Singaporean Tesla owners can breathe a little easier. Concerns over the safety of external battery packs required to power the in-vehicle on-board units (OBUs) for the nation’s next-generation Electronic Road Pricing (ERP) system have been addressed by the Land Transport Authority (LTA). The LTA confirmed that these customized battery packs meet international safety standards, a response to anxieties raised earlier this month by the Tesla Owners Club Singapore regarding potential fire hazards.
The upcoming ERP system, slated for full implementation on January 1, 2027, necessitates the installation of OBUs in all registered vehicles. However, Teslas – and some electric motorcycles – lack a consistent power supply needed to operate these units, prompting the necessitate for an external power source. This situation sparked a debate about the safety of continuously charged lithium battery systems installed within the vehicle cabin, particularly those without visible cooling mechanisms.
Responding to queries from The Straits Times on February 20, the LTA clarified that the external battery device doesn’t continuously charge and complies with international safety standards for electronic devices. This assurance comes after the Tesla Owners Club Singapore voiced concerns about the risks of overheating and potential fire hazards associated with the battery packs. The LTA emphasized that it arrived at the external battery solution in collaboration with Tesla Singapore to find a workable solution for the unique power requirements of Tesla vehicles.
Addressing Safety Concerns with Rigorous Standards
The LTA’s response focused on the safety certifications of the battery packs. Both the customized units and the iRoad Powerpack Pro 12 – used in Teslas delivered with pre-fitted OBUs since December 2, 2024 – are tested against the International Electrotechnical Commission’s (IEC) IEC-60068 and IEC-60529 standards. These standards assess a device’s ability to withstand environmental stressors like temperature fluctuations, humidity, vibration, shock, and resistance to dust and water. The LTA highlighted that these IEC standards are widely used to evaluate the operational reliability of electronic devices globally.
The customized battery packs, developed by local engineering firm Hope Technik, utilize lithium iron phosphate battery cells, a technology as well employed by other major electric vehicle manufacturers. This choice of battery chemistry is significant, as lithium iron phosphate is generally considered more stable and less prone to thermal runaway than other lithium-ion formulations.
Installation and Cost for Tesla Owners
Installation of the OBU and external battery system for Teslas is being handled by Indeco Engineers. Importantly, the LTA is offering a no-cost installation period for Tesla owners who complete the process within three months of receiving a final reminder from the authority, beginning in February 2026. This addresses a key concern for owners facing the additional expense and inconvenience of retrofitting their vehicles.
As of the end of 2025, there were 8,635 Teslas registered in Singapore. Approximately 4,200 of these vehicles have already been fitted with the iRoad model, while 380 have received the customized unit developed by Hope Technik. Around 930,000 vehicles – representing 93% of Singapore’s vehicle population – have been equipped with OBUs as of the end of 2025.
A Phased Approach to OBU Integration
The rollout of OBUs has been phased. Teslas delivered with pre-fitted OBUs since December 2024 have been equipped with the iRoad Powerpack Pro 12. Older Teslas requiring retrofitting will utilize the locally developed, customized battery device from Hope Technik starting in January 2026. This tiered approach allows for a managed transition while addressing the specific power needs of different vehicle types.
Looking Ahead: The Latest ERP System and OBU Adoption
The implementation of the next-generation ERP system and the mandatory OBU installation represent a significant shift in Singapore’s transportation infrastructure. The new system promises more accurate and efficient traffic management, but the transition requires careful coordination and addressing the concerns of vehicle owners. The LTA’s commitment to safety standards and cost-effective installation options for Tesla owners demonstrates a proactive approach to ensuring a smooth rollout.
Tesla owners should expect to receive a final reminder from the LTA in February 2026 regarding the free installation window. Further updates on the ERP system and OBU implementation can be found on the LTA website. The successful integration of these new technologies will be crucial for optimizing traffic flow and supporting Singapore’s smart nation initiatives.
Disclaimer: This article provides information for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute professional advice.
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