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Your OBU's processing unit isn't always mounted on the passenger footwell. Depending on the car that you drive, more than one option may be available! Since November 2023, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) has been gradually replacing in-vehicle units (IUs) with the new on-board units (OBU). The OBU will pave the way for smoother traffic as we transition to the new ERP 2.0 system that is based on Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) technology. The OBU comprises three parts: An antenna, a processing unit, and an optional touchscreen display. For motorcycles, these three parts are integrated in a single unit, while on other vehicles, it's installed as a two- or three-piece unit based on preference. For private passenger cars, the OBU can be installed as either a two- or three-piece unit (the optional component being the touchscreen display) We previously shared our experience with the OBU transition - including our own first experiences with the unit, and prior to that, an overview of the installation process. Earlier this year, we installed the OBU in our facelifted iteration of the third-generation Kia Cerato K3, which was first released in 2016. During the installation, apart from the inclusion of the touchscreen, perhaps the second most significant decision was for the OBU's processing unit (PU) to be mounted at the passenger footwell area. It might interest drivers to know that the passenger footwell isn't the only possible position for the PU. Cars on our roads are built differently - each model bearing unique interior traits that either narrow down or widen up the realm of possibilities for where you might install your PU. When we installed the OBU on one of our cars previously (a third-generation Kia Cerato K3), we opted to have the PU mounted at the front passenger's footwell area Here, we explore the key positions we know of so far - using some of the latest and common makes and models of vehicles in Singapore as examples - and dive into which might be possible for your car. It's important to keep in mind that authorised dealers and technicians are the best parties to consult with in deciding on the installation location in your vehicle. A multitude of factors will be taken into consideration during such discussions, such as aftermarket modifications or customisations done to your car, as well as the design of your cabin, before a suitable location is recommended. Note: For ease of explanation, the examples used in this list are not exhaustive, and largely comprise new cars currently sold by authorised dealers. The actual position of your PU is ultimately subjected to technical feasibility. Position 1: The passenger's footwell Brief descriptor and key benefit: The passenger's footwell is likely the position that most of us will be familiar with, considering that this was the setup depicted in the first images that debuted of the OBU. Installed as such, the PU will be located on the left lower side of the central column, on the front passenger's side. This keeps the driver's own quarters neat and clear. Who is this for - and who is this not for? As you'll note from the list, most of our favourite family cars are appropriate for Position 1. This includes a significant proportion of the recent lineups from bestselling makes such as Toyota, BYD, Honda, Hyundai, Mazda, and Nissan today, for instance. Other notable names include the Ora Good Cat, and the Kia Niro Hybrid. Within the same general position, the exact point on which the PU will be affixed will also vary based on technical feasibility, and the shape of the centre console. Pictured here is the PU installed at Position 1 on the Hyundai Avante Hybrid, which differs slightly from the picture above of the one in the Citroen e-C4 X This position requires a suitable surface for the PU to be attached to using adhesives - in other words, surfaces that do not have much of a curvature and are non-greasy or untreated. Models that are not appropriate for this position, however, include the Kia EV6 and EV9, as well as well as recently-introduced BMW and Mercedes-Benz models. One reason for this would be the vehicles' interior finish. For example, the PU cannot be mounted in the passenger footwell of most modern Mercedes-Benzes due to the finishing (e.g. leather or fabric) and curvature of the footwell area. (We'll come back to these examples in just a bit.) Models that can opt for Position 1 Models that cannot opt for Position 1 Recent models from BYD Recent electric models from Citroen Recent models from Honda Recent models from Hyundai Recent models from Mazda Recent models from Nissan Ora Good Cat Recent models from Toyota Recent models from Mercedes-Benz Recent models from BMW Kia EV6, EV9 Position 2: The driver's footwell Brief descriptor and key benefit: A second position available for the PU is within the driver's footwell area. This is effectively the mirror image of Position 1: On the right side of the front central column, near the driver's side. For starters, only cars with interiors that are deemed to have sufficient space so as to not cause discomfort to the driver can allow for Position 2. For safety reasons, the PU in this position will be secured by nuts and bolts (don't worry, nothing can be seen). Given the choice between Positions 1 and 2, the latter is likely to be best for drivers who prefer to have the PU as near to them as possible - and do not wish to reach out to the passenger's side. The PU cannot be installed at Position 2 for the entire BYD lineup currently, including the likes of the BYD Seal and BYD Atto 3 Who is this for - and who is this not for? Singaporean drivers will find that most of their favourite family cars can accommodate this position too. Popular examples suitable for Position 2 include recent models from Mazda, Nissan and Toyota. However, others - such as BYD's entire lineup currently, as well as Citroen and Kia's EVs - cannot have the PU in Position 2 for a few reasons. Installation at Position 2 is also not encouraged for cars that still use a foot brake, such as the current-generation Honda Freed As with Position 1, both the surface panel and curvature of the front central column need to be suitable for installation in Position 2. Naturally, maintaining sufficient space on the driver's side is important, too. But there are other possible explanations, including the presence of knee airbags in certain models. You may also know that some models like the Honda Freed still have a foot brake - which will be obstructed when the PU is installed on the driver's side. Models that can opt for Position 2 Models that cannot opt for Position 2 Recent models from Honda - except the Honda Freed Most models from Hyundai Recent models from Mazda Recent models from Nissan Recent models from Toyota Recent models from Mercedes-Benz and BMW (same reasoning as above) Recent models from BYD, Citroen and Kia Ora Good Cat Honda Freed Hyundai Ioniq 5 Position 3: Under the glovebox Brief descriptor and key benefit: Position 3 sees the PU installed underneath the glovebox - which requires a relatively flat surface for the PU to be attached with adhesive. This allows for the PU to be hidden from sight, and for drivers to retain and enjoy a more minimalist look in their car interiors. Owners of the Polestar 2 will also be able to have their PUs installed beneath the car's glovebox Who is this for - and who is this not for? Position 3 is where many Mercedes-Benz and BMW owners will see the PUs of their OBUs installed. Based on these vehicles' layout and finish, we understand that this may also be the only feasible location for most of them. Models that can opt for Position 3 Models that cannot opt for Position 3 Recent models from Mercedes-Benz Recent models from BMW Recent models from Honda Recent models from Toyota Selected models from Hyundai Polestar 2 Recent models from BYD, Kia, Mazda, Nissan, and Subaru Currently, the only mass market brand that allows for the PU to be installed under the driver's seat is Subaru Position 4: Under the driver's seat Brief descriptor and key benefit: Like Position 3, installation at Position 4 keeps the PU out of sight and offers the similar benefit of keeping the interior relatively clean-looking and minimalist. The catch, however, is that this is only applicable for vehicles that have sufficient clearance under the seat for the unit to be installed. Which brings us to… Who is this for - and who is this not for? …the fact that Position 4 may likely be one of the more out-of-reach position for cars (both literally and figuratively). If you're into a certain sort of rugged vehicle boasting symmetrical all-wheel drive, however, you're in luck. Currently, Sgcarmart only knows of one mass market brand in Singapore that allows for installation under the driver's seat - and that is Subaru. Another position: Floating centre console Beyond these main positions, however, there is yet another area that appears to be on the rise for newer cars. Carmakers that have optimised the front quarters of their cars to create more interior space have one special benefit: An uninterrupted area flowing between the front passenger and driver, which we refer to as a 'floating centre console'. The PU can be installed beneath the floating centre console on modern EVs, including the Volkswagen ID.4 and Hyundai Ioniq 5 (the latter only allows for this installation position) With this space freed up, some dealers are also allowing for customers to choose the centre console area as a point of installation for their PU. The floating centre console is perhaps most commonly associated with electric vehicles (EVs) - but even combustion-powered cars with floating centre consoles can allow for this position. Examples of popular EVs include the likes of the Hyundai Ioniq 5, the Volkswagen ID.4 and ID.5, and - as mentioned earlier - the Kia EV6 and EV9. A quick recap! As evidenced by the list above, it's really not just the passenger footwell where you can install the PU of your car's new OBU. A good range of alternatives might be possible as well, each bringing with it its own unique benefits. Again, however, it must be reiterated that the position of installation is ultimately dependent on your car model (and the possible modifications you may have made to it), which consequently influences the technical feasibility of each position. As mentioned above, motorists are encouraged to consult their preferred authorised workshops and technicians during their OBU installation appointments. Owners of existing vehicles are also welcome to install their OBUs early, and those who wish to do so can contact their preferred authorised workshop directly to schedule their installation together with their regular servicing appointment. In other words, there is no need to wait for notification, and no more booking via the microsite; drivers need simply contact the workshop directly to schedule the OBU installation. Finally, to maximise their own convenience, motorists are also encouraged to sign up for NETS Auto-Top Up - which handily eliminates the need to remove their CEPAS cards from the PU for manual top ups. All motorists who have installed the OBU can also look forward to receiving a complimentary NETS Motoring Card. Still have burning questions on your mind about what life with ERP 2.0, or life onboard with the OBU might be like? Let us know!

We tell you what to expect about the new On-Board Unit (OBU) and share a few handy tips, too! The ERP 2.0 is based on Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) technology, which allows Land Transport Authority (LTA) to manage congestion without the need for physical gantries. It also provides the option to implement distance-based charging in the future. With this move, it will require drivers to change from the previous In-Vehicle Unit (IU) to the new On-Board Unit (OBU). However, after spending the past month with the new OBU, we learned that there's nothing to worry about and in fact, there's plenty to look forward to. Here's what you can expect from the new system. The OBU starts up with a greeting screen, and you can choose whether or not to display the clock Making the appointment Car owners will progressively be notified by LTA via mail, email and/or SMS, on their turn to have the new OBU installed in their vehicles. You'll have a two-month window for this, during which the installation fees are waived. The time it takes to install the OBU depends on several factors, but mainly, it'll depend on your vehicle's make and model. In our experience, it took just under two hours on a weekday afternoon for Cycle & Carriage to fit the OBU to a Kia Cerato. It's best to arrive on time, so that the installer will have enough time to do a proper job and take you through the system once it's done. The antenna will typically be positioned where the IU unit is normally located Decisions and positions The new OBU consists of three components: An optional touchscreen display, a processing unit and an antenna. If you've opted to install the touchscreen, you'll be asked where you'd like it positioned. There is some room for flexibility here, but the placement is limited by the length of the cable. Get behind the wheel and adjust the seat to your preferred driving position. From here, you can tell the installer where you want the screen to be placed. Our advice is to put the screen on your right so that it sits just above the dashboard, making it easy to see/read. On the other hand, if you choose not to have the touchscreen, you'll need to register your smartphone on Onemotoring Digital Services and pair it to the OBU using Bluetooth. There are currently four apps you can choose from to use as an alternative to the touchscreen display. Tapping on 'My OBU' lets you view your OBU number, which is identical to your previous IU number In addition to ERP information such as road pricing alerts and your CEPAS card balance, these apps also offer features such as navigation and real-time traffic information. However, do note that due to security concerns, these apps cannot provide the full functionality of the touchscreen display. The touchscreen is also where you can adjust the system's feedback volume as needed. Without it, you'll be asked to set your preferred volume at the point of installation. You will need to bring your vehicle back to the workshop if you want to adjust the volume again. The processing unit is usually placed on the passenger side, but depending on your car's make and model, it can be located elsewhere, too Remember, if you do decide to install the touchscreen later, you'll need to pay a fee, too, so weigh your options carefully. Meanwhile, the processing unit is typically placed by the centre console on the front passenger's side. There is some flexibility in its placement, but again, this depends on what is feasible for your vehicle. The location of the antenna is quite straightforward, usually at the bottom right of the windscreen. The menu system is simple, so it's easy to tweak various preferences Using the system We found it easy to get acquainted with the OBU. In the settings menu, you can adjust the 'beep' volume and screen brightness and choose whether you wish to display the clock. Having a digital clock is handy, too, because eventually the OBU time is synchronised with the satellites for accurate charging, thus avoiding disputes. More importantly, there is no need to worry about your season parking or any backend payment arrangement. Your IU number will be ported over to the OBU, so you won't have to re-apply or transfer any season parking or even update the backend payments you currently have. On the go, the OBU works just like the IU when it comes to deducting ERP and parking charges. The display helps inform drivers about the ERP charging info, especially in the absence of large physical gantries in the future. Handily, the large screen also makes it easier to view how much you've been charged and your card balance. However, bear in mind that for those carpark gantries that require drivers to tap or insert the CEPAS card, you must still do this even with the OBU. Fortunately, each car owner who installs the OBU will receive a free NETS motoring card that you can keep handy. Now, what if you've signed up for auto-top up feature so that you don't have to keep topping up the CEPAS card, but need to use a complimentary parking coupon? The OBU touchscreen has a button marked 'Card Payment', which can be pressed to temporarily disable card deduction for complimentary button. It is on by default, so tapping it turns off this function and lets you use coupons. There are other new advantages as well. Apart from the aforementioned REP to be rolled out later, the OBU also reminds you to drive carefully when you're in School Zones and Silver Zones, and to avoid driving in the bus lanes. It'll also tell you when you're approaching a fixed speed camera, thereby helping you avoid fines. More functions in the pipeline The OBU is designed to be "upgradeable", so LTA can add features as needed. When these features are ready, they are automatically pushed out over-the-air to the OBUs. There is no need to bring the vehicles back to the workshops for upgrades. The 'Card Payment' button for instance, was seamlessly added without us having to do anything. We didn't have to configure any Internet or WiFi access or login to Singpass. LTA will also introduce real-time traffic incident updates, so that drivers can be warned of congestion or accidents. The OBU will also eventually be able to alert drivers if they are approaching an ERP charging location and allow drivers of Singapore-registered vehicles to seamlessly pay for tolls at the Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints. LTA is also working with the Traffic Police to expand the safety notifications to include more speed camera zones to remind drivers to keep within the speed limits at these locations. Advance notices of road closures are even provided - they will appear when the car is driven near the location so the driver can plan ahead. The OBU installation was relatively painless, and the user experience has been seamless thus far so we can confidently say that there is no cause for worry or anxiety in switching to the OBU. With more features in the pipeline, the OBU will help make driving in Singapore only become more convenient in time.