The High Cost of Luxury: Singapore’s Car Permit Economy

Owning a car is often seen as a symbol of freedom. But in Singapore, it is also one of the most expensive financial decisions a household can make. In this episode, we explore the country's unique Certificate of Entitlement system, examining how a costly permit has become one of the world's most powerful tools for controlling vehicle ownership and reducing urban congestion. We trace the trade-offs between private convenience and public policy, asking why many residents continue to pursue car ownership despite world-class public transport and the enormous costs of buying and maintaining a vehicle. The story reveals how Singapore has engineered one of the world's most efficient transport systems, while also raising broader questions about affordability, social status, and the price societies are willing to pay for cleaner, less congested cities.https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/24/world/asia/car-certificate-singapore-luxury.html