18th November 2024, Kathmandu
The electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) industry is rapidly reshaping urban air mobility, and Hong Kong is poised to become a global leader in this transformative field.
The Rise of eVTOL Technology in Hong Kong
Through strategic initiatives and partnerships, the city is dedicated to promoting eVTOL technology and establishing a thriving low-altitude economy, particularly within the Greater Bay Area of China.
Hong Kong eVTOL Industry Association: Driving Innovation
To support the development of the low-altitude economy, the Centre for Intelligent Multidimensional Data Analysis (CIMDA) at the City University of Hong Kong (CityU), part of the AIR@InnoHK Cluster, has partnered with FDB Group to launch the Hong Kong eVTOL Industry Association. This non-profit organization is a landmark effort aimed at advancing research and development (R&D) in eVTOL technology while fostering business growth in Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area.
Mission and Vision of the eVTOL Association
The mission of the Hong Kong eVTOL Industry Association is clear: to advance eVTOL technology through collaborative R&D and industry partnerships. By engaging with stakeholders across academia, government, and the private sector, the Association aims to support the safe and effective commercialization of eVTOL innovations. It also seeks to promote sustainable urban mobility and drive economic growth through the development of a robust ecosystem.
The Association’s vision is equally ambitious: to establish Hong Kong as a global hub for eVTOL innovation. By integrating cutting-edge research and practical applications, Hong Kong aspires to enhance connectivity, sustainability, and economic development. The Association aims to transfer eVTOL innovations from research to real-world applications, redefining urban transportation and solidifying the Greater Bay Area’s leadership in the global eVTOL market.
Strong Global Connections and Expert Collaboration
The Hong Kong eVTOL Industry Association benefits from a robust network of local, Mainland, and international partnerships, bringing together experts in engineering, mathematics, computer science, and more. Collaborations with leading universities and research leaders are vital for the advancement of eVTOL aircraft technology, supporting original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and aircraft operators.
City University of Hong Kong: A Hub of Innovation
CityU has become a global leader in innovative research. The University actively explores fields like electric vehicles, air mobility, spatial data analysis, digital twins, and artificial intelligence—essential components for eVTOL operations. The University’s research initiatives, supported by CIMDA, focus on AI and data analysis to optimize eVTOL operations and prepare students to become future leaders in urban air mobility.
Prof. Hong Yan, Director of CIMDA at CityU, expressed his excitement about Hong Kong’s potential, saying, “Hong Kong has a world-class business environment and research community. At CIMDA, we are thrilled to contribute our AI and data analysis expertise to the eVTOL industry and train future leaders for this evolving market.”
Strategic Government Engagement
The Association actively collaborates with the HKSAR government and industry stakeholders to shape policies that support eVTOL development. By addressing safety and regulatory concerns, the Association aims to ensure sustainable growth in this emerging field. Additionally, it is exploring market demands to establish a comprehensive industry chain that will boost the low-altitude economy.
Prof. Ray Cheung, Associate Provost at CityU, emphasized the city’s strategic position: “Hong Kong’s strong global connections and support from the Motherland make it an ideal hub for eVTOL R&D and business expansion, increasing our competitiveness in the global market.”
Partnership with Shenzhen: Building a Robust Drone Economy
Hong Kong’s proximity to Shenzhen, a global leader in the drone industry, offers significant advantages. Dr. David Chung, CEO of Trio AI Limited, highlighted this collaboration, saying, “Hong Kong can work with Shenzhen to develop a strong drone economy, leveraging our region’s rich resources in scientific research and technological innovation.”
Industry Leadership and Future Prospects
Mr. K. S. Ng, Chairman of FDB Group, explained the Association’s strategic objectives: “Our goal is to establish a global hub for eVTOL technology, representing various stakeholders worldwide. By aligning with local and regional standards, we aim to facilitate R&D-to-market transition, creating a complete value chain and a vibrant business ecosystem.”
The Road Ahead for eVTOL in Hong Kong
The Hong Kong eVTOL Industry Association is committed to leading the global conversation around urban air mobility. By fostering innovation, creating partnerships, and addressing market needs, the Association envisions a future where eVTOL technology revolutionizes urban transportation. With support from CityU, industry partners, and government bodies, Hong Kong is on track to become a global center for eVTOL research and business, driving economic growth and improving urban mobility in the Greater Bay Area and beyond.
About the Hong Kong eVTOL Industry Association
The Hong Kong eVTOL Industry Association is a premier organization focused on the research and development of electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) technology. Our mission is to drive innovation and facilitate the commercialization of eVTOL solutions in Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area. By collaborating with experts across various sectors, we aim to establish a thriving eVTOL ecosystem that enhances urban connectivity and promotes economic growth.
For more: The Rise of eVTOL Technology in Hong Kong