Embracing autonomous vehicles can revolutionise Hong Kong transport
Embracing autonomous vehicles can revolutionise Hong Kong transport
Autonomous vehicles (AVs) are poised to transform the way we live, work and travel. Cities such as Beijing and San Francisco are pushing the boundaries of driverless technology. Although Hong Kong was a late starter in AV testing, it has made significant strides since the enactment of the Road Traffic (Autonomous Vehicles) Regulation and its associated Code of Practice in 2024.
These regulations have enabled the Transport Department to swiftly approve testing applications. Baidu’s Apollo Go secured a pilot licence last year and most recently expanded its trials to Tung Chung.
This lays a foundation for Hong Kong to encourage the industry to transform testing data into standardised, exportable products, enhance market influence, upgrade the traditional automotive sector and position itself as a global leader in AV data transfer technology research and development.
AV technology is advancing at an unprecedented pace. Mainland China is leading the way, with some projections suggesting its AV market could reach about US$170.6 billion by 2033. Apollo Go, for example, has made significant progress in major cities such as Beijing, where around 3,000 sq km is scheduled to be open for testing, and Wuhan, where nearly 500 of its driverless vehicles operate.
Against such progress, Hong Kong’s historically cautious approach could result in it missing out on the economic and technological benefits of AVs. The new legislation will enable Hong Kong to address future smart city needs proactively.
AVs offer Hong Kong a transformative vision for transport. With an ageing workforce in the taxi and logistics sectors, AVs could provide reliable, round-the-clock services, easing labour shortages while boosting efficiency. Autonomous ride-hailing systems and logistics networks could reduce congestion, improve last-mile connectivity and lower insurance and other operational costs, creating a transport system that is both effective and environmentally sustainable.
Nurturing an AV industry is not easy. One of the challenges is the variation in communication protocols, as data from tests in different cities can be incompatible, leading to high costs and slow progress. Developing universal data transfer technologies and standardised protocols would accelerate global AV progress.
Hong Kong’s complex driving environment offers a unique opportunity to transform its distinctive driving data into exportable communication standards for global carmakers. The city is well positioned to drive cross-border innovation, integrating left- and right-hand driving data to enhance AV technologies for international markets, thereby establishing itself as a leading hub for data transfer research and development.
Hong Kong is exploring ambitious testing for AV technology. For example, Apollo Go has focused its testing on North Lantau and Tung Chung, safely covering more than 14,000 kilometres, demonstrating highly automated, fully self-driving capabilities in specific situations such as closed areas or fixed routes.
The Airport Authority is developing an autonomous transport system that is set to launch by the end of this year. It will initially carry 500 passengers per hour between the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge port and nearby facilities. Long-term plans include extending the system to Tung Chung.
Similarly, the Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute’s (ASTRI) pilot programme for autonomous buses in the West Kowloon Cultural District highlights the potential for AVs to transform public transport.
Next, we should expand testing to cross-border ports, testing AVs for border crossings, and aligning with the Southbound Travel for Guangdong Vehicles policy to extend testing into Hong Kong’s urban areas.
The city should also upgrade its infrastructure in preparation. The city’s current transport systems, designed for human drivers, need modernisation to support autonomous navigation. Clear and consistent road markings, intelligent traffic signals and real-time digital communication networks are vital for creating an AV-friendly environment.
Equally important is regulatory clarity. The new regulation provides a framework for testing and pilot projects, outlining requirements and responsibilities for pilot proprietors and in-vehicle or remote backup operators. However, these regulations are designed for scenarios where human intervention might still be needed.
As AVs progress towards operating without the need for humans, regulations must evolve to clearly define accountability, whether it rests with the manufacturer, software developer or operator. Resolving these questions is essential for public trust and industry confidence. The government must ensure its regulatory framework not only addresses safety concerns but is flexible enough to keep pace with rapid technological advances.
Engaging the public is also crucial for the successful adoption of AV technology. Although a survey by City University of Hong Kong showed that nearly half of respondents were willing to use AVs, concerns about safety and reliability persist. Transparent communication and public outreach are crucial for dispelling misconceptions and fostering trust. Expanding trials to include urban areas would showcase the reliability of AVs and foster greater public trust.
Nevertheless, it is essential to proceed cautiously. Deploying AVs without proper preparation risks eroding public trust and compromising safety. A phased approach, beginning with controlled environments and geofenced zones, will enable iterative improvements while minimising risks. The government should learn from early trials, refine technical standards and share research findings with industry stakeholders to ensure a safe and successful roll-out.
AVs are more than just a technological breakthrough; they can spark a reimagining of urban mobility. By incorporating AVs into a broader vision for sustainable development, Hong Kong has the potential to create a transport system that is efficient, resilient and environmentally responsible.
Ultimately, AVs present a transformative opportunity for Hong Kong. With investments in infrastructure, clear regulations, public engagement and cross-border collaboration, the city can establish itself as a leader in next-generation mobility. Hong Kong must act boldly and decisively to secure its role in the global AV revolution.
Autonomous vehicles (AVs) are poised to transform the way we live, work and travel. Cities such as Beijing and San Francisco are pushing the boundaries of driverless technology. Although Hong Kong was a late starter in AV testing, it has made significant strides since the enactment of the Road Traffic (Autonomous Vehicles) Regulation and its associated Code of Practice in 2024.
These regulations have enabled the Transport Department to swiftly approve testing applications. Baidu’s Apollo Go secured a pilot licence last year and most recently expanded its trials to Tung Chung.
This lays a foundation for Hong Kong to encourage the industry to transform testing data into standardised, exportable products, enhance market influence, upgrade the traditional automotive sector and position itself as a global leader in AV data transfer technology research and development.
AV technology is advancing at an unprecedented pace. Mainland China is leading the way, with some projections suggesting its AV market could reach about US$170.6 billion by 2033. Apollo Go, for example, has made significant progress in major cities such as Beijing, where around 3,000 sq km is scheduled to be open for testing, and Wuhan, where nearly 500 of its driverless vehicles operate.
Against such progress, Hong Kong’s historically cautious approach could result in it missing out on the economic and technological benefits of AVs. The new legislation will enable Hong Kong to address future smart city needs proactively.
AVs offer Hong Kong a transformative vision for transport. With an ageing workforce in the taxi and logistics sectors, AVs could provide reliable, round-the-clock services, easing labour shortages while boosting efficiency. Autonomous ride-hailing systems and logistics networks could reduce congestion, improve last-mile connectivity and lower insurance and other operational costs, creating a transport system that is both effective and environmentally sustainable.
Nurturing an AV industry is not easy. One of the challenges is the variation in communication protocols, as data from tests in different cities can be incompatible, leading to high costs and slow progress. Developing universal data transfer technologies and standardised protocols would accelerate global AV progress.
Hong Kong’s complex driving environment offers a unique opportunity to transform its distinctive driving data into exportable communication standards for global carmakers. The city is well positioned to drive cross-border innovation, integrating left- and right-hand driving data to enhance AV technologies for international markets, thereby establishing itself as a leading hub for data transfer research and development.
Hong Kong is exploring ambitious testing for AV technology. For example, Apollo Go has focused its testing on North Lantau and Tung Chung, safely covering more than 14,000 kilometres, demonstrating highly automated, fully self-driving capabilities in specific situations such as closed areas or fixed routes.
The Airport Authority is developing an autonomous transport system that is set to launch by the end of this year. It will initially carry 500 passengers per hour between the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge port and nearby facilities. Long-term plans include extending the system to Tung Chung.
Similarly, the Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute’s (ASTRI) pilot programme for autonomous buses in the West Kowloon Cultural District highlights the potential for AVs to transform public transport.
Next, we should expand testing to cross-border ports, testing AVs for border crossings, and aligning with the Southbound Travel for Guangdong Vehicles policy to extend testing into Hong Kong’s urban areas.
The city should also upgrade its infrastructure in preparation. The city’s current transport systems, designed for human drivers, need modernisation to support autonomous navigation. Clear and consistent road markings, intelligent traffic signals and real-time digital communication networks are vital for creating an AV-friendly environment.
Equally important is regulatory clarity. The new regulation provides a framework for testing and pilot projects, outlining requirements and responsibilities for pilot proprietors and in-vehicle or remote backup operators. However, these regulations are designed for scenarios where human intervention might still be needed.
As AVs progress towards operating without the need for humans, regulations must evolve to clearly define accountability, whether it rests with the manufacturer, software developer or operator. Resolving these questions is essential for public trust and industry confidence. The government must ensure its regulatory framework not only addresses safety concerns but is flexible enough to keep pace with rapid technological advances.
Engaging the public is also crucial for the successful adoption of AV technology. Although a survey by City University of Hong Kong showed that nearly half of respondents were willing to use AVs, concerns about safety and reliability persist. Transparent communication and public outreach are crucial for dispelling misconceptions and fostering trust. Expanding trials to include urban areas would showcase the reliability of AVs and foster greater public trust.
Nevertheless, it is essential to proceed cautiously. Deploying AVs without proper preparation risks eroding public trust and compromising safety. A phased approach, beginning with controlled environments and geofenced zones, will enable iterative improvements while minimising risks. The government should learn from early trials, refine technical standards and share research findings with industry stakeholders to ensure a safe and successful roll-out.
AVs are more than just a technological breakthrough; they can spark a reimagining of urban mobility. By incorporating AVs into a broader vision for sustainable development, Hong Kong has the potential to create a transport system that is efficient, resilient and environmentally responsible.
Ultimately, AVs present a transformative opportunity for Hong Kong. With investments in infrastructure, clear regulations, public engagement and cross-border collaboration, the city can establish itself as a leader in next-generation mobility. Hong Kong must act boldly and decisively to secure its role in the global AV revolution.
