Univers & SBS Transit launch AI platform for greener transport

Univers, an artificial intelligence firm focused on the energy sector, has partnered with SBS Transit to develop a new Energy and Operations AI Platform. The initiative will use artificial intelligence and internet of things technology to analyse data from SBS Transit's bus and rail facilities with the objective of improving asset monitoring, control, and maintenance.

Energy optimisation

The platform will be used to identify opportunities to increase energy efficiency and improve operational processes across SBS Transit's extensive network. The company operates around 200 bus services with a fleet of 3,400 buses, as well as rail services on several lines including the North East MRT Line and the Downtown Line. Each day, SBS Transit's combined buses and trains handle more than 3.5 million passenger trips.

By aggregating and analysing operational data from these assets, the companies aim to develop tools that make maintenance more predictive, minimise unplanned downtime, and reduce overall resource use in line with Singapore's wider decarbonisation targets.

Collaborative development

The project will draw on resources from Univers' Global Impact AI Lab, which was established recently to develop and accelerate new uses for artificial intelligence in the transport sector. Solutions built for SBS Transit may also be adapted and deployed in other regions.

Chun Yin Mak, Global Senior Vice President at Univers, highlighted the firm's plans to apply lessons from the Singapore partnership more broadly.

"This collaboration builds on our ongoing efforts to empower enterprises globally with AI and IoT capabilities. As a Singapore-headquartered company, we're proud to work with SBS Transit on a multi-year AI-driven transformation of energy and operations. The innovations we build here will deliver real impact for the public transport sector in Singapore, and ultimately, the rest of the world," said Mak.

Decarbonisation focus

The use of artificial intelligence in managing and optimising transport infrastructure is expected to be a key component of efforts to support the Singapore Green Plan 2030. Adoption of these technologies is anticipated to contribute to lower energy consumption across public transport assets, supporting both cost management and sustainability goals.

SBS Transit, which has more than 50 years of experience in public bus and rail operations, has emphasised the importance of deploying digital solutions for long-term capability building.