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The Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute (ASTRI) has entered into a significant collaboration through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with a major public transportation operator in Hong Kong. This partnership focuses on research and development projects related to autonomous driving and Cellular Vehicle-to-Everything (C-V2X) technology.
The collaboration aims to conduct live road tests on the route between Hong Kong Science Park and the University MTR Station, as well as within the Kai Tak Development Area. The ultimate goal is to establish a cost-effective and world-leading smart mobility solution that will further enhance Hong Kong’s well-regarded public transportation system.
This inaugural collaboration is designed to leverage ASTRI’s advanced technological capabilities in intelligent mobility, combined with the extensive experience of the transportation operator in developing and managing public transportation systems. The partnership seeks to create a new model for transportation in Hong Kong, with the transportation operator supporting two ASTRI projects that have already received funding approval from the HKSAR Government’s Smart Traffic Fund. Moreover, both entities are exploring additional intelligent mobility projects that could accelerate the digitalisation of public transportation operations and broaden the application of artificial intelligence in this sector.
One of the key initiatives in this collaboration is the development of a Dedicated Line Connected Autonomous Bus. This project involves a 19-seat ‘connected’ autonomous bus that will operate between the Hong Kong Science Park and the University MTR Station. The trial aims to assess the viability of connected autonomous buses in complex public road environments, which include roundabouts and public transport interchanges. The trial, expected to begin in 2025, will include pre-registered passengers, with operational support provided by the transportation operator. This initiative represents a significant step forward in the exploration of autonomous bus technologies in real-world conditions.
Another crucial project under this collaboration is the development of Smart Roadside Infrastructure to Enhance Public Transport Capability in Hong Kong. Scheduled to commence on 1 September 2024, this project will explore the application of C-V2X technology in public bus services within the Kai Tak Development Area. The transportation operator, as the primary bus operator in the district, runs several public bus routes that traverse the Kai Tak runway area. For the first time, ASTRI will interface with the operator’s on-bus systems and install C-V2X equipment on double-deckers. This technology will connect with smart roadside units within the area, enabling real-time communication about road conditions and traffic light information. The system will provide real-time alerts to bus captains, thereby enhancing driving safety and operational efficiency.
Both of these projects are expected to generate valuable research and development data, which will be instrumental in further enhancing the precision and reliability of the C-V2X system. Additionally, these efforts will contribute to the advancement of autonomous bus technologies across various real-life scenarios, playing a key role in the broader innovation of smart mobility and public transportation in Hong Kong.
The CEO of ASTRI highlighted the significance of this partnership, noting that it marks a pivotal step in Hong Kong’s journey towards smarter, safer, and more efficient public transportation. He emphasised that by combining ASTRI’s technological expertise with the operational experience of the transportation operator, the collaboration is well-positioned to develop intelligent solutions for smart mobility that could potentially be adopted globally.
The Managing Director of the transportation operator underscored the impact of this partnership, affirming the company’s commitment to leading in smart transportation and new energy transformation. He noted that following the introduction of hydrogen and electric buses, as well as the implementation of a smart driving system across the entire fleet to improve safety and customer experience, the collaboration with ASTRI represents a further step towards enhancing bus services in Hong Kong. This collaboration not only explores but also sets the future path for public transportation in the city, contributing to the ongoing development of Hong Kong as a smart city with technologies and expertise that have the potential for international export.
