Eligible private cars from Hong Kong can now travel to Guangdong province through the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, thanks to the “Northbound Travel for Hong Kong Vehicles” policy. This policy, which started in July 2023, has gained popularity and has ushered in a new era of connectivity to build a “one-hour living circle” in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.
Since the policy’s introduction, over 60,000 private-vehicle licenses have been granted to applicants. During the first two days of the Labor Day holiday, more than 110,000 travelers and 25,200 vehicles underwent inspection at the boundary checkpoints of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Port. The presence of a convenient transportation option has given rise to emerging lifestyle trends and increased choices for leisure activities. It is reasonable to expect a substantial increase this year in the number of Hong Kong residents traveling to Guangdong in their own private cars.
A significant portion of individuals taking advantage of this policy opt to drive electric vehicles (EVs) from Hong Kong to Guangdong. It is projected that over half of the new cars in Hong Kong this year will be EVs. However, a pressing issue has arisen due to the differing charging standards for EVs in Hong Kong and Guangdong. While most EVs in Hong Kong follow the European International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) charging standard, the Chinese mainland adheres to the national Guobiao/Tuijian (GB/T) charging standard. As a result, there are variations in charging port shapes and communication systems. This necessitates the use of charging converters by Hong Kong EV owners when charging on the mainland. Standardizing EV charging between Hong Kong and Guangdong is of utmost importance, as the lack of standardization presents safety and regulatory risks for these travelers.
When Hong Kong residents drive their EVs in Guangdong, they often encounter difficulties and high costs when locating appropriate charging converters. This is due to the inconsistent charging speeds and power levels available at mainland charging stations. In response to this challenge, businesses are actively exploring innovative opportunities and solutions. One such solution is the introduction in Zhuhai of mobile charging stations that provide convenient on-the-go charging services. Additionally, there are fast-charging converters available for rent, enabling EV owners to access efficient charging options.
However, when it comes to using uncertified or noncompliant charging converters, EV drivers must exercise caution because of the potential risks they pose. This is especially true during fast charging, which involves high levels of power, voltage and current, often utilizing direct current (DC). Malfunctions or fire hazards can arise from using such converters. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to prioritize the selection of certified and safe charging converters. Additionally, a thorough understanding of the charging facilities, along with adherence to operational guidelines and safety precautions, is essential. By following these steps, individuals driving EVs from Hong Kong to Guangdong can enjoy their journey with greater peace of mind, ensuring both convenience and safety.
To guarantee safety and reliability, it is essential to establish comprehensive regulations and guidelines for charging cables and external charging converters that adhere to either the IEC or GB/T standards. Presently, Hong Kong lacks specific safety standards and regulatory mechanisms pertaining to charging converters. Consequently, there is a need to develop detailed regulations and requirements in this regard to ensure the safety and reliability of charging systems in Hong Kong.
To address these issues, the Automotive Platforms and Application Systems (APAS) R&D Centre, established in 2006 by the Innovation and Technology Commission of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government and hosted by the Hong Kong Productivity Council, is collaborating with relevant HKSAR government departments to create a framework for charging converters, with standard guidelines covering product specifications and usage processes, ensure safety, address the current regulatory gaps, and instilling confidence in both manufacturers and users.
APAS aims to conclude the development of these standards in the fourth quarter of this year. To achieve this, APAS facilitates collaboration among different stakeholders in Hong Kong and the mainland, including professional institutions, industries, academia, and research sectors. This collaboration offers valuable insights into market demands and contributes to the formulation of comprehensive safety guidelines. The objective is to ensure that both manufacturers and users have access to charging converters in the market that meet all safety requirements. Ultimately, these efforts enhance confidence and safety for EV owners.
Through the collaboration of various stakeholders, this initiative has the potential to address consumer concerns and transform challenges into opportunities. The objective of establishing standardized EV charging guidelines, enhancing regulations, and expanding the availability of charging facilities is to enrich the experience of Hong Kong travelers driving their EVs in Guangdong. This comprehensive approach will not only lay a solid foundation for a safer and more dependable EV charging infrastructure but also foster the advancement of sustainable transportation and smart mobility in the Greater Bay Area.
Innovation plus green and high-quality development are the key elements of the new quality productive forces that propel future development. Hong Kong’s and Guangdong’s efforts to standardize EV charging converters and establishguidelines for cross-boundary travelers can bring convenience to residents, create business opportunities in the Greater Bay Area, and hold global significance in promoting sustainable transportation.
The author is chief innovation officer of the Hong Kong Productivity Council and CEO of the Automotive Platforms and Application Systems R&D Centre.
The views do not necessarily reflect those of China Daily.
