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Short-Term vs Long-Term Car Leasing in Singapore: What’s Right for Your Business?

August 08, 2025

Category: Blog Articles

Choosing between short-term and long-term car leasing can significantly impact your operational flexibility and bottom line—especially in a fast-paced market like Singapore. Whether you’re a startup managing unpredictable transport needs or an established corporation seeking cost-efficient fleet solutions, understanding the key differences will help you make a smarter decision.

According to 6Wresearch, the Singapore Automobile Rental and Leasing market size is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.8% in terms of revenue during 2025–2031, indicating strong and consistent market momentum in the coming years.

What is Short-Term Car Leasing?

Short‑term leasing generally spans from a few days to up to a few months, often finalized via digital platforms or apps.
Ideal for:

  • Business visitors or expatriates on limited assignments
  • Short-term staffing, project-based teams
  • Temporary fleet expansion

Advantages:

  • High flexibility: Scale or switch vehicles rapidly
  • No long-term commitment: Offers agility for unpredictable needs
  • All-inclusive billing: Most packages cover insurance, maintenance, and road tax

finding car leasing that's right for you is not easy

What is Long-Term Car Leasing?

Long-term leasing usually spans 2 to 5 years, offering more stable and cost-efficient vehicle access for established operational needs.

Ideal for:

  • Consistent vehicle usage (e.g. sales teams, operations)
  • Companies preferring predictable monthly expenses
  • Businesses needing fleet brand consistency and reliability

Advantages:

  • Lower monthly payments compared to short-term leasing or depreciation
  • Economies of scale for multi-vehicle contracts
  • All-inclusive service: Includes maintenance, insurance, replacement vehicles—even roadside assistance.
  • Tax and GST benefits: Monthly lease payments and related expenses often qualify for deductions—boosting financial efficiency for corporate entities

According to major industry studies:

  • In 2024, 61.18% of Singapore’s car rental revenue came from short-term leases, while long‑term contract demand is growing at 11.1% CAGR through 2030 Mordor Intelligence.
  • The Singapore rental and leasing market is projected to grow 7.8% annually in revenue during 2025–2031, driven by rising mobility needs and increasing corporate demand 6Wresearch+1LinkedIn+1
  • Short‑term and subscription-based leasing models are favored by millennials, startups, expatriates, and tech-savvy consumers, especially through mobile platforms LinkedIn+1techwireasia.com+1
  • A shift toward electric and hybrid fleets is accelerating, aligned with Singapore’s sustainability goals and EV subsidies sgcarmart.com sgcarmart.com+2LinkedIn+2Data Insights Market+2.

    car leasing can be use as cost saving effort by company

    Comparing Short-Term and Long-Term Leasing at a Glance

    Feature

    Short‑Term Leasing

    Long‑Term Leasing

    Typical duration

    Daily to monthly

    12–60 months

    Flexibility

    Very high

    Moderate

    Monthly cost

    Higher per-day cost

    Lower per-day cost

    Ideal for

    Temporary needs, tourism, projects

    Ongoing operations, brand consistency

    Included services

    Insurance, tax, maintenance

    Includes roadside assistance, replacement car

    Administrative burden

    Low—digital process often

    Managed by leasing partner

    Tax / GST benefits

    Limited

    Yes—lease payments and expenses deductible

    Which Car Leasing Options Should Your Business Choose?

    To determine the right fit, assess:

    • Usage duration & predictability: Short-term suits uncertain timelines; long-term gives stability.
    • Scalability needs: Long-term contracts can be structured for bulk fleets with better pricing.
    • Cost visibility and tax efficiency: Long-term gives predictable budgeting and GST benefits.
    • Fleet branding & consistency: Choosing long-term helps maintain a unified brand image.

    Why Choose Tokyo Century Leasing Singapore (TCL)?

    • Global reliability with local know-how—trusted by multinational and local clients in the region.
    • Flexible fleet options, including Petrol, hybrid, and EV models customized to business requirements.
    • Comprehensive service bundles: includes maintenance, replacement vehicles, roadside support, and insurance.
    • Expert advisory: dedicated fleet consultants evaluate total cost of ownership and align your leasing plan with strategic goals.

    TCL offers both short-term and long-term leasing solutions tailored to corporate workflows—helping businesses remain agile and cost-efficient.
    TCL Singapore supports both short- and long-term leasing plans tailored for corporate clients. We help you evaluate total cost of ownership, operational goals, and vehicle usage patterns before recommending a leasing strategy.

     

    Why Partner with Tokyo Century Leasing Singapore?

    ✅ Trusted by multinational and local businesses for over 30 years
    ✅ Wide vehicle selection including hybrid and electric fleets
    ✅ Dedicated fleet consultants for customized solutions
    ✅ All-in leasing with maintenance, insurance, and road tax included

     

    “At TCL, leasing is more than access—it’s about aligning with your business roadmap.”

    Final Thoughts

    Both short-term and long-term leasing offer unique advantages. The best choice depends on your business model, mobility needs, and financial strategy. With a reliable partner like Tokyo Century Leasing Singapore, you’re equipped to make that decision with confidence.

    Ready to lease smarter?
    Explore our leasing plans now →

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