In ride-hailing, having more options makes commuting harder

Fragmented choice may be eroding reliability and trust in Singapore's point-to-point transport system.

- Samuel Chng

At peak hour, many commuters now scroll between three or four ride-hailing apps before confirming a booking. Taxis remain an option, whether hailed on the street or through an app.

Drivers, too, often toggle between multiple apps in search of the next job.

On paper, this looks like healthy competition. In practice, commuters must contend with uncertainty over which platform will actually secure a ride in good time, as well as the hassle of comparing prices and wait times across apps. Fragmentation imposes a “cognitive tax” on commuters, forcing them to spend time and mental effort simply to secure a ride. The question then is not simply which app is cheapest, but whether Singapore’s point-to-point mobility system is delivering what commuters value most: reliability, predictability and confidence.

With certificate of entitlement (COE) prices persisting at elevated levels and total ownership costs high, owning a private vehicle remains out of reach for many households. At the same time, Singapore’s public transport system remains affordable and extensive, yet peak hour crowding can be a deterrent.

Ride-hailing services and taxis therefore serve as important complements to buses and the LRT and MRT. They provide firstand last-mile connections, late-night travel options, and flexibility for families, older adults and shift workers, along with alternatives for those wanting a more private mode of transport.

Car-sharing services add another layer to this mobility spectrum, offering households occasional access to a vehicle without the long-term financial commitments of ownership. Together, public transport, taxis, ride-hailing and car-sharing reflect a broader shift from owning cars to accessing mobility when needed.