HK probes mainland driver for using unauthorized autopilot on first day of cross-border scheme

Hong Kong authorities are investigating a mainland Chinese driver who activated an unapproved intelligent driving system in his XPeng P7 electric car while driving in the territory on the very first day of the new Southbound Travel for Guangdong Vehicles cross-border vehicle program.

The scheme, launched on December 23, allows eligible Guangdong-registered vehicles to enter Hong Kong, aiming to facilitate travel for Greater Bay Area residents.

However, a video circulating widely on the Chinese social platform Xiaohongshu showed the driver enabling the car's AI-assisted driving function on Chek Lap Kok Road near the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge port.

In the footage, the driver initially held the steering wheel with one hand before completely removing both hands, allowing the system to handle lane changes and navigation even after losing network connection.

The driver expressed surprise that the feature continued working despite XPeng officially stating that its advanced intelligent driving functions are not supported in Hong Kong, Macao, or Taiwan.

The Transport Department confirmed it is treating the incident seriously and will issue a warning letter to the registered driver, demanding an explanation.

If the response is unsatisfactory, the department may permanently suspend the driver's eligibility to book future trips under the scheme.

Officials emphasized that all participating drivers received clear guidelines prohibiting the use of unapproved integrated advanced driving assistance systems on Hong Kong roads due to differences in local laws and road conditions.

While basic features like cruise control and automated parking are permitted, more comprehensive systems that independently process traffic information are banned to prevent accidents.

Legal experts warn that hands-off driving or using unrecognized autonomous systems could constitute dangerous driving or careless driving under Hong Kong's Road Traffic Ordinance, with dangerous driving carrying potential penalties of up to a HK$25,000 fine and three years in prison.