Hutchison Port Holdings Trust (HPH Trust) has unveiled a fleet of zero-emission autonomous trucks in Hong Kong.
The AI-powered innovation is designed for efficient container transportation at all terminals, and supports the city’s objectives of smarter and greener port terminal operations.
The launch ceremony was officiated by Liu Chun San, undersecretary for transport and logistics in the HKSAR government and Ivor Chow, CEO of HPH Trust and managing director of Hongkong International Terminals (HIT).
The autonomous truck (AT) fleet vehicles, designed without a driver’s cab, can operate alongside conventional vehicles in a mixed-traffic mode called ‘true’. Powered by AI-driven algorithms, binocular cameras, advanced sensors and precise positioning systems, The ATs reportedly delivers 24/7 all-weather performance, with built-in obstacle detection and emergency response systems.
San said, “This innovative initiative is a proactive response to the government’s vision for promoting green and smart shipping, setting a good example for promoting the sustainable development and technological advancement of the Hong Kong Port.”
Chow said, “We are not just launching a fleet of trucks; we are launching a new generation of port technology. These AI-powered, 5G-connected autonomous trucks are designed to operate seamlessly alongside conventional vehicles.
“This initiative advances the smart transformation of the logistics industry in line with the National 15th Five-Year Plan and aligns with the HKSAR government’s Green Port Development policies.”
Currently, six units of ATs are in operation at Terminal 4. HPH Trust plans to expand the fleet and enhance its green technology portfolio to advance sustainability across terminal operations. This will include the introduction of e-trucks, e-reach stackers and associated battery swapping stations.
In related news, autonomous trucking to account for US$70bn of US GDP by 2035, industry report finds