A Smart Mobility Consortium on Cellular-Vehicle-to-Everything (C-V2X) technologies has been formed by the Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute (ASTRI), HKT Limited, Huawei and Qualcomm Technologies. C-V2X technologies, based upon the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) release 14 specification with evolution path towards 5G, operates through both network-based communications on commercial cellular infrastructure, as well as direct communications over the 5.9GHz band.

Dedicated range(s) in the 5.9GHz band is allocated to Intelligent Transport System (ITS) services in US, Europe and Japan, and is also being considered for ITS services in other places such as Mainland China.

The Consortium seeks to utilise the power of C-V2X technologies to enhance the Smart Mobility pillar with Safe Mobility element beyond the existing aims of Efficient Mobility, Efficient Logistics, Barrier-Free Community and Adaption of Intelligent Technology.

A C-V2X powered smart mobility system not only allows vehicles to connect to the cloud, but also enables vehicles to communicate with one another as well as with pedestrians, and to synchronize with infrastructure. With C-V2X, “co-operative awareness” between vehicles, pedestrians and the road environment makes it possible to realize mobility safety as well as autonomous driving. Furthermore, it can also support law enforcers, traffic and urban management institutions, and transportation companies to plan and monitor the safety and efficiency of traffic movements.

The Consortium aims to use C-V2X to introduce a series of Intelligent Transport Services (ITS) in Hong Kong including a warning mechanism for collision and control, assistance for cruise control and parking, and alert systems for speed and lane violations. In addition, it will help drivers and traffic administrators to identify potential loopholes and risks in aspects like road intersections, pedestrian crossings and traffic queues.

The Consortium plans to work alongside the Government, automobile industry, and other relevant industry stakeholders to make this happen. Upon successful completion and rollout, the project is expected to lead to further opportunities for related sectors including shipment, ridesharing, home-delivery, insurance, infotainment, and mobile healthcare, etc.