COE premiums in Singapore hit new record as demand surges ahead of regulatory changes
Certificate of Entitlement (COE) premiums in Singapore surged sharply in the latest tender, with smaller-car certificates reaching a record S$119,003. The rise reflects intensified buying activity ahead of policy changes that will raise car ownership costs from 2026.
- COE premiums for smaller cars reached an all-time high of S$119,003 in the latest tender.
- Strong demand is attributed to upcoming changes in EV rebates and ownership surcharges announced by the LTA.
- Dealers report brisk sales activity as buyers rush to register vehicles before the revised framework takes effect.
Singapore’s Certificate of Entitlement (COE) premiums surged across all categories in the latest bidding exercise, with smaller-car certificates reaching a record S$119,003.
The increase reflects heightened demand ahead of impending regulatory changes that will alter car ownership costs from January 2026.
According to results released after the 24 October tender, Category A COEs — covering smaller cars and electric vehicles (EVs) with engine capacities up to 1,600cc and power output not exceeding 130bhp — rose by 10.3 per cent from S$107,889 in the previous bidding on 3 September. This surpasses the previous record and signals growing urgency among potential car buyers to secure registration before new cost structures take effect.
Category B COEs, which apply to larger and more powerful cars, climbed 7.4 per cent to S$136,890. This marks the highest level since October 2023, when premiums hit S$150,001 during the second bidding exercise that month.
Meanwhile, Category E COEs — open certificates transferable to most vehicle types except motorcycles — rose 9.9 per cent to S$140,502.
The last time open-category premiums were this high was also in October 2023, when they reached a record of S$158,004. These certificates are often purchased by dealers to allow immediate vehicle registration, giving customers flexibility without waiting for the next tender.
Category C, covering commercial vehicles such as vans and trucks, rose by 1.3 per cent to S$72,501.
Motorcycle premiums under Category D registered a smaller increase of 1.2 per cent, reaching S$9,209.
