TLDR: SBS Transit is set to roll out an AI-powered Tyre Management System (TMS) at its Seletar and Ulu Pandan bus depots by the end of 2025. This innovative system will drastically cut down tyre inspection times from 30-40 minutes to mere minutes, utilising AI-powered sensors and cameras for real-time data analysis. The initiative aims to boost efficiency, improve fleet reliability, and is part of a broader strategy to ‘future-proof’ both technology and talent, including upskilling technicians for specialised roles in predictive maintenance.
Singapore’s public transport operator, SBS Transit, is poised to revolutionise its bus fleet maintenance with the introduction of an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered Tyre Management System (TMS). The system is slated for roll-out at its Seletar and Ulu Pandan bus depots by the end of 2025.
Currently, manual tyre inspections, which involve assessing tread wear, pressure, and potential damage, typically take between 30 to 40 minutes per bus. The new automated TMS will streamline this process significantly. Buses will simply drive over a specially equipped platform featuring AI-powered sensors and cameras. This system will capture and analyse comprehensive tyre data in real-time, reducing inspection durations to just minutes while simultaneously enhancing accuracy.
This strategic move is a key component of SBS Transit’s broader commitment to ‘future-proof’ both its technological infrastructure and its workforce within the transport industry. Beyond merely upgrading machinery, the initiative places a strong emphasis on human capital development.
In collaboration with NTUC Singapore and the National Transport Workers’ Union, and supported by the NTUC Company Training Committee (CTC) Grant, SBS Transit is investing in robust upskilling programmes. These programmes are designed to prepare its technicians for the integration of AI technologies. A notable initiative is the Diagnostic Expert Scheme (DES), a career pathway that fosters specialised expertise in predictive maintenance through structured training.
Mr. Mazri Bin Masrah, a 52-year-old Diagnostic Expert, shared his journey of building maintenance knowledge from the ground up and successfully adapting to AI technologies in his role. This highlights the company’s dedication to empowering its employees alongside technological advancements.
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SBS Transit underscored that the project’s objective is to elevate standards for both its equipment and its personnel, stating, ‘Together, we’re not just upgrading our systems; we’re also upgrading opportunities for our people, so that both technology and talent can move forward together.’ The TMS was initially piloted at the Bedok North Bus Depot before the decision was made to expand its implementation across other facilities. The initiative was publicly announced via a Facebook post on Sunday, 15 September.
