MTR (00066) plans to introduce 30 electric buses by the end of 2026, and will begin researching hydrogen-powered light rail within the year.

Hong Kong is promoting green transportation. Hong Kong MTR Corporation (00066) Managing Director Adi Lau said the company plans to introduce 30 electric buses by the end of 2026, replacing existing diesel buses. Some Legislative Council members hope that MTR can accelerate its efforts. Lau stated that MTR is committed to integrating environmental and low-carbon elements into the planning, design, construction, and daily operations of the railway network, with the goal of halving greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. Legislative Council member (Engineering sector) Lo Wai-kwok stated that new energy vehicles, including single-deck and double-deck buses, are mature on the mainland and prices are becoming more affordable, so he supports MTR's transition in this area and hopes that progress can be expedited. Lau also mentioned that MTR hopes to commence a study on hydrogen-powered light rail this year, including data collection and experience gathering. The research work is expected to take several months, followed by further study on long-term development. She explained that MTR plans to study low-floor hydrogen-powered light rail, as the company recently replaced a new batch of high-floor light rail cars and expects their service life to continue for some time. MTR will consider green hydrogen supply and the potential for future high-floor hydrogen-powered trains before deciding on the next steps. Hong Kong Policy Research Institute's Tang Pak-zen raised concerns about whether MTR is collaborating with mainland manufacturers to retrofit light rail for hydrogen-powered operation, continuing to operate on high floors. Lau responded that the technology and cost-effectiveness involved in retrofitting are significant challenges, but MTR will keep these options open. MTR's Chief of Operations Engineering & Innovation Henry Chan stated that the development of hydrogen in rail transportation is still in the early stages, with challenges including Hong Kong's complex road environment. MTR needs to study the operation of hydrogen-powered trains to ensure the proper handling of industrial, supply, storage, transport, and personnel training aspects.