Hong Kong's Secretary for Environment & Ecology, Tse Chin-wan, expressed confidence today (Dec. 11) in achieving the city's goal of zero vehicle emissions by 2050. Speaking on a radio program, Tse assured that sufficient charging stations will be in place to support the transition to electric buses and taxis, with plans to further enhance infrastructure.
The government is set to subsidize the purchase of 600 electric buses and 3,000 electric taxis as part of its push to promote electric vehicles (EVs). Tse noted that technological advancements have significantly reduced the cost of EVs, with the price gap between electric double-decker buses and traditional ones dropping from over HK$2 million to around HK$1 million.
To support this transition, the government will subsidize 25% of the additional costs for electric buses. Additionally, each electric taxi purchase will receive a HK$45,000 subsidy.
Regarding charging infrastructure, Tse emphasized that the city already has 1,500 high-speed chargers (100 kW or above) for taxis, ensuring no shortage. The government is also encouraging petrol stations to install charging facilities or convert to charging-only stations. Existing contracts with petrol stations will include provisions for offering discounts to taxis.
Tse estimates that around 300 new chargers will be installed at petrol stations, while bus depots and terminals will also add chargers, some of which will be available for taxi use during the day. Taxi ranks will also be equipped with charging facilities, adding an estimated 500 more chargers, further enhancing convenience and accessibility.
On charging speed, Tse noted that advancements in charging technology over the past five years have been significant. He projected that within the next five years, EVs could achieve full charging in as little as five minutes.
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