In brief
In Singapore, the high price tag of owning a car not only symbolizes luxury but also serves as a strategic move to control urban congestion and pollution.
Despite Singapore being a compact island city-state, owning a car can feel like donning a luxury brand. For Andre Lee, a 33-year-old insurance agent, purchasing a used Kia Forte was not merely about transportation, it was about image and opportunity. “It’s the same as being dressed in formal wear with leather shoes or wearing a Rolex,” he explained, illustrating the social aspirations tied to car ownership in this affluent metropolis.However, the costs of driving are exceptionally steep. To even own a car, drivers must fork out exorbitant fees for a certificate of entitlement (COE), which currently peaks at around $84,000 for a 10-year permit. This mandatory expense, introduced in 1990 as a measure to combat pollution and road congestion, significantly inflates the overall costs of vehicle purchase. For Lee, the total cost of his vehicle including the COE reached approximately $24,000. This is still considered a bargain compared to the prices some pay.The conditions under which Singaporeans maintain their vehicles speak volumes about their societal values; it’s not uncommon to discover individuals who dedicate more resources to their cars than to their families. “I know of people who treat their vehicles better than their family because it costs more to maintain a car than a family sometimes,” Lee remarked, shedding light on the esteemed place cars hold in the heart of Singapore's urban lifestyle.As vehicle ownership continues to be a blend of privilege and practicality, the challenge remains: how can Singaporeans navigate the high costs while preserving the city’s vision of a green, sustainable future?
