BlueSG
According to the BlueSG website, BlueSG offers smart car-sharing and
affordable, accessible transportation to all Singaporeans. In collaboration with Bollore Group, Singapore signed a contract that
supports public transport policy, through the creation of alternative and
eco-friendly transportation solutions to a motorized vehicle. This
collaboration brought Singapore one step closer to a more sustainable and
efficient transportation system. Thus making Singapore the largest Electrical
Vehicles (EV) car-sharing service worldwide after Paris. BlueSG aims to create
approximately 250 jobs in Singapore by 2021.
BlueSG users will have access to a network of 1,000 shared electric
Bluecar vehicles, available 24/7, around Singapore. Users can return the car at
different locations. Furthermore, they do not need to bear the expense of
maintenance or insurance.
The speciality of Bluecar is that it contains a revolutionary Lithium
Metal Polymer (LMP) battery that does not give outgases or consume zero petrol
or diesel. LMP technology provides unrivalled autonomy and excellent
performance in all types of weather. This gives them numerous advantages,
particularly in terms of safety. It is able to travel up to 200km on a single
charge. Also, with solid component design, it is one of the safest batteries on
the road. LMP batteries have an exceptional life span and because the
technology is based entirely on non-polluting materials, which means it is not
harmful to the environment. Once the battery reaches its lifespan, it can be
recycled or reused.
Another important feature is safety. They are equipped with airbags,
power steering and audible alert to discreetly warn pedestrian that an electric
car is approaching. Bluecar has a built-in international
standard called (ISOFIX), which are attachment points for child safety seats in
passenger cars, which are compatible car seats for children. A
24/7 assistance is available either by phone or by pressing the “BLUE” button
to be connected to their call centre with the in-car-speaker system.
Additionally, there are high-tech features installed such as an on-board
computer that guides users throughout their journey at ease as well as
informing them of the condition of the car. BlueSG’s interface operating system
helps to navigate and show informational or alert notifications.
There are advantages to using BlueSG. Firstly, users can enjoy cost
savings when travelling in a group that is heading in the same direction
instead of taking private hire cars or cabs. Secondly, Bluecar is an ideal
solution for families as if you are in a group of five, for example, it can fit
everyone. Thirdly, when driving in smooth traffic, the price of renting it will
be cheaper since they will be charged by the minute.
However, there are disadvantages to using BlueSG as well. Firstly, users
should avoid taking Bluecar during peak hours or traffic jams as they will end
up paying more than they should compare compared to private hire cars or cabs.
Secondly, there are specific places to park the Bluecar, therefore, there are
factors in travelling to and from the charge points as it is not accessible to
everyone. Thirdly, users might not be able to get their hands on the car, since
the supply is quite limited at the moment.
For these reasons, while there are many similar car rental services, I
believe that BlueSG has provided good services to the users as it caters to
everyone. Also, it is an environmentally-friendly. Therefore, BlueSG should be
users’ primary choice in car sharing.
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BlueSG (n.d) A subsidiary of the Bollore Group
Website: htps://www.bluesg.com.sg
References:
https://www.lta.gov.sg/apps/news/page.aspx?c=2&id=48509d3b-e74d-459b-b84e-5c1b79db4c76
https://blog.moneysmart.sg/transportation/bluesg-electric-cars-singapore/