As autonomous vehicles (AVs) move closer to deployment in Singapore’s public transport system, questions around workforce impact, job redesign, and career continuity are becoming increasingly urgent. This project examines how Singapore can navigate the transition to autonomous mobility in a fair, inclusive, and supportive way for transport workers whose livelihoods may be affected.

Led by the Lee Kuan Yew Centre for Innovative Cities, in collaboration with the National Trades Union Congress, the study focuses on taxi drivers, private hire vehicle drivers, and public bus captains—occupations likely to experience early impacts from AV adoption. Combining international best practices with Singapore-specific insights, the research explores how automation may reshape roles, skills requirements, and employment pathways across the transport sector.

By grounding technological change in lived worker experiences, this project aims to contribute evidence-based recommendations that support career continuity, lifelong employability, and responsible adoption of autonomous mobility, positioning Singapore as a global reference point for just transitions in transport innovation.

Read more about our team’s experience on the autonomous shuttle in Punggol here.