Vision of auto-parking cars and solar-power roads

By year 2065, Singapore will have solar-power roads that can absorb rainwater to prevent floods and cars that self-drive to adapt its ageing population. 

This is the vision submitted by Singaporeans to BuildSG2065, a contest being held by The Straits Times and CapitaLand, one of Asia's largest real estate companies, to mark the country's 50^th anniversary. The contest requires participants to submit their visions for the nation in another 50 years' time, and could stand to win prizes.

25-year old Ernest Lin submitted an entry in the first category. He sees a greater role for Singapore's roads, which makes up about 12 percent of land use.  "In 2065, solar-power roads will be a reality in Singapore. Roads and expressways will act as a power generator to supply sustainable energy to charge cars, power homes, industries and so forth," Mr. Lin said.

Another contestant, 36-year old Ryan Wong, said new, porous roads could help Singapore during heavy rain. "The roads will be able to absorb water, with technology keeping the surface dry and not allowing any water to accumulate on it," he said. He added that rainwater collected in the roads' sub-layers could be used in eco-friendly precincts. "This can also help Singapore to become a more 'weather-proof' nation," Mr. Wong said.

On the other hand, Mr. Benjamin Lim, 47, believes Singapore will be an island of self-driving cars by 2065."These will even know how to auto-park at the destination. We won't need to bother finding parking spaces because the smart buildings will communicate with the smart cars, and direct the cars to the right spots," he said.