Siemens Mobility strongly invested in SG’s transport infrastructure

CEO Michel Obadia highlights Siemens Mobility’s role in preparing the Cross Island Line for 2030 and supporting Singapore’s decarbonisation journey.

As Singapore gears up for the 2030 launch of the Cross Island Line, significant advancements in technology and enhanced features are being planned with the help of Siemens Mobility for what will be the country’s longest fully underground Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) line.

The Singapore Business Review recently sat down with Michel Obadia, CEO for Asia-Pacific and Singapore of Siemens Mobility, as he revealed the company’s contributions to provide the newest technological enhancements to the mass transportation system.

But he also underscored that preparations for the CIL’s future operations includes how Siemens Mobility supports Singapore’s decarbonisation goals.

“Cross Island Line is the continuation of Downtown Line, which is in operation, as well as Jurong Line, which is under construction,” said Obadia as he reiterated Siemens Mobility’s commitment to using technology to enhance value for their customers in terms of reliability, availability, and cost-effectiveness.

He mentioned several improvements made to the Cross Island Line, such as enhancements of the onboard computer system, radio system, diagnostic tools, and obsolescence resilience. The company focused on employing advanced technology for better performance.

When asked whether the preparations are on track to beginning operations in 2030, Obadia responded positively, stating: “Our team is ready. We have had a smooth mobilisation on this project.”

The CEO acknowledged the duration and high degree of interface as positive challenges which he assured Siemens has the experience to handle, ensuring an integrated system post-testing and commissioning.

Obadia spoke highly of Singapore’s rail system in terms of efficiency and safety. “There is no compromise on safety, it’s paramount in what we do,” he asserted.

He also praised the reliability of Singapore's system, mentioning that the Mean Distance Between Failures (MDBF) has improved significantly over the past decade.

Obadia expressed pride in the Downtown Line achieving an MDBF of 4 million, signifying high reliability.

On the subject of decarbonisation, Obadia acknowledged Siemens Mobility’s pride in being part of Singapore’s green plan. He stressed the importance of sustainable solutions, pointing out that the electrified network of the MRT, coupled with energy-saving and reuse features, contributes significantly to a lower carbon footprint.

“The passenger experience is also part of a sustainable transport system,” he added.

Siemens Mobility has an extensive portfolio of projects in Singapore, but Obadia emphasised the importance of partnership and growth.

“We want to make sure we are resilient in terms of providing support on a long-term basis,” he said.

Siemens Mobility has been focusing on competency growth, localisation, and forming partnerships with local institutions and industries.

Obadia affirmed this through his insights during the Singapore Business Review interview, which painted a picture of a company deeply invested in contributing to Singapore’s transport sector.

Siemens Mobility, based on his portrayal of the firm, is not just looking to implement projects but to be a part of the fabric that weaves Singapore's future in transport and sustainability.