Hong Kong advances autonomous vehicle trials, allowing speeds up to 50 km/h

Hong Kong’s autonomous vehicle trials have progressed smoothly, with the permitted speed of vehicles increased to 50 kilometers per hour, according to the Transport Department (TD).

Since 2024, the TD has issued six pilot licenses for autonomous vehicles, allowing 62 autonomous private cars and minibuses to conduct tests in multiple areas.

Electrical & Mechanical Engineer (Autonomous Vehicle) Ken Tang Kin-leung said that among the trials, the tests in North Lantau have achieved significant technological progress in four key areas.

These achievements include scaling from a single vehicle to 10 vehicles operating simultaneously, conducting designated passenger-carrying trials, expanding the test area; and achieving higher speeds.

"Trial routes for autonomous vehicles have steadily expanded, progressing beyond Airport Island to more complex highways and diverse communities,” he said.

Vehicle speeds have gradually increased up to 50 km/h as the autonomous driving system improves, in accordance with posted speed limits on relevant test sections.

This year, the TD will progressively implement driverless operation of autonomous vehicles using only remote backup operators.

Meanwhile, the first company granted a license began conducting cross-district tests in Kwun Tong and Kowloon City last month, with a driver remaining onboard as a backup operator who only takes control when necessary.

The company stated that Hong Kong has complex and dynamic road conditions, and the system has been optimized to comply with local traffic rules.

It further mentioned that the system requires fine-tuning for driving actions to ensure vehicles handle right-hand driving accurately and adapt to local road features, including conventional and spiral roundabouts under Hong Kong’s strict traffic regulations.