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The Automotive Platforms and Application Systems R&D Centre (APAS) has unveiled the “5G-enabled Autonomous People Mover Service in a Residential Park” pilot programme, marking a significant step in the integration of autonomous vehicle technology into daily life. After approximately two years of planning and technological development, including the creation of high-definition maps, refinement of AI algorithms, simulation testing, and safety evaluations, the initiative is set to begin field tests on August 26, 2024, at Fairview Park.
The project, funded by the HKSAR Government’s Smart Traffic Fund, has received support from various stakeholders, including a local bus operator, a technology distribution firm, and the property management and advisory committee of Fairview Park. It aims to provide valuable insights into the development and adoption of autonomous right-hand drive vehicles in public transportation.
The pilot will deploy two autonomous shuttle light buses with capacities of 12 and 8 passengers, respectively. The 8-seater model features a designated space for wheelchair users. Both vehicles are equipped with advanced sensors that monitor seat belt usage in real-time, enhancing passenger safety.
The low-floor design of these shuttles improves accessibility for senior citizens and wheelchair users and ensures children’s safety during boarding and alighting. Additionally, third-party insurance has been secured to protect passengers during the trial period. APAS will conduct monthly inspections of the vehicles and their autonomous driving systems, collecting data to refine and enhance the service.
Since 2018, APAS has been leading innovation in autonomous driving, collaborating with industry, academia, and technology institutions to transition R&D breakthroughs into practical applications. The launch of this pilot at Fairview Park, supported by key industry players, highlights ongoing collaboration and aims to develop local expertise and experience, facilitating the wider adoption of autonomous driving technologies in public transportation.
This initiative aligns with the “Hong Kong Smart City Blueprint 2.0,” contributing to the swift implementation of autonomous vehicle technology and promoting cooperation between the government, industry, academia, and research sectors to accelerate relevant R&D efforts. The ultimate goal is to enhance Hong Kong’s livability and sustainability.
Fairview Park, with its wide, well-structured main carriageways and low-density environment, provides an ideal setting for testing autonomous driving technologies. The pilot involves two autonomous shuttle light buses equipped with Cellular-Vehicle-to-Everything (CV2X) technology, operating through the southeastern and northwestern sections of the estate.
These shuttles will offer an additional transportation option for residents, complementing existing estate shuttle bus routes. During the two-month trial, the autonomous shuttles will run on weekdays from 9 AM to 6 PM, excluding public holidays, covering a circular route of approximately 2.5 kilometres with seven designated stops within the estate.
The shuttles are equipped with sensors, 5G receivers, and AI technologies, enabling functions such as high-definition digital mapping, object detection, route planning, and vehicle dynamic control (VDC). The integration of CV2X technology, along with cameras, LIDAR, and GPS systems, enhances the shuttles’ localisation accuracy. These vehicles are designed to detect and respond to surrounding vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, and other potential obstacles, ensuring safe and smooth operation.
The vehicles will adhere to a speed limit of 30 km/h as stipulated by the approved Movement Permit for a Vehicle. To ensure safety, a trained driver will be on board each vehicle to manually override the system in emergencies. These drivers hold valid driving licenses and have undergone comprehensive training provided by the bus operator. Additionally, a safety officer will be stationed at the bus terminus during service hours to monitor real-time driving data via the 5G network and assist in managing emergencies.
Launched in August 2022, this programme is coordinated by APAS and supported by the Government’s Smart Transport Fund. It represents a significant effort to advance autonomous vehicle technology and integrate it into the urban landscape.
