Singaporeans Divided Over the Impact of Rising Car Ownership Costs
As Singapore’s General Election 2025 approaches, discussions around key voter concerns are heating up. One issue that has sparked debate is the rising cost of Certificates of Entitlement (COEs), a mandatory document for car ownership in the city-state.
A Reddit user recently voiced frustration over what he described as “spiralling COE prices” and questioned policymakers’ approach to the issue. He suggested that dissatisfaction with these costs could influence voter decisions in the upcoming election.
Singapore’s vehicle ownership system is one of the strictest globally, with COE prices often nearing S$100,000—excluding motorcycles. The government regulates the number of vehicles on the road to prevent congestion, making car ownership an expensive privilege.
The discussion also touched on private hire vehicle (PHV) companies, which some believe contribute to rising COE prices. The Reddit user argued that the transport ministry has overlooked this factor, despite public concerns, and warned that it could become an electoral issue.
A Divided Perspective
While some agreed that high COE prices make car ownership difficult, others countered that the system serves an essential purpose. One widely supported comment stated, “High COE prices are a feature, not a flaw.”
Another user speculated that younger Singaporeans see car ownership as a major life milestone, which fuels frustration over the escalating costs. However, others pointed out that allowing more cars on the road would lead to severe congestion, ultimately making driving less convenient.
“The COE system ensures that when you do drive, you don’t waste time in traffic jams,” one commenter noted. Another added, “Cars provide comfort, privacy, and convenience—there’s no denying they improve quality of life.”
The Case for Car Ownership
Despite the arguments in favour of COE restrictions, some Singaporeans believe the public transport system does not meet everyone’s needs. They highlighted areas with limited transport options and unique locations that can only be accessed by car.
A few users also expressed concerns about declining public transport efficiency, with one person mentioning that their daily commute now takes an hour.
With opinions split, the question remains: Will COE prices become a decisive election issue, or will voters prioritise other concerns?
