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Electric vehicle dream needs to be grounded in reality

Singapore's ambition to phase out internal combustion engines by 2040 is a lofty one. Achieving it requires a hard look at past failures in green transport policy to ensure clarity and consistency in the new initiative.

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With countries the world over implementing quarantine measures to combat the coronavirus pandemic, air quality has improved.

Within months since the outbreak started in December, space satellites are detecting a sharp drop in nitrogen dioxide levels in Asia and Europe. It is not an entirely surprising outcome since economic activity has slowed, air travel has been practically suspended and people are commuting far less than before.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on April 16, 2020, with the headline Electric vehicle dream needs to be grounded in reality. Subscribe