Information on Specifications of Cars Manufactured Abroad

10 Er Dr Lee Bee Wah asked the Minister for Transport (a) how are officers at LTA and the vehicle inspection centres kept abreast of changes in the specifications of cars manufactured abroad; and (b) why are some car exhaust systems not allowed even though these may emit lower noise levels and are well within the decibels allowed.

Mr Khaw Boon Wan: All imported vehicles have to be approved by the Land Transport Authority (LTA) before they can be registered for use. As part of the approval process, the importer has to provide the full specifications of the vehicle model. From this, LTA will know if there is any change in the vehicle specifications.

Car exhaust systems must comply with both LTA's safety regulations and the noise and emissions standards set by the National Environment Agency. Car exhaust systems that meet noise standards but fail emissions or safety standards will not be allowed.