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To promote the establishment of charging facilities for electric vehicles (EVs) in private properties, the Government today (January 21) launched a hotline to serve as a one-stop shop to assist those seeking to set them up.
"To better facilitate the setting up of EV charging facilities in private premises, we have launched a hotline to provide information and professional guidance on the installation procedures and related technical requirements," said Mr Edward Yau, the Secretary for the Environment, after the fifth meeting of the Steering Committee on the Promotion of EVs. The hotline, 3757 6222, manned by the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department, also provides general information regarding EVs.
"The availability of charging facilities is critical to potential car owners in considering whether to purchase an EV. This underlines the importance of a supporting charging infrastructure in promoting the wider use of EVs," said Mr Yau.
In addition to carmakers Mitsubishi and Nissan, the US-based EV manufacturer Detroit Electric is set to enter the Hong Kong market, and plans to introduce five-seater saloon EVs here in the first half of 2011.
The Government has been working with the property and car park management sectors to expand the charging network in private properties. Two seminars have been held to familiarise these sectors with procedures and issues relating to the setting up of charging facilities.
At today's meeting, the Steering Committee also noted trial plans for a number of EVs or plug-in hybrid vehicles in Hong Kong, including Toyota's Prius Plug-in Hybrid, MINI E and "Smart fortwo" electric drive.
Ends/Friday, January 21, 2011
Issued at HKT 18:23
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