Inchcape report highlights Singapore’s role in accelerating multi-pathway electrification
Inchcape’s latest study shows Singapore leading Asia Pacific in electrified vehicle adoption through consumer choice and multi-pathway strategies.
Singapore is emerging as one of Asia Pacific’s most advanced markets for new energy vehicles, driven by high consumer readiness, supportive policy frameworks and a growing demand for electrified options that cater to different lifestyles. This is according to Drivers of Change, a new global study by Inchcape that examines consumer sentiment towards personal mobility and readiness for electrified vehicles across the region.
The research positions Singapore as a model market where consumer awareness, infrastructure maturity and regulatory support converge to accelerate the adoption of electrified mobility. Around one-third of consumers in Singapore already own an electric or hybrid vehicle, while more than 55 percent have changed their primary mode of transport in the past two years. These shifts reflect both increasing confidence in electrified technologies and the availability of vehicles that address varied use cases, from urban commuting to family transport and lifestyle-driven mobility.
Drivers of Change was conducted by Inchcape’s Centre for the Future of Mobility and surveyed nearly 3,600 respondents across seven Asia Pacific markets. The findings suggest that Singapore’s progress offers a glimpse into how electrification could scale across the region when consumer expectations, policy direction and commercial execution are aligned. Phil Jenkins, CEO APAC at Inchcape, said the transition to sustainable mobility is shaped by local conditions rather than a single global blueprint. “There’s no one-size-fits-all model. Success depends on understanding each market’s unique realities. Singapore shows us what’s possible when policy, consumer sophistication, and accessible solutions align.”
Consumer readiness shaped by choice, value and confidence
Across Asia Pacific, sentiment towards new energy vehicles remains broadly positive, with 83 percent of respondents expressing favourable views. Singapore ranks among the leading markets for awareness of electrified powertrains, including battery electric vehicles and hybrids. Purchase intent is also strong, with 57 percent of APAC respondents expecting to own a new energy vehicle. This places Singapore on par with Thailand and well ahead of emerging markets such as Indonesia and the Philippines.
While enthusiasm for electrification is clear, the research highlights a pragmatic approach among Singapore consumers. Hybrids continue to play a critical role, with 36 percent of respondents across Asia Pacific agreeing that hybrid vehicles offer the right balance between environmental responsibility and cost efficiency. In Singapore, this reflects a preference for flexibility and reliability rather than an immediate shift to fully electric vehicles for all drivers.
Khee Siong Ng, Managing Director of Inchcape Singapore, said local consumers value innovation and sustainability but remain focused on practical considerations. “Singapore’s consumers are discerning. They value innovation and sustainability, but they also demand reliability, transparency, and flexibility. Our study shows that while sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, real adoption depends on offering the right technology at the right time. That means multiple pathways, not just one.”
Cost considerations in Singapore also diverge from the broader regional picture. Only 31 percent of local respondents identified high upfront cost as the biggest barrier to adopting new energy vehicles. Instead, consumers place greater emphasis on overall value, confidence in service support, and access to suitable financing options. Financing, in particular, emerged as the most influential factor shaping purchase decisions, highlighting the importance of flexible ownership models and clear cost structures.
After-sales support and education remain key areas of concern. Around 80 percent of respondents across Asia Pacific want stronger service capabilities for new energy vehicles, while about 30 percent cite servicing costs as a major consideration. In addition, 58 percent say they require more education on battery lifespan, safety and total cost of ownership. These findings suggest that adoption will increasingly be driven by trust, transparency and long-term support, rather than product specifications alone.
Six electrified debuts at Singapore Motorshow 2026
In response to the study’s insights, Inchcape will unveil six electrified vehicles at the Singapore Motorshow 2026, spanning battery electric and hybrid electric models across premium, mainstream and compact segments. The launches reflect Inchcape’s multi-pathway strategy, which aims to support electrification through consumer choice rather than a single mandated transition.
Among the debuts is the Toyota bZ4X, Toyota’s first battery electric vehicle to be introduced in Singapore. The model builds on Toyota’s long-standing experience in electrified mobility, shaped by decades of hybrid development. Designed for everyday usability, the bZ4X focuses on reliability, quality and seamless integration into daily life as Toyota expands its electrification portfolio.
Lexus will present the ES in both pure electric and full hybrid variants, marking a new chapter for the luxury sedan. Inspired by the LF-ZC battery electric concept, the eighth-generation ES is developed around a focus on driving refinement, cabin comfort and quietness. By offering both self-charging hybrid and fully electric drivetrains, Lexus aims to provide customers with greater flexibility based on their driving patterns and expectations.
The sixth-generation Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Electric Vehicle is positioned as an adventure-ready SUV for drivers balancing weekday commutes with weekend travel. Built on Toyota’s proven hybrid technology, it combines fuel efficiency with practicality and is equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 4.0, the brand’s most comprehensive suite of active safety features to date.
Toyota is also introducing the Vios Hybrid Electric Vehicle to Singapore for the first time. Positioned as an accessible urban hybrid, the Vios HEV delivers best-in-class fuel efficiency of 27 kilometres per litre. Its compact dimensions and 1.5-litre hybrid powertrain are optimised for stop-start traffic and tight urban environments, targeting drivers who prioritise low running costs and everyday comfort.
Suzuki will showcase its first battery electric vehicle in Singapore with the all-new e-Vitara. Engineered on the newly developed HEARTECT-e platform, the model blends more than three decades of Vitara heritage with a fully electric architecture designed to enhance structural rigidity, safety performance and efficiency.
Rounding out the line-up is the Suzuki Fronx, a compact crossover aimed at urban drivers. Featuring coupe-inspired styling, smart hybrid efficiency and space-efficient design, the Fronx is positioned as a versatile option for city commuting and short getaways, with an emphasis on connectivity, safety and individuality.
Ng said the launches reflect a deliberate response to consumer expectations. “These aren’t product launches, they’re proof points. Our research told us that Singapore consumers are ready for new energy vehicles, but they want options. Some are ready for full battery electric vehicles. Others prefer the flexibility of hybrids. By offering both, across multiple brands and price points, we’re not forcing a transition, we’re enabling it.”
The Singapore Motorshow 2026 will take place from 8–11 January 2026 at Suntec Singapore Convention and Exhibition Centre. Inchcape’s showcase will feature all six new models, alongside interactive technology displays and consultations with specialists on financing, servicing and the transition to electrified mobility.
