LTA to partner 4 technology companies to create and enhance journey planning apps

A cyclist cycling and pedestrian walking on shared paths in Tampines on March 17, 2016. ST PHOTO: LIM YAOHUI

SINGAPORE - Commuters can soon tap on a series of transport apps which will incorporate multi-modal options such as public transport, cycling, walking, and the use of personal mobility devices such as e-scooters.

The Land Transport Authority (LTA) announced on Thursday (June 2) that it will partner four technology companies - Citymapper, Google, Hugo and Quantum Inventions - to do this, with the journey planning apps to be available from the end of the year (2016).

As part of the collaboration, the LTA will share transport data, such as the location of cycling paths and sheltered walkways, along with real-time information such as train service disruptions, with the companies.

Citymapper and Google will use the data to enhance their own journey planning apps, while Hugo and Quantum Inventions will each create new apps.

The four companies will, in turn, share the data and insights gained from the use of these journey planners, which will serve as useful feedback for further improving the land transport network, the LTA said.

LTA chief executive Chew Men Leong said: "As we continue to expand our public transport network... commuters will benefit from using better journey planners that can help them take advantage of the various mobility options available to reach their destinations efficiently and comfortably.

"This is in line with the Government's efforts to promote walking, cycling and riding public transport as a way of life in Singapore, as well as the Smart Nation initiative to co-create better solutions with businesses and citizens."

In October last year (2015), the LTA issued a call for collaboration, which attracted more than 20 proposals from various technology companies and individuals.

"Many of the proposals received offered unique value propositions that would enrich the digital ecosystem for land transport, and were evaluated based on three broad categories - product capability, innovativeness, as well as market reach and branding," the LTA said.

The collaboration between LTA and the four companies will last for two years.

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