 3-door and 2-staircase buses was usually enter service debut on bus 974. new bearing Enviro500 MkIV bodywork type and shares with the Enviro400 MMC exterior design, such as new feature for Hong Kong.

In 2025, All these electric buses were began operating service debuts to replace with the traditional diesel EEV buses.

Rail

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Mass Rapid Transit (MRT)

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SBS Transit operates two of Singapore's six MRT lines in the network, the North East Line (NEL) since its opening on 20 June 2003 and the Downtown Line (DTL) since its opening on 22 December 2013.[36] SBS Transit is also set to operate the Jurong Region Line (JRL) as a joint venture alongside French rail operator RATP Dev under the operator name Singapore One Rail when it opens in 2027.[37][38]

The NEL currently spans 21.6 km and 17 stations, running from HarbourFront in the south-west to Punggol Coast in the north-east. As of 2023, the NEL uses a fleet composed of three very similar series of 49 Alstom Metropolis train-sets, namely the C751A, C751C and C851E.[39][40] The operating license for the NEL was awarded to SBS Transit in order to foster competition with SMRT Trains and to create multi-modal public transport companies, each specialising in their own district. In 2018, it was confirmed that SBS Transit's contract for maintaining the NEL would last until 31 March 2033.[41][42]

The NEL was Singapore's third metro line and the city's first automated and driverless system. At times, it has been referred to as "the first driverless heavy metro line in the world" or the "world's first fully automated and driverless high-capacity rapid transit line" by some.[43][44] While driverless metro systems have existed long before (notably the Lille Metro since 1983, the Vancouver Skytrain since 1985 and the Kelana Jaya Line and Paris Métro Line 14 since 1998), the NEL is the first application of a fully automated and driverless metro system with heavy rail characteristics such as an overhead catenary (in contrast to earlier systems using third rail) and 1,435 mm standard-gauge (in contrast to earlier systems featuring smaller rail profiles). Till today, it is the only MRT line in Singapore using the overhead catenary electrical system while the rest of Singapore's MRT uses the third rail.

The DTL currently spans 41.9 km and 35 stations as of 2025, running from Bukit Panjang station in the north-west to Expo station in the east via the Central Area. The DTL is fully automated and driverless as well and consists of a fleet of 92 Bombardier Movia C951 trainsets.[45]

Name Image Maximum speed (km/h) Trains built Cars built Cars per set Lines served Built Number in service Introduction
Design Service
C751A 100 90 25 150 6 North East Line 2000‍–‍2003
2019‍–‍2026[nb 1]
25 20 June 2003
C751C 18 108 2014‍–‍2016 18 1 October 2015
C851E 6 36 2020 6 28 July 2023
C951(A) 90 80 92 276 3 Downtown Line 2012‍–‍2017 92 22 December 2013
J151 70 TBA 62 186 Jurong Region Line 2022‍–‍2026 0 2027
  • The trains are classified as contracts unlike other countries which use "class".

Light Rail Transit (LRT)

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Out of three LRT lines in Singapore, two are operated and maintained by SBS Transit, namely the Sengkang LRT line and Punggol LRT line (SPLRT). These lines serve a total of 29 stations and provide feeder connections to Sengkang and Punggol stations. As of 2025, these lines use a fleet of 57 sets comprising two series of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Crystal Mover APMs (namely the C810 and C810A[46]), a number expected to increase in the future with the introduction of C810D APMs.[47] In 2018, it was confirmed that SBS Transit's contract for both LRT lines would run until 31 March 2033.[41][42]

Name Image Maximum speed (km/h) Trains built Cars per set Lines served Built Number in service Introduction Decommissioned
Design Service
C810 80 70 41 1 or 2 Sengkang LRT
Punggol LRT
2000 – 2003 39 18 January 2003 2025 – 2028
C810A 16 2012 – 2016 16 5 April 2016 N/a
C810D 25 2 2024 – 2027 2 15 July 2025 N/a
  • The trains are classified as contracts unlike other countries which use "class".

Depots

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Out of ten operational rail depots in Singapore, SBS Transit maintains three, namely:

  • Sengkang Depot which houses NEL and SPLRT trains. The depot is undergoing an expansion program which is targeted for completion in 2027 in order to accommodate more trains, after being in operation since 2003.
  • Tai Seng Facility Building which houses some DTL trains.
  • Gali Batu Depot which houses the majority of DTL trains. It has undergone expansion towards the end of 2010s.
  • East Coast Integrated Depot which is expected to house DTL trains upon its opening in 2026.

Operations

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The table below shows the changes in SBS Transit's operated bus and train over the years.

Year Bus Routes Bus Fleet Train Stations Train Fleet
2026 TBA TBA TBA TBA
2025 204 TBC 81 TBC
2024[2] 196 3,329 81 198
2023[48] 222 3,572 78 198
2022[49] 218 3,562 78 192
2021[50] 228 3,548 78 192
2020[51] 226 3,531 78 192
2019[52] 223 3,512 78 192
2018[53] 222 3,471 78 192

Bus Depot(s)

Depot Area Served Status
Ang Mo Kio Bus Depot Central Region Closed on 3 January 2025
Ayer Rajah Bus Park NUS Closed in 2018 / Facility upkeep
Bedok North Bus Depot Eastern Region Opened
Braddell HQ Bus Park Central Region Opened
Bukit Batok Bus Depot Clementi Opened
Bulim Bus Depot Boon Lay Opened
Hougang Bus Depot Central & North East Region Opened
Seletar Bus Depot[27] North Region Opened in 2018
Sengkang West Bus Depot[54] North East Region Opened on 4 January 2025
Soon Lee Bus Park Western Region Operations transferred to SMRT Buses in 2024
Ulu Pandan Bus Depot South & West Region Opened in 2018

Train Depot(s)

Depot Area Served Status
East Coast Integrated Depot Downtown Line U/C
Gali Batu Train Depot Downtown Line Opened
Sengkang Train Depot North East Line

Sengkang-Punggol LRT

Opened
Tai Seng Facility Building Downtown Line Opened
Tengah Train Depot Jurong Region Line Testing Phase

Notes

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References

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Further reading

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[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
SBS Transit Ltd is a leading multi-modal public transport operator in , specializing in bus and rail services as a of the Corporation. Formed in 1973 through the merger of three private bus companies, it has evolved into one of the country's largest transport providers, operating 196 bus services with a fleet of 3,329 buses (as of 2024) and managing key rail networks including the 42 km Downtown Line, the North East MRT Line—the world's first fully automated underground heavy rail system—and the Punggol and Light Rail Transit systems. The company serves approximately 3.2 million passenger trips daily (as of 2024), emphasizing safe, reliable, and sustainable mobility across the island nation. Historically, SBS Transit traces its roots to the Singapore Bus Services (1978) Ltd, which was listed on the in 1978 following the initial 1973 merger. It underwent significant restructuring in the late , renaming to DelGro Corporation Limited in 1997 before separating its bus operations and adopting the SBS Transit name in 2001 to reflect its expansion into rail after securing the operating license for the North East Line. The full integration into occurred in 2003 via the merger of Comfort Group and DelGro Corporation, enhancing its scale and resources as 's biggest public bus operator with over 50 years of experience. Key milestones include launching the Downtown Line in stages from 2013, recent openings of Punggol Coast station on the North East Line (December 2024) and Hume station on the Downtown Line (February 2025), recognized for its high reliability, and forming the One Rail with RATP Dev (awarded November 2024) to operate the upcoming 24 km Jurong Region Line starting in 2027. Beyond core operations, SBS Transit prioritizes and , leveraging for advancements in fleet modernization and passenger services like real-time bus tracking via its official app. As a publicly listed entity on the (SGX: S61), it also provides consultancy services regionally, contributing to its role in Singapore's integrated ecosystem managed under the . With a commitment to world-class standards, the operator continues to adapt to growing demand, including preparations for events like the Singapore Criterium in 2025, ensuring seamless connectivity for commuters.

History

Singapore Bus Services Era (1973–2001)

Singapore Bus Services (SBS) was established on 1 July 1973 through the government-directed merger of three private bus companies—the Amalgamated Bus Company, Associated Bus Services, and United Bus Services—to consolidate Singapore's fragmented public bus industry and enhance service efficiency. At its formation, SBS operated 111 routes with a fleet of approximately 1,000 buses, serving as the primary public transport provider and carrying around 1.4 million passengers daily. This consolidation marked a key step in the nationalization of public transport, reducing competition among the previous 11 operators and enabling centralized regulation under the Public Transport Council established in 1971. During the and , SBS expanded its network significantly while introducing innovations to improve rider comfort. By , daily ridership had grown to 1.8 million passengers, reflecting robust demand amid Singapore's rapid . A major came in 1984 with the launch of the first air-conditioned bus service on route 168, operating OF1413 buses between and , which charged a premium fare to offset higher operating costs and marked a shift toward modernized fleet amenities. By the , the network had expanded to over 217 routes with a fleet exceeding 2,000 buses, covering most of the island and integrating with the emerging MRT system to form a cohesive framework. SBS faced operational challenges, including labor disputes and regulatory interventions that shaped its dominant market position. In November 1982, a strike involving 2,800 workers halted services for two days, highlighting tensions over wages and working conditions amid rising fuel costs and competition pressures. Government actions, such as granting SBS exclusive operating rights for most routes in 1987, reinforced its near-monopoly status until the late 1980s when Trans Island Bus Services (TIBS) entered the northwest sector, introducing limited competition. By 2000, SBS carried over 2 million passengers daily, underscoring its central role in daily mobility. In the late 1990s, SBS trialed magnetic fare cards as prototypes for cashless payments, paving the way for more efficient ticketing systems. This era laid the groundwork for SBS's evolution, culminating in its rebranding to SBS Transit in 2001 to reflect expanded operations.

Formation and Early Expansion (2001–2010)

In 2001, Singapore Bus Services (SBS) underwent a significant rebranding to SBS Transit Ltd, marking its transition from a bus-only operator to a multi-modal public transport provider. This change was part of Singapore's broader public transport liberalization efforts, aimed at fostering competition and integrating bus and rail services under unified operators to enhance efficiency and service quality. The rebranding coincided with the company's preparation for rail operations, following the 1995 award of operating licences by the Land Transport Authority (LTA) for the North East Line (NEL) MRT and the Sengkang-Punggol Light Rail Transit (LRT) systems. At inception, SBS Transit was majority-owned by DelGro Corporation, which held approximately 65% of shares, positioning the company as a key player in the evolving transport landscape. The NEL, Singapore's inaugural fully automated and driverless heavy rail MRT line, commenced revenue service on 20 June 2003, spanning 20 km with 16 stations from HarbourFront to . As the world's first fully underground automated MRT system, it represented a technological milestone but also introduced operational complexities due to its reliance on advanced signaling and technologies. Concurrently, SBS Transit assumed operations for the LRT, which launched on 18 2003 as a 10 km loop-line serving the new town of , followed by the LRT extension opening on 29 March 2005 to connect residents. These rail ventures integrated seamlessly with SBS Transit's extensive bus network, enabling coordinated feeder services and interchange facilities that improved connectivity for northeastern residents. The period from 2003 to 2006 presented early challenges for SBS Transit, particularly with the NEL's teething issues stemming from its pioneering , including multiple signal and power faults that led to service disruptions and stranded passengers. Notable incidents, such as a major breakdown in October 2003 affecting thousands of commuters, prompted investigations and remedial actions, including software upgrades to the system and enhanced staff training protocols. By 2006, these efforts had stabilized operations, with ridership growing to over 200,000 daily passengers and reliability improving significantly. The integration of bus and rail under SBS Transit also facilitated better resource allocation, though it coincided with the erosion of the bus monopoly as LTA began handing over select routes to competitors like SMRT to inject market competition. During 2007–2010, SBS Transit turned its focus to future expansion, with planning for the first stage of the Downtown Line (DTL) commencing under LTA's oversight. Announced in 2007, the DTL project involved feasibility studies and initial design contracts awarded to SBS Transit for operational readiness, aiming to alleviate congestion in central Singapore with a 4.3 km initial segment from Bugis to Chinatown set for 2013 opening. This preparatory phase underscored SBS Transit's growing role in rail infrastructure, building on NEL and LRT successes while navigating the competitive dynamics of Singapore's liberalized transport market.

Recent Developments (2011–present)

In 2013, SBS Transit commenced operations on the Downtown Line (DTL) with the opening of Stage 1 on 22 December, spanning 4.3 km from Chinatown to Bugis stations and enhancing connectivity in Singapore's central business district. Stage 2 opened on 27 December 2015, extending the line 16.6 km northwest from Bukit Panjang to Rochor, while Stage 3 completed the full 42 km network on 21 October 2017, connecting from Expo to Bukit Panjang and integrating with the North East Line (NEL) at stations like Little India and Chinatown. This expansion increased SBS Transit's MRT operations to two lines, the NEL and DTL, under a 11-year rail operating license from 2022 to 2032 awarded by the Land Transport Authority (LTA). The introduction of the Bus Contracting Model in 2016 brought increased competition, with SBS Transit handing over routes to new operators. assumed control of 27 routes in the Bulim and Sembawang-Yishun packages on 1 September 2016, previously operated by SBS Transit and , marking the entry of foreign operators into Singapore's bus industry. Similarly, took over 24 routes in the Loyang and packages starting 4 September 2016, with additional services transitioning on 18 September 2016, all formerly under SBS Transit. Despite these losses, SBS Transit secured gains through tenders, including retaining the package for a second five-year term (extendable by two years) awarded on 18 August 2023, covering 18 routes serving central and southern areas. During the from 2020 to 2022, SBS Transit implemented service adjustments to manage reduced ridership and ensure safety. In response to the period from April to June 2020, the company suspended 29 bus services, including express and cross-border routes, while enhancing cleaning and disinfection protocols across buses, trains, interchanges, and stations. Frequencies were reduced on select routes amid driver shortages and lower demand, with operations resuming gradually post-circuit breaker, supported by government subsidies under the Bus Contracting Model. Recent updates include the award of the Bus Package on 19 July 2024, comprising 29 routes and commencing operations on 16 March 2025, reinforcing SBS Transit's market share at 54.3% with 196 routes in 2024. The Braddell Bus Park, serving as a key facility since the , is scheduled for decommissioning by the end of 2025 ahead of the expiry of 's lease in 2026, with bus operations relocating to the nearby Bus Depot. SBS Transit, a of , has maintained stable ownership throughout this period. In innovation efforts, the company participated in autonomous bus trials, including a commercial on-demand shuttle service using autonomous vehicles on [Jurong Island](/page/Jurong Island) from 2020 to 2023. By 2017, SBS Transit achieved full wheelchair accessibility across its bus services, with all routes equipped for wheelchair users, supported by upgraded interchanges featuring priority zones and tactile guides. On 28 November 2024, SBS Transit formed the One Rail with RATP Dev to operate and maintain the Jurong Region Line, a 24 km MRT line scheduled to open in stages from 2027.

Bus Operations

Fleet Composition

SBS Transit's bus fleet comprises 3,329 vehicles as of 2024, encompassing a mix of single-deck, double-deck, and articulated buses to meet diverse operational demands across its network. Approximately 61% of the fleet consists of single-deck buses, 39% double-deck models, and a small contingent of 10 articulated "bendy" buses, enabling efficient passenger capacity on high-demand routes. Representative examples include the double-decker, known for its low-floor design and high seating capacity of up to 88 passengers, and the K230UB single-decker, a staple for urban services with a 12-meter length and V compliance in later batches. The double-decker, featuring three doors and dual staircases for improved boarding flow, has been procured in recent years to enhance and capacity. Around 90% of the fleet adheres to 5 or higher emission standards, with newer additions incorporating 6 engines to reduce particulate matter and outputs. Procurement strategies emphasize sustainability and modernization, with the fleet size remaining stable at over 3,300 buses since approximately 3,500 units in 2010, driven by route expansions and vehicle replacements under the Land Transport Authority's Bus Contracting Model. Post-2018 integrations of hybrid and electric buses have accelerated, including 25 diesel-hybrid models and 85 battery-electric units by 2024, marking a rise from 57 cleaner-energy vehicles in 2023. Trials of BYD electric buses began in 2022 with models like the K9RC double-decker, supporting the operator's goal of over 200 electric buses by 2025 and full cleaner-energy adoption by 2040. By late 2025, the electric bus fleet exceeded 200 units. Recent additions include BYD BC12A04 articulated electrics introduced in late 2024, alongside Zhongtong LCK6126EVG single-decks in early 2025, as part of broader electrification efforts. Historically, the fleet evolved from older non-air-conditioned models to a fully modernized lineup, with phased-out vehicles including the single-decker, introduced in the 1980s and progressively retired through the 2000s, with the final units decommissioned by 2011 due to age and regulatory lifespan limits. The Dennis Trident 3 double-decker, procured starting in 1999 with Duple Metsec bodywork, served until the late before retirement to make way for low-entry, wheelchair-compliant replacements. These decommissioning timelines aligned with Singapore's push for air-conditioned and accessible buses, culminating in the achievement of a 100% wheelchair-accessible fleet by December 2020, where all 3,531 buses at the time featured low floors, ramps, and designated spaces. This milestone enhanced inclusivity, with ongoing procurements ensuring sustained compliance.

Routes and Network

SBS Transit operates approximately 225 trunk, feeder, and express bus routes as of 2025, forming a core part of 's public bus network. These routes are organized under multiple bus packages managed by the (LTA), including negotiated and tendered contracts that ensure comprehensive service delivery across designated areas. Key corridors such as routes 7, 16, and 36 provide vital connectivity through central , linking residential neighborhoods to commercial districts and transport hubs. The network emphasizes coverage in eastern, northern, and central , serving densely populated regions like , , and Sengkang-Hougang. This geographical focus supports high-density urban mobility, with services radiating from major interchanges such as and , which handle significant passenger flows and integrate with dedicated bus lanes to enhance speed and reliability. Feeder routes play a crucial role in complementing the MRT system, providing last-mile connectivity from housing estates to nearby rail stations and promoting seamless multimodal travel. Service variants add flexibility to the network, including short-trip operations on select routes for targeted coverage, night services under the N-series for 24-hour accessibility, and premium express options like City Direct routes that offer direct links to business districts with limited stops. The Bus Package was renewed in September 2024, maintaining services in central-southern areas. In 2025, the Bus Package, with 29 routes, commenced in March, bolstering northeastern connectivity. These enhancements align with LTA's Bus Connectivity Enhancement Programme, prioritizing improved frequencies and coverage in growing suburbs. SBS Transit's bus operations contribute over 2.5 million daily passenger trips, holding a 54.3% of Singapore's public bus services amid a national daily ridership exceeding 3.7 million. This scale underscores the network's impact on urban commuting, supported by like bus interchanges and priority lanes that mitigate congestion and maintain service efficiency.

Depots and Infrastructure

SBS Transit maintains a network of bus depots and supporting facilities across to facilitate the maintenance, storage, and deployment of its bus fleet. As of 2024, the company operates eight primary bus depots, including , North, , , and , supplemented by bus parks for overflow capacity. These sites handle routine inspections, repairs, and fueling, with roles varying by district; for instance, North Depot serves as a key hub for eastern operations, accommodating hundreds of buses daily. Recent adjustments to depot reflect operational shifts and goals. The Braddell Bus Park, a longstanding facility along Braddell Road, is set for decommissioning by the end of 2025 due to lease expiry, with its functions transferring to the expanded Bus Depot to maintain service continuity. Expansions at post-2020 have increased its capacity to absorb relocated operations from Braddell and other sites affected by route handovers under the Bus Contracting Model. Additionally, the new Sengkang West multi-storey depot, handed over in October 2024, adds modern capacity for up to 500 buses while prioritizing integration. Supporting infrastructure emphasizes efficiency and environmental responsibility. All depots feature Automatic Bus Wash Systems (ABWS), introduced starting in 2018 at sites like , which recycle approximately 80% of wash water to reduce consumption. Electric bus charging stations are increasingly integrated, with the Sengkang West facility equipped with 240 high-powered EV chargers to support fleet electrification under the Singapore Green Plan. Sustainability efforts also include solar panel installations since 2015, beginning at Bus Depot with over 2,000 photovoltaic panels on rooftops to generate for depot operations.

Rail Operations

Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) Lines

SBS Transit operates two Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) lines in : the North East Line (NEL) and the Downtown Line (DTL), both fully underground and automated systems designed for high-capacity urban commuting. These lines form a crucial part of the city's rail network, providing efficient connectivity across residential, commercial, and business districts while incorporating advanced safety and reliability features. The NEL and DTL together serve over 1 million passengers daily, contributing to reduced road congestion and supporting goals under the Land Transport Authority's oversight. The North East Line, spanning 22 kilometers with 17 stations from HarbourFront (NE1) to Punggol Coast (NE18), commenced operations in 2003 as the world's first fully automated heavy rail line. It connects southern commercial hubs like Outram Park and Dhoby Ghaut to northeastern residential areas including Hougang and Punggol, with six interchange stations facilitating seamless transfers to other MRT lines. The line employs the Alstom Urbalis 300 Communications-Based Train Control (CBTC) signaling system for driverless operation, enabling precise train spacing and high frequencies during peak hours. SBS Transit's fleet on the NEL consists of 49 six-car Alstom Metropolis trains, supporting an average daily ridership of 589,159 passengers in fiscal year 2024. A key post-2020 development was the 2-kilometer extension to Punggol Coast station, which opened on December 10, 2024, enhancing access to the growing Punggol Northshore district and boosting overall line reliability to a record 4.10 million mean kilometers between failures. The Downtown Line, Singapore's longest underground MRT at 42 kilometers, features 35 stations from (DT1) to Expo (DT35) following the opening of Hume station in February 2025. Launched in stages from 2011 with full operations by 2017, it links western suburbs like to eastern areas including and Business Park, passing through key downtown interchanges such as Botanic Gardens and Promenade. All stations are equipped with for enhanced passenger safety, and the line uses Mobility's Trainguard Sirius CBTC signaling for automated, high-reliability service, achieving 8.13 million mean kilometers between failures for the fourth consecutive year. The DTL's central segments, including stations at Newton and , play a vital role in alleviating congestion along by diverting commuters from buses and private vehicles to this efficient rail corridor. Daily ridership reached 465,302 passengers in 2024, with future expansions including a two-station extension by 2026 and a four-kilometer addition by 2035 to further integrate with emerging developments.

Light Rail Transit (LRT) Systems

SBS Transit operates two light rail transit (LRT) systems in : the and the , which function as automated feeder networks connecting residential areas in the new towns of and to their respective town centers and MRT interchanges. These systems feature looped designs that encircle housing estates, providing convenient access to amenities and promoting walkable integration with surrounding communities. Both lines are fully driverless and utilize low-floor vehicles to enhance for passengers, including those with mobility needs. The SKLRT comprises two loops serving 14 stations over 10.7 km, with the East Loop opening on 18 January 2003 and the West Loop on 29 January 2005; the network achieved full operations on 27 June 2015 with the addition of Kupang station. It acts as a key feeder to the North East Line (NEL) at station, facilitating seamless transfers for residents in eastern and western sectors. The line's butterfly-shaped configuration optimizes circulation within the densely populated residential zones, reducing reliance on bus services for short intra-town trips. The PGLRT features a looped network with 15 stations spanning 10.3 km, initially opening on 29 January 2005 for the East Loop, followed by phased expansions including the West Loop in June 2014 and the final Teck Lee station on 15 August 2024. Similar to the SKLRT, it serves as a feeder to the NEL at station, supporting connectivity across Punggol's growing residential developments. The single-loop layout, with anti-clockwise operations on the West Loop, ensures efficient coverage of coastal and inland estates, enhancing local mobility. Both systems share a combined fleet of two-car automated trains, with SBS Transit deploying 31 such units to handle peak demands; upgrades to two-car configurations were completed across by , boosting capacity. In 2025, the first of 25 new third-generation two-car trains entered service, with the fleet planned to reach 33 two-car units by 2028 to boost capacity. The Sengkang-Punggol LRT networks recorded a combined average daily ridership of approximately 161,000 passengers in 2024, reflecting steady growth in usage amid population expansion in these areas.

Rail Depots and Maintenance Facilities

SBS Transit operates several key depots dedicated to the maintenance and stabling of its MRT and LRT fleets. The primary MRT depot for the North East Line (NEL) is Changi Depot, which handles the daily stabling, inspection, and heavy maintenance of the line's . This facility supports the NEL's operational needs, including the refurbishment of trains equipped with advanced systems. For the Downtown Line (DTL), Kim Chuan Depot serves as the main maintenance hub, having opened in conjunction with DTL Stage 3 in October 2017. The depot initially accommodates up to 70 three-car trains but is undergoing expansion to nearly double its capacity to 133 trains by 2026, integrating with future line extensions and enhancing storage for automated operations. SBS Transit's LRT operations rely on Sengkang Depot, which provides stabling and maintenance for both the and lines as part of the integrated (SPLRT) system. This depot features fully automated stabling systems, allowing driverless trains to enter and exit without manual intervention, and recent expansions include additional tracks and workshops to support 17 new two-car trains introduced to boost capacity. There is no separate Punggol Depot; all SPLRT trains are maintained at . Maintenance facilities across these depots incorporate third-rail power systems operating at 750 V DC, which supply electricity to trains and are integral to the lines' automated and underground infrastructure. Since 2024, SBS Transit has implemented AI-driven upgrades, including the in-house Project 6Sense and Maximo Application Suite, for on rail assets; these systems use sensor data and analytics to detect potential faults early, reducing disruptions. As of 2024, SBS Transit's total rail track length under management stands at 84.6 km, encompassing the NEL (22 km), DTL (42 km), and SPLRT (approximately 21 km). Post-2025 expansion plans include the opening of the in 2026, which will add dedicated DTL stabling capacity as part of a multi-line facility handling up to 220 trains overall, alongside extensions to the DTL requiring further depot enhancements by 2035.

Corporate Affairs

Ownership and Governance

SBS Transit Ltd is majority-owned by Corporation Ltd, which holds 74.26% of the company's shares as of November 2025. The remaining shares, approximately 25.74%, are held by public investors. The company's governance is overseen by a comprising nine members, with six independent non-executive directors ensuring balanced oversight. The board is chaired by Bob Tan Beng Hai, while Jeffrey Sim Vee Ming serves as Group , a role he assumed following prior leadership in the rail division. Key subsidiaries include SBS Transit Rail Pte Ltd, which manages rail operations. SBS Transit operates under the regulatory oversight of the (LTA), which enforces infrastructure and operational standards, and complies with guidelines from the Public Transport Council (PTC) on fares and . In 2024, SBS Transit reported annual revenue of SGD 1.56 billion and employed 9,609 staff members.

Contracts and Performance Metrics

SBS Transit's bus operations are governed by the Bus Contracting Model (BCM), introduced by the Land Transport Authority (LTA) in 2016, under which the company secured negotiated contracts for eight packages comprising 196 routes, valued at approximately S$5.32 billion over an initial seven-year term. These contracts, effective from September 1, 2016, replaced the previous Bus Service Operating Licences and emphasize performance-based incentives tied to service quality, frequency, and accessibility standards. In recent years, SBS Transit has successfully retained and won tenders for specific packages; for instance, the Bukit Merah Bus Package, consisting of 17 routes including cross-border services to Johor Bahru, was awarded to the company on August 18, 2023, for a five-year term commencing April 28, 2024, with options for extensions of two to five years and an estimated value of S$472 million. Similarly, the Seletar Bus Package, encompassing 29 routes from Seletar Bus Depot, was renewed on July 19, 2024, for another five-year period starting March 16, 2025, at a total fee of S$526 million, allowing SBS Transit to maintain its position as Singapore's largest bus operator with a 54.3% market share in 2024. For rail operations, SBS Transit holds a Consolidated Rail Licence under the New Rail Financing Framework (NRFF) Version 2, which covers the North East Line (NEL), Downtown Line (DTL), and Sengkang-Punggol LRT (SPLRT), with the NEL's original 15-year operating agreement dating back to 2003 and the DTL's to 2011. The framework, transitioned for the NEL in 2018 and the DTL in 2022, shifts asset ownership and maintenance risks to the LTA while requiring operators to meet stringent performance standards, with revenue risks shared between the government and the operator to ensure long-term sustainability. These licences have been extended into the 2030s, including rights to manage advertising spaces on the lines until at least 2034, supporting SBS Transit's operation of 80 stations across 84.6 km of track as of 2024. In November 2024, SBS Transit, through its joint venture Singapore One Rail with RATP Dev, was awarded the contract to operate the 24 km Jurong Region Line starting in 2027. Key performance metrics for SBS Transit highlight reliable service delivery, with the company maintaining on-time performance targets exceeding industry benchmarks through investments in and . In 2024, rail ridership grew by 3.9% to 444.8 million passengers, reflecting robust under the NRFF. Customer satisfaction remains high, as evidenced by the Public Transport Council's 2023 survey, where 93% of commuters reported satisfaction with services (mean score of 7.8 out of 10). Electrification efforts have contributed to cost per kilometer reductions, with SBS Transit deploying over 200 electric buses by 2025 to form Singapore's largest such fleet, enhancing and lowering operational expenses amid rising energy costs. Profitability during the 2020-2022 COVID-19 period was significantly impacted by reduced ridership, though mitigated by government subsidies and relief measures totaling S$56.3 million in 2021 alone, enabling the company to report an operating profit of S$53.6 million despite a 33% year-on-year decline. Net profit fell 34.6% to S$51.6 million in 2021, reflecting fare revenue drops, but rebounded to S$68.0 million in 2022 as services normalized. By 2025, SBS Transit achieved a key accessibility milestone, with 222 bus services fully equipped for wheelchair users, including dedicated spaces and ramps at all stops along these routes, aligning with LTA's push for universal design in public transport.

References

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