Residents in Fairview Park, Yuen Long, will soon have the opportunity to test out driverless buses in their community. These electric light buses may appear ordinary at first glance, but they are actually equipped with an artificial intelligence system that allows them to operate autonomously without the need for a human driver.
The buses are fitted with 15 radars and recognition cameras that collect real-time data about the surrounding environment. This data is then analyzed by the AI system to ensure safe and efficient driving. Additionally, 5G technology is utilized to monitor the buses’ condition in real time, providing an extra layer of safety and oversight.
Developed and tested over the course of two years by the Automotive Platforms & Application Systems R&D Centre, the autonomous driving system is set to undergo a trial run at Fairview Park for approximately seven months. The route will cover a 2.5km loop road within the housing estates, offering residents a firsthand experience of this innovative technology.
Lawrence Cheung, CEO of the R&D Centre, highlighted the suitability of Fairview Park for testing autonomous vehicles due to its wide roads and ample speed bumps, ensuring a controlled and safe environment for the trials. The system has been fine-tuned to navigate speed bumps smoothly and park accurately at bus stops, providing a comfortable experience for passengers.
Before the trial run, the buses underwent thorough testing and adjustments to ensure their safety and efficiency on the roads. The Transport Department reviewed the vehicles’ specifications and conducted inspections to verify their readiness for the trial run.
With the implementation of new legislation in March to regulate autonomous vehicles, the Government aims to provide more flexibility for industry trials and utilization of this cutting-edge technology. The autonomous buses in Yuen Long have already reached Level 4 of international standards for autonomous driving, matching the capabilities of similar vehicles on the Mainland and worldwide.
As the trial run commences, residents in Fairview Park will have the opportunity to witness firsthand the future of public transportation. Through continuous testing and advancements in autonomous driving technology, these driverless buses could revolutionize the way communities approach public transportation in the years to come.
