BlueSG, Singapore’s only electric car-sharing service offering point-to-point mobility, has confirmed that a significant number of its employees have been retrenched as the company prepares for a complete operational pause and future relaunch in 2026.
Sources familiar with the situation claim that as much as 80% of the company’s workforce has been affected, although BlueSG has declined to disclose exact numbers. The company’s decision to drastically reduce headcount is part of a broader restructuring tied to an upcoming “bold platform upgrade,” which was previously announced alongside plans to suspend services starting 8 August.
The move has raised serious concerns about job security in Singapore’s gig and transport economy — particularly for workers employed in non-unionised environments.
BlueSG Confirms Downsizing, Promises Support for Affected Staff
In a formal statement issued in response to media queries, BlueSG stated that the company will continue operations with a “lean core team” during the transitional phase. It acknowledged that the decision to downsize was difficult, but necessary to streamline resources and focus on long-term goals.
“Supporting affected employees remains a top priority — with fair severance, clear communication, and meaningful career transition,” the company noted. BlueSG also expressed intentions to potentially rehire some former staff when its new platform launches next year.
BlueSG added that it is exploring redeployment options across its wider group of affiliated companies, suggesting that some laid-off workers may find opportunities elsewhere in the ecosystem.
NTUC Steps In to Assist Non-Unionised Workers
Although BlueSG is a non-unionised company, the National Transport Workers’ Union (NTWU) has confirmed that it will step in to assist affected workers who are registered union members.
Yeo Wan Ling, executive secretary of the NTWU, said in a statement that impacted Singaporeans and Permanent Residents can also turn to NTUC’s e2i (Employment and Employability Institute) for support. Services available include job matching, career coaching, and workshops aimed at improving employability — a lifeline for those abruptly displaced by corporate restructuring.
Union members can also access the TADM@NTUC platform for workplace advisory services or file for recourse if they believe due process was not followed.
Retrenchment in the Tech-Mobility Sector Highlights Wider Risks
This development is the latest in a string of retrenchments across Singapore’s evolving tech and transport sectors, where firms are racing to balance innovation with sustainable labour practices. As more companies shift towards automation, digitisation, and business model reinvention, workers in traditional operations roles face increasing risk of displacement.
BlueSG’s announcement comes at a time when the electric vehicle (EV) and car-sharing market in Singapore is facing intense pressure from rising costs, competitive disruption, and evolving commuter preferences. While the upcoming relaunch promises a more seamless and tech-driven user experience, it remains to be seen if the company can regain the confidence of both its customers and its former staff.
For now, BlueSG’s restructuring serves as a stark reminder: in the pursuit of digital transformation, businesses must not forget the human costs involved.