The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Transport Department announced on August 11 that it has approved, under the Road Traffic (Autonomous Vehicles) Regulation, a test project for autonomous vehicles (automated cars) linking the High Speed Rail Hong Kong West Kowloon Station and the Airport Express Kowloon Station.

According to details, the project involves four private cars operated by autonomous driving technology. During the testing phase, a backup operator will be stationed in the vehicle at all times, capable of taking control when necessary.

A spokesperson for the Transport Department stated that the government has been actively and methodically promoting the development of autonomous vehicles through a multi-pronged approach encompassing policy support, legal coordination, and financial subsidies. This project aims to demonstrate the safety, stability, and operational feasibility of autonomous vehicle technology in high-traffic and complex dynamic environments.

The spokesperson further noted that once autonomous vehicles are deployed in regular operations, they will establish a seamless, self-driving shuttle service between the High Speed Rail Hong Kong West Kowloon Station and the Airport Express Kowloon Station. This will provide travelers with a convenient option, enhancing their overall travel experience and attracting more passengers to use the High Speed Rail and Hong Kong International Airport.

In November 2024, Baidu's "Apollo Go" ("萝卜快跑") received the first autonomous vehicle pilot license issued by the Hong Kong Transport Department, authorizing the testing of 10 autonomous vehicles on North Lantau Island.