Should Hong Kong allow EV drivers to play films, other videos on main screen?

Observers urge government to clearly define rules for what can be displayed on monitors used by EV drivers, as legal amendment looms

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A legal change could allow content unrelated to driving, such as videos, to be shown on the visual display unit in front of the driver’s seat. Photo: Shutterstock

Published: 8:30am, 5 Dec 2024Updated: 2:48pm, 5 Dec 2024

Hong Kong should clearly define rules over what can be displayed on monitors used by drivers of electric vehicles (EVs) to ensure safety, observers have said, as lawmakers consider legal changes that could allow for videos to be played on the screens.

Secretary for Transport and Logistics Lam Sai-hung said on Wednesday a legislative amendment set to be submitted this month would remove some restrictions on features able to be used in EVs.

The move would potentially allow content unrelated to driving, such as videos, to be shown on the visual display unit in front of the driver’s seat.

The changes also include allowing motorists to use a mobile phone to remotely park their vehicle, a feature widely available for EVs in mainland China, the United States and some European countries.

Duncan Chiu, a lawmaker for the innovation and technology sector, urged authorities to move ahead with the changes swiftly.

“We should make quick changes to allow these vehicles to have the functionality to watch videos inside the vehicle only when it is in park mode. It does not affect safety,” Chiu said.