Hong Kong Polytechnic University has entered a new era by launching its Research Centre for Electric Vehicles. This groundbreaking move not only shows Hong Kong's dedication to eco-friendly development but also aims to make the city a center for electric vehicle innovation in the Greater Bay Area and beyond. Sun Dong, Secretary for Innovation, Technology, and Industry, highlighted Hong Kong's strong research foundation as a key element for the growing new energy industry.
The newly established center is more than just an academic effort; it's a complete system meant to connect advanced electric vehicle research with practical industry uses. By focusing on electric vehicle technologies, smart transportation systems, and energy management, the center aims to lead improvements that could change how we think about transportation. Collaboration with industry partners is crucial, ensuring research findings move beyond academic journals to become successful commercial solutions for the electric vehicle market.
Besides its research goals, the center is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of innovative talent. Through offering advanced degree programs and professional training, it wants to prepare students and professionals with the knowledge and skills needed in the fast-changing electric vehicle sector. This educational mission aligns with Hong Kong's environmental goals, including ambitious targets to cut carbon emissions by 50% from 2005 levels by 2035 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. The center's comprehensive approach to education, research, and industry collaboration represents a strategic effort to create a sustainable future driven by clean energy and smart technologies.
While the Research Centre for Electric Vehicles aims to boost the global electric vehicle market, its impact is expected to go deep into the local community and across the Greater Bay Area. Plans for expansion and partnerships, especially with countries like Saudi Arabia, suggest a future where Hong Kong becomes a significant player in the international new energy sector. This initiative also marks a significant step towards self-sufficiency in automotive semiconductors, a crucial area where China has made substantial progress. With China holding an 80 percent share of the global market for new energy vehicles, the center's work is poised to contribute significantly to the nation's leadership in the electric vehicle industry.
