Baidu's Luobo Kuaipao Launches Public Trials in Tung Chung Next Week
AM730 · 2 SOURCESabout 3 hours ago4 MIN
Summary
Baidu's autonomous ride-hailing service Luobo Kuaipao (蘿蔔快跑) will kick off Hong Kong's first public trial of self-driving vehicles in Tung Chung from October 21 to November 3, 2026. The two-week program offers 540 complimentary physical tickets distributed on a first-come, first-served basis starting Friday at the Islands District Office, with routes spanning 5.1 kilometres between Yat Tung Estate Carpark 1 and the Tung Chong Marriott Hotel. Media ride-alongs on October 15 reported smooth handling through roundabouts, with driving performance comparable to human operators .
Key Points
- Free tickets (540 total) distributed from October 16 at Islands District Office; no registration required
- Daily service runs 2–6 PM, covering 5.1 km in approximately 15 minutes at up to 50 km/h
- Each vehicle seats maximum 2 passengers aged 8+ and at least 1.35 metres tall; up to 8 vehicles deployed
- Spacious cabin features touchscreen controls for seat angle and air-conditioning, plus heating and massage seats
- Safety operator remains on board with hands lightly touching the steering wheel; multiple backup vehicles on standby
Why It Matters
This pilot programme marks a pivotal step toward normalising autonomous transport in Hong Kong's densely populated areas. Success could accelerate regulatory approval and expand self-driving services to other districts, positioning the city as a regional leader in smart mobility .
This pilot programme marks a pivotal step toward normalising autonomous transport in Hong Kong's densely populated areas. Success could accelerate regulatory approval and expand self-driving services to other districts, positioning the city as a regional leader in smart mobility .