EHang Holdings Limited (Nasdaq: EH) (“EHang” or the “Company”), a global leader in Urban Air Mobility (UAM) technology, announced that it has signed a purchase and cooperation agreement with Kwoon Chung Smart Mobility Limited (“Kwoon Chung Smart Mobility”), a subsidiary of Kwoon Chung Bus Holdings Limited (0306.HK), the largest non-franchised public bus operator in Hong Kong on July 19, 2024. The agreement aims to promote and operate EH216-S autonomous aerial vehicles in Hong Kong, Macau, and the cities of Xiangyang and Shiyan in Hubei Province, China. Under the agreement, Kwoon Chung Smart Mobility plans to purchase a total of 30 EH216-S units from EHang.
Kwoon Chung Bus Holdings is one of the largest companies in Hong Kong’s transportation industry, primarily offering passenger transport services between mainland China and Hong Kong, as well as local transport services in Hong Kong. The company has also expanded its business to the tourism sector, with tourism resources in Lantau Island, Hong Kong, and Bipenggou, Sichuan. Kwoon Chung Smart Mobility, a subsidiary focused on innovative mobility solutions, intends to advise the Hong Kong SAR government on the upcoming low-altitude economy development blueprint and relevant regulations. The two parties will collaborate to host flight activities for the EH216-S in Hong Kong, pioneering the implementation of autonomous eVTOL urban air mobility in the region.
Currently, the Hong Kong SAR government is actively integrating into the national low-altitude economic development strategy. The Chief Executive of the Hong Kong SAR, John Lee Ka-chiu, stated in the Legislative Council that the SAR government is enhancing the development of new productivity, leveraging Hong Kong’s foundational research and international advantages to drive the growth of new productivity fields, including the low-altitude economy. Professor Sun Dong, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, indicated that Hong Kong has a solid technical foundation for eVTOL technology. The government will continue to closely monitor the evolution of eVTOL technology and, based on Hong Kong’s specific circumstances, laws and regulations, market demand, and commercial considerations of potential service operators, make timely planning and strategic deployments suitable for Hong Kong, including supporting projects that can enrich tourists’ travel experiences.
In conclusion, the collaboration between EHang and Kwoon Chung Smart Mobility marks a significant milestone for Hong Kong’s low-altitude economy. By introducing the EH216-S autonomous aerial vehicles, this partnership will not only enhance urban transportation efficiency and provide innovative tourism experiences but also stimulate economic growth and create new job opportunities. Additionally, it will pave the way for the development of comprehensive policies and regulations that support the sustainable integration of eVTOL technology into the city’s infrastructure. As Hong Kong continues to align with national strategies for low-altitude economy development, this collaboration stands as a testament to the city’s commitment to embracing cutting-edge technologies and fostering an environment of innovation and progress.
References:
https://www.ehang.com/news/1107.html
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