Beginning at the end of this month, residents of Fairview Park will have the opportunity to experience a new era of transportation with the trial run of two autonomous shuttle light buses. The pilot program, set to last approximately seven months, will operate along a 2.5-kilometer loop road within the housing estates.
The shuttles, designed by the Automotive Platforms & Application Systems R&D Centre, come in two configurations — one with 12 seats and another with 8 seats, the latter including accommodations for wheelchair users. Both vehicles are equipped with cutting-edge technology, including an advanced autonomous driving system and a comprehensive AI framework that eliminates the need for human drivers.
Cutting-Edge Technology
Each bus is outfitted with 15 radars and recognition cameras, continually collecting real-time data about their surroundings. This information, combined with high-definition electronic maps and sophisticated image processing, allows the AI to analyze road conditions and achieve precise positioning. Additionally, the integration of 5G technology will enable smart lampposts to monitor vehicle conditions in real time.
Lawrence Cheung, CEO of the Automotive Platforms & Application Systems R&D Centre, emphasized the suitability of Fairview Park for this trial. “The roads are wide and feature numerous speed bumps, which naturally slows down traffic,” he noted. Prior to the trial, the autonomous system underwent extensive testing and adjustments over six to seven months to ensure a smooth and comfortable ride, particularly when navigating speed bumps and bus stops.
Safety First
Safety remains a top priority as the Transport Department meticulously reviewed all submitted materials, including safety reports from similar vehicles tested on the Mainland. Janet Lam, Chief Electrical & Mechanical Engineer (Bus Safety) at the Transport Department, stressed the importance of stringent oversight during the trial. “We limit testing speeds and routes, and verify the qualifications of backup operators, all under the Transport Department’s supervision,” she stated.
A Broader Vision
The Fairview Park initiative is part of a larger push towards autonomous vehicle technology in Hong Kong. Currently, eight autonomous vehicles are being tested throughout the city, all achieving Level 4 on the international autonomous driving scale. This level of advancement aligns with standards observed in Mainland China and globally.
In March, the Hong Kong government introduced new legislation to facilitate the testing and utilization of autonomous vehicles, allowing them to be registered and licensed under existing regulations. This legislative framework is expected to enhance the flexibility and scope of autonomous vehicle operations, including passenger transport services.
As Yuen Long prepares for this innovative transportation trial, the integration of autonomous technology promises not only to reshape local transit but also to set a precedent for advancements in urban mobility across the region.
