COE Premiums Rebound in First March Bidding, Cat B Jumps 8.6%
Editorial Team
The editorial team at EV Singapore, bringing you the latest news and insights on electric vehicles.
COE premiums climbed across all categories in the first bidding exercise of March 2026, with the Category B premium posting the sharpest rise. The results, released on 4 March 2026, signal a potential reversal of the brief softening in COE prices seen in the early weeks of the year.
Why it matters to you: Higher COE premiums mean higher on-the-road prices for new cars. If you're planning a purchase, these results are a key data point for your budget.
The Numbers
| Category | March 1st Bidding | Change from Previous |
|---|---|---|
| Cat A (small cars / EVs ≤110kW) | S$108,220 | ▲ S$1,719 (+1.6%) |
| Cat B (large cars / EVs >110kW) | S$114,002 | ▲ S$9,001 (+8.6%) |
| Cat C (goods vehicles) | S$76,000 | ▲ S$1,001 (+1.3%) |
| Cat E (open category) | S$114,890 | ▲ S$2,000 (+1.8%) |
Category B's 8.6% jump is particularly notable. It comes after two consecutive bidding exercises where the Category B premium had fallen, and it re-establishes the more typical pricing hierarchy where Category B is more expensive than Category A.
What's Driving the Increase
Several factors are contributing to the upward pressure on COE prices:
Pent-up demand from the Singapore Motorshow: January's motor show generated significant interest, and dealers are now bidding more aggressively to fulfil orders placed during the event.
PARF rebate cuts: The government's decision to slash PARF rebates — which took effect on 20 February — has created a sense of urgency among buyers who want to lock in their purchases before the full financial impact of the changes becomes clear. This has translated into more competitive bidding.
EV showroom surge: BYD, Aion, and MG have all reported significant increases in showroom traffic (20%, 30-40%, and 50% respectively) since the PARF changes were announced. More buyers in the market means more competitive COE bidding.
Our Take
The Category B rebound is a reminder that COE prices can be volatile. The brief period where Category B was cheaper than Category A was an anomaly driven by specific market dynamics, and the market appears to be correcting. For EV buyers, the key question remains: will the LTA's announced review of the COE categorisation system change the rules of the game before you make your purchase?
The next COE bidding exercise is scheduled for 18 March 2026.
Source: LTA COE Bidding Results, 4 March 2026
Related Articles
LTA Allows Class 3/3A Licence Holders to Drive Heavier Electric Vehicles
Class 3 and 3A licence holders in Singapore can now drive electric vehicles up to 3,000kg, an increase from the current 2,500kg limit.
Singapore Sees Rise in Electric Vehicle Fires in 2025, SCDF Data Shows
The SCDF recorded four EV fires in 2025, up from one in 2024, as Singapore's EV and PHEV population surpassed 55,800 vehicles. Authorities are studying distinct number plates for EVs to help first responders.
Volvo Expands EX30 Recall in Singapore Over Battery Fire Risk
Volvo and distributor Wearnes Automotive have expanded the EX30 recall to 194 Singapore owners due to a battery hardware defect that poses a fire risk when charged beyond 70%.
Stay Charged Up
Get the latest EV news, reviews, and analysis delivered to your inbox every week.