Ensuring autonomous vehicle rollout protects Singapore's taxi and PHV drivers

The prospect of autonomous vehicles in Singapore has sparked anxiety among taxi and private-hire drivers who rely on daily fares for their families. While the government has pledged not to introduce AVs faster than retraining can keep pace, the labour movement warns that earnings, trip allocation and fare structures must also be monitored. It argues that human drivers still offer essential services such as assistance and judgement, and that AI tools could enhance, not replace, their work.

The NTUC proposes concrete pathways for drivers to acquire new skills, linking training to real employment opportunities through its e2i institute and potential employer-sponsored programmes. Additionally, it suggests exploring cooperative ownership or participation models so drivers can benefit from the economic value created by autonomous mobility. The movement stresses that drivers should have a voice in shaping the transition rather than being forced to adapt to a system designed without them.