Autonomous shuttle in Punggol apparently brakes hard at traffic light for no reason
E-brake.
On August 13, 2026, an autonomous vehicle (AV) in Punggol abruptly applied brakes at a green traffic light, alarming drivers behind. This incident, captured by dashcam footage, occurred around 11:15 am at Punggol Field. The AV, bearing a Grab logo, exhibited no apparent obstacles. Subsequently, the traffic light turned red, and a recording vehicle behind had to brake hard to avoid a collision.
The AV was stopped, with a van also halting due to the close call. The AV operator, Grab, stated that safety operators are always present to intervene and offer feedback for system improvements. The Land Transport Authority (LTA) is reviewing the incident with Grab and WeRide to understand the circumstances and determine any necessary enhancements.
AVs on public roads must comply with traffic rules and LTA's safety and operational requirements. The LTA has established protocols to manage accidents involving AVs, and operators must maintain liability insurance. If regulatory requirements are not met, LTA may take actions such as suspending or cancelling an AV's authorization to operate on public roads.
This incident is not the first of its kind, as AVs have previously exhibited erratic behaviors. In response to such incidents, LTA has directed operators to pause testing until investigations are completed. Media reports indicate that Grab operates two routes in Punggol, while ComfortDelGro operates one.
Written by urgent.news from Mothership's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
