Baidu's autonomous ride-hailing service, Apollo Go, is launching a public trial in Hong Kong next week. The event will take place in Tung Chung from October 21 to November 3, with over 1,000 residents expected to participate in the test rides.
The test route spans 5.1 kilometers and takes approximately 15 minutes to complete. It runs from the Yat Tung Estate parking lot to the Sheraton Hong Kong Tung Chung Hotel. Each vehicle can carry up to two passengers, provided they are at least 8 years old or taller than 1.35 meters.
Safety remains a priority, with every vehicle staffed by a safety operator possessing an average of 10 years of driving experience and at least 100 hours of specialized training. Operators can pull over in emergencies, and the fleet is monitored remotely by a control center.
Baidu received an autonomous vehicle pilot license from the Hong Kong Transport Department in 2024. Testing has since expanded from Airport Island to North Lantau, Kowloon East, and Hong Kong Island South. In July, the company gained approval for driverless testing on Airport Island.
