HONG KONG SAR

In a significant step toward enhancing cross-border travel for Hong Kong vehicles, the Transport Department of the HKSAR Government has announced an increase in the daily application processing limit for "Northbound Travel for Hong Kong Vehicles," raising it from 400 to 500 applications per working day. This change reflects the soaring demand among residents wishing to travel to Mainland China, particularly in light of the rising popularity of electric vehicles (EVs).

To address the evolving needs of EV owners, the Automotive Platforms and Application Systems (APAS) R&D Centre is spearheading collaborative initiatives with professional institutions and industry stakeholders in Mainland China. One of the primary objectives is the standardization of EV charging adapter specifications, which is crucial for providing safe and efficient charging solutions for vehicles crossing the border.

A Dire Need for Standardized EV Chargers

As electric vehicles become commonplace in Hong Kong, one pressing concern for owners planning to travel to the Mainland is the compatibility of charging equipment. Many Hong Kong EVs utilize the Combined Charging System 2 (CCS2), while Mainland China employs the GB/T Charging Standard. This discrepancy leads to a need for additional charging adapters, and the market currently offers limited options, often at exorbitant prices ranging from several thousand to tens of thousands of Hong Kong dollars.

Unfortunately, specifications for charging adapters in Mainland China vary widely, posing potential risks for vehicle owners, as using an incompatible or slow-charging adapter could result in inadequate charging, or worse—safety hazards.

Raising Awareness on Charging Safety

APAS has consistently urged car owners to be cautious regarding the use of uncertified charging facilities, emphasizing the inherent dangers associated with high-power electric vehicle charging. Using non-compliant adapters may result in malfunctions or fire hazards, given the extreme voltages involved. To mitigate these risks, APAS is deeply engaged in research and development efforts dedicated to intelligent connected vehicles and new energy vehicle technologies.

Mr. Yonghai DU, the Chief Executive Officer of APAS, stated, “Recent advancements in infrastructure have made cross-border travel for Hong Kong vehicles increasingly convenient. The government's decision to increase the daily application capacity denotes the rising demand for this service. It is essential for EV drivers to be aware of and adapt to varying traffic regulations and charging interface standards across regions. By developing specialized adapters, we aim to ensure a seamless charging experience, all while contributing to the innovation and sustainability objectives of Hong Kong’s smart city initiative.”

Expert Insights Ahead of the Lunar New Year Rush

With the Lunar New Year approaching, many Hong Kong residents are expected to travel to Mainland China to celebrate. In this context, APAS has gathered insights from automotive and insurance experts to assist drivers navigating the new "Northbound Travel for Hong Kong Vehicles" policy.

Mr. Paul LAW, MH, Chairman of Olympic (Motor) Group, remarked, “The expansion of electric vehicles in the market has led to diverse charging connector and adapter options, making APAS’s lead in EV charging adapter development an exciting progression for the industry.”

Furthermore, Mr. Harley KWAN, President of the Hong Kong Insurance Intermediaries Association, highlighted the importance of knowing the differences in automotive insurance between Hong Kong and Mainland China. He emphasized the need for electric vehicle owners to ensure they have adequate coverage while traveling, noting that insurance systems vary significantly, with Hong Kong focusing on third-party liability compared to Mainland’s more standardized system.

Looking Ahead: A Standardized Future for Charging Adapters

In response to the increasing complexity around charging adapters, APAS intends to establish comprehensive guidelines aimed at bolstering the safety and ease of charging systems. This initiative will not only enhance the experience for car owners but also position Hong Kong as a leader in the thrust towards green and sustainable mobility solutions.

As APAS strives to refine the charging experience and bolster safety regulations for EV owners, they are set to play a pivotal role in enhancing cross-border travel for all, embracing innovation and setting the stage for a sustainable future.

Stay tuned as we continue to follow this exciting development and its implications for both the automotive industry and drivers eager to embark on their journeys!