NTUC, LTA, platform operators step in as Autobahn vehicle repossessions hit private-hire drivers

A coordinated tripartite response is underway to support private-hire drivers affected by recent leasing company Autobahn Rent A Car’s vehicle repossessions, which have prevented many from working and earning an income.

NTUC-affiliated associations—the National Private Hire Vehicles Association (NPHVA) and the National Taxi Association (NTA)—jointly urged for immediate action on 7 January 2026, and are collaborating with the Land Transport Authority (LTA) and platform operators ComfortDelGro, Grab, and STRIDES Premier to deliver direct support to the affected drivers.

NTUC Assistant Secretary-General and NPHVA and NTA Advisor Yeo Wan Ling said the situation has created hardship for affected drivers.

She added: “Drivers depend on their vehicles to earn a living, and we take their livelihoods seriously. I am glad that our tripartite partners came together swiftly to help affected drivers get back on the road. NPHVA and NTA will continue to work with LTA and platform operators to protect and support our drivers.”

Helping private-hire drivers get back on the road quickly

The top priority is reducing downtime so drivers can resume work as soon as possible, said the Platform Work Associations.

Platform operators have stepped forward with vehicle leasing options. These include deposit waivers, flexible rental arrangements and income recovery incentives.

ComfortDelGro has made vehicles available with a $0 driveaway option, flexible rentals across its private-hire and taxi fleets, and additional platform incentives to help drivers recover lost income.

Grab has introduced $0 deposit rentals for GrabRentals mileage cars. Completion bonuses of up to $1,000 are available. The company also protects existing driver reward tiers during vehicle transitions and provides fast-tracked vehicle matching to reduce downtime.

STRIDES Premier is offering rentals with no deposit, competitive daily rates, and free rent for the first three days.

Autobahn fails to get court protection against creditors

On 26 December 2025, Autobahn released a statement that its application for creditor protection was dismissed by the High Court. It added that the company intends to appeal the decision.

But on 7 January 2026, the Business Times reported that Autobahn has withdrawn its appeal.

Autobahn Rent A Car and its group of related companies have a fleet of 1,700 vehicles, according to a report by The Straits Times. 

Following the High Court’s decision, creditors can pursue debt recovery.

Autobahn reportedly owes more than $300 million to its creditors, which includes major banks DBS, UOB and OCBC and other financial institutions.

On 29 December 2025, accounting and business advisory firm Baker Tilly was appointed by one of the banks as the receiver of 58 cars, supplied to Autobahn Rent A Car.

Legal assistance for NTUC members

LTA has also received information that the car insurance for some Autobahn cars has not been renewed or has been cancelled.

LTA has reminded the company that, as owners of the cars, it is their responsibility to ensure they are properly insured and licensed.

Under the Singapore law, it is an offence to use a vehicle without valid insurance coverage. The penalty includes a fine of up to $1,000 or imprisonment of up to three months or both, and a mandatory disqualification from holding a driving licence for at least 12 months. Affected drivers have been advised to ensure compliance before resuming work.

NTUC members affected by the repossessions and with questions about contractual obligations may seek general guidance for general guidance from NTUC’s legal clinic through lawworks@ntuc.org.sg or nphva@ntuc.org.sg.

For private hirers enquiring about leasing availability, contact the operators directly.