MKS have been approved by the Land Transport Authority Singapore to provide verification certificates for vehicle maximum system power output (MSPO) for hybrid vehicles. This is particularly relevant for vehicles that are driven by a combination of electric motor and engine power.
Impact on Registration and Duty
Hybrid vehicles in Singapore are subject to:
- Additional Registration Fee (ARF) tiers
- Vehicular Emissions Scheme (VES) rebates/surcharges
- Electric Vehicle Early Adoption Incentive (EEAI) (for PHEVs/EVs)
- COE Category based on engine capacity and power
Examples:
- A full hybrid with engine ≤ 1600cc and ≤ 130bhp typically qualifies under Category A COE
- A PHEV with large output (e.g., >130bhp) falls under Category B
Series Hybrid System
Mechanism
In this system, the engine is used solely for generating electricity, and the wheels are powered exclusively by the motor. The engine operates at its most efficient level for power generation, resulting in low fuel consumption and a quiet ride.
Features
EV-like driving feel as the motor drives the wheels directly.
Examples of the system
Nissan e-POWER
Models: Nissan Note e-POWER, Nissan Serena e-POWER
Toyota (Daihatsu) e-SMART
Models: Toyota Raize Hybrid, Daihatsu Rocky HEV
Parallel Hybrid System (Mild Hybrid system)
Mechanism
The motor has a small capacity, and the engine primarily drives the system, with the motor playing a supplementary role.
Features
This system is called a mild hybrid, where driving solely on the motor is either impossible or unsuitable for long distances or high-speed travel.
Examples of the system
Suzuki SHVS (Smart Hybrid Vehicle by Suzuki)
Models: Suzuki Swift, Suzuki Spacia
Mazda M Hybrid
Models: Mazda 2, CX-30
Subaru e-BOXER
Models: Subaru XV Hybrid, Subaru Forester e-BOXER
Nissan S-Hybrid – previous system before e-POWER
Models: Nissan Serena S-Hybrid model
Honda IMA (Integrated Motor Assist) – previous system before i-MMD (e:HEV)
Models: Honda Insight (1st, 2nd generation), Honda CR-Z
Series-Parallel Hybrid System (Full / Strong Hybrid System)
Mechanism
Combines features of series and parallel hybrid systems. The engine can directly drive the wheels or operate solely for power generation, depending on the situation.
Features
Provides a good balance between fuel efficiency and driving performance by intelligently switching between motor and engine.
Examples of the system
Toyota THS (Toyota Hybrid System)
Models: Toyota Prius Hybrid, Toyota Aqua Hybrid
Honda i-MMD (Intelligent Multi-Mode Drive) → e:HEV
Models: Honda Fit e:HEV, Honda Stepwagon e:HEV
Subaru e-BOXER (S:HEV) – adopted Toyota THS to produce Strong hybrid system
Models: Subaru Crosstrek S:HEV
MKS Inspections LLC is proud to be an LTA authorized provider of Maximum System Power Output verification for vehicles imported into Singapore.
