The permission for mainland cars under the "southbound travel" scheme to use darker window tints than local vehicles has prompted calls to update Hong Kong's "outdated" regulations.
Under the scheme allowing 100 mainland cars daily into urban Hong Kong, many have darker side windows. The Transport Department said while windscreens must meet requirements, the rule that front side windows have at least 70 percent light transmittance does not apply to these temporarily staying vehicles. Local rules require 70 percent for front windows and at least 44 percent for rear side and rear windows.
Hong Kong, China Automobile Association honorary life president Ringo Lee Yiu-pui said many places, including the mainland, Japan, South Korea and some European nations, allow darker tints for better shading and heat insulation, which saves energy. He urged the government to follow international practice, suggesting first relaxing rules for windows behind the B-pillar and rear windows.
Election Committee lawmaker Adrian Ho King-hong said the regulations are seriously outdated and should be updated for energy saving and comfort, pledging to follow up in the next legislative term.
Lee noted many right-hand drive parallel-import cars arrive with factory-fitted tints that dealers must replace, creating waste. He said while darker glass might affect rearview mirror visibility, widespread electronic mirrors could mitigate safety concerns.
