HONG KONG, 13 January 2020 — Hong Kong’s current transport network relies heavily (almost solely) on fossil fuels – whether it is gasoline, diesel, LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) (97%) or electricity (3%) from its predominantly coal/natural gas power generation mix. As one of the most densely populated cities in the world, Hong Kong is missing the opportunity to take leadership in electrifying its road transport system. The transition to electric vehicles will benefit from a stable and resilient electricity grid network, a compact city where public charging facilities are easily accessible and an affluent society where car ownership is inevitable and thus can attract investment in relevant infrastructures, all of which are attributes which Hong Kong possesses. While Hong Kong has its unique challenges in the transition to electric vehicles, for example a predominantly double-decker bus system, these challenges are not insurmountable when they are met with a clear policy vision, strong government leadership and corresponding investment.

Civic Exchange acknowledges the Government’s effort in promoting the use of electric vehicles to reduce roadside air and noise pollution; however, our city can benefit from a more holistic and strategic approach towards a sustainable land transport system.