The Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute (ASTRI) and a driverless vehicle company, established by a Chinese multinational technology corporation, have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaboratively advance the implementation of autonomous driving and C-V2X technology in various scenarios within Hong Kong. The partnership also aims to explore opportunities for cooperation in developing High-Definition Maps (HD Maps), thereby enhancing Hong Kong’s smart mobility ecosystem.
The Vice President of Communication Technologies at ASTRI and the Head of Business Development at the driverless vehicle company signed the agreement. The signing was witnessed by the Chief Operating Officer of ASTRI and the Head of the international arm of the company.
As part of this collaboration, the two parties will extend the implementation of C-V2X technology to additional scenarios. The driverless vehicle company will provide support to ASTRI in the research and development of roadside infrastructure. Specifically, the company will deploy its Operating System of Intelligent Road Side (Smart Road Air OS) at the Sha Tin Smart Mobility Public Testing Route, aiding ASTRI in its endeavours.
This partnership capitalises on the tech company’s expertise in developing C-V2X infrastructure, autonomous driving software, and intelligent transportation operations, along with ASTRI’s strong research and development capabilities in 5G communication technology, AI, smart mobility, C-V2X technology, and road-testing experience. By merging these strengths, the collaboration aims to expedite the deployment of C-V2X technology across various scenarios in Hong Kong.
To address the distinctive urban environment of Hong Kong, both parties will additionally explore opportunities for cooperation in the development of High-Definition Maps (HD Maps). These efforts will focus on enhancing the technology and usability of HD maps through experimental projects. By collaborating on this aspect, the aim is to create more accurate and comprehensive mapping solutions that cater to the specific needs of Hong Kong’s urban landscape.
ASTRI has been actively involved in the research and development of C-V2X technology since 2015. With support from the Smart Transportation Fund of the Transport Department, ASTRI launched one of the world’s largest C-V2X public road tests in Hong Kong in 2021. This extensive test covered a 14km route from Hong Kong Science Park to Sha Tin town centre, allowing for the study and testing of C-V2X technology in various real-world scenarios on Hong Kong’s roads. The focus was not only on the technology itself but also on the necessary network and infrastructure.
Currently, the second phase of C-V2X public road tests is underway. The primary objective is to enhance road and pedestrian safety while improving traffic efficiency. This is achieved through the efficient, accurate, and rapid sharing of information leveraging one of ASTRI’s Hero Technologies: a high-speed, reliable, and low-latency 5G network solution.
In addition, the establishment of the “Smart Mobility (C-V2X) Technology Alliance” in April 2023 further enhances Hong Kong’s smart mobility ecosystem. This alliance promotes collaboration among the government, industry, academia, and research institutions, fostering cooperation on smart mobility and related technologies. The ultimate goal is to accelerate the implementation of C-V2X technology and infrastructure in Hong Kong, positioning the city as a model for smart cities.
Meanwhile, the company serves as a pilot unit for the state’s transportation sector. Its intelligent transportation business, along with its affiliated companies, is dedicated to spearheading the modernization of China’s intelligent transportation systems.
Their mission is to develop a world-class, integrated transportation system that aligns with the high-quality standards of being safe, convenient, efficient, green, and economical. Their efforts are in line with the overarching goal of achieving a transportation system that prioritizes people’s satisfaction, provides robust protection, and sets a global benchmark in terms of excellence.
The Association for Operating Systems of Intelligent Road Side was established in Beijing on 17 May 2023. This association introduced the Operating System of Intelligent Road Side (Smart Road Air OS 1.0) to the industry. The company, as one of the key technology contributors, will continue to adhere to the guiding principle of “Open Capabilities, Shared Resources, Accelerating Innovations, Sustainable Success.”
The company aims to foster the development of the smart transportation industry through an efficient, innovative, and mutually beneficial open-source association. By actively participating in this association, the company seeks to promote collaboration, encourage the sharing of resources and capabilities, and drive accelerated innovation within the smart transportation sector.
