As Singapore accelerates towards a low-carbon future, the electric vehicle (EV) industry is emerging as both an opportunity and a challenge. Dr Chiam Sing Yang, Deputy Executive Director and Technical Director at the Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), and a key figure in the Singapore Battery Consortium (SBC), believes the country is still in the early stages of adoption, but poised for transformation.

“Large-scale adoption of battery products, whether in energy storage systems (ESS) or EV, is still at its early stages,” says Dr Chiam in an email interview with e27.

While Singapore has ambitious goals, barriers remain. For consumers, practical concerns such as upfront cost, uncertain resale value, and limited charging infrastructure weigh heavily on purchasing decisions. Businesses, meanwhile, struggle with the return on investment for heavier vehicles, where EV economics have yet to reach a tipping point.

Beyond transport, energy storage presents its own difficulties. “For ESS in Singapore, revenue models beyond compliance will then support deployment, especially with electricity imports,” Dr Chiam explains.

He emphasises that cleaner and more cost-effective energy is not just about addressing climate change but is “a cornerstone for economic activities” and critical for Singapore’s growth. Safety, however, is another factor that could derail momentum.

“Incidents, when amplified, can slow progress,” he warns.

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Seeking solutions across the value chain

When asked about solutions, Dr Chiam–who recently spoke at the 3rd ASEAN Battery Technology Conference in Thailand–points to improvements in both technology and governance. Product innovation must focus on safety, cost, and digital integration, while better inspection regimes for battery health and third-party validation can strengthen trust in the market.

He also highlights the need for systems that monetise second-hand batteries, ensuring circularity and sustainability. Yet these solutions are not the responsibility of one actor alone.

“Resources vary, and the tricky aspect is that it may involve multiple value chain players,” he notes. Collaboration across industries, regulators, and researchers is essential if EVs in Singapore are to scale effectively.

Looking ahead, Dr Chiam is optimistic about the potential of emerging technologies. “From the materials side, we are excited about new tech in next-gen batteries, including dry processes, solid-state batteries, and non-lithium-ion batteries,” he says.

On the digital front, integrating predictive data analytics could transform how batteries are monitored and maintained. He also sees promise in a “battery passport” — a digital record enabling transparency and resource sustainability.

Government action has played a central role in shaping the EV ecosystem. Singapore’s 2030 ban on new internal combustion car sales and the ongoing rollout of EV charging infrastructure provide clear intent signals.

“In adoption, Singapore has approached from the policy angle,” Dr Chiam notes, noting that industry policies attracting high-tech players apply across sectors, including EV and energy storage. For ESS, incentives such as demand response and interruptible load schemes have also helped build momentum.

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Safety and cost: twin threats

Despite this progress, Dr Chiam is cautious about what could threaten the EV industry’s trajectory. Safety improvements often require significant investment, which can make it cost-prohibitive. Worse, safety is too frequently approached only as a compliance issue, rather than as a core part of long-term innovation and consumer confidence. This gap could slow adoption unless addressed.

Looking to the near future, Dr Chiam predicts 2026 could be the year alternative chemistries begin to break through. “This is the year I think we will see sodium-ion batteries start to take some market share,” he forecasts.

If realised, this shift could make EVs in Singapore more affordable and accessible, easing reliance on lithium and addressing some of the cost barriers consumers face today.

The pathway to widespread EV adoption in Singapore is neither straightforward nor guaranteed. It requires alignment across technology, policy, business models, and public trust. However, with continued innovation and collaboration, the city-state may yet become a leader in the clean transport revolution.

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Image Credit: Dr Chiam Sing Yang

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