Professor Tak Lee (right) in the driver's seat of the MyCar project, which involves Hong Kong funding and co-ordination, mainland manufacturing and EU market expertise

The environmentally friendly, two-seater vehicle powered by a motorcycle engine was conceived in Hong Kong, made in China and is destined for niche markets in Europe - especially France and Italy, where such vehicles have already existed for some time. Being developed by the School of Design at Hong Kong Polytechnic University, the invention is targeted towards people without a valid driver's licence such as the elderly, the handicapped and the youth market.

"The concept was simple - to leverage on Hong Kong's strengths in design and styling and the low cost base of sourcing and manufacturing in China," said project leader Professor Tak Lee, who graduated from the Central School of Art and Design in London and started his career as a product designer in UK.

The internationally-renowned Giugiaro Design in Italy was responsible for some design, engineering and testing issues and to ensure that all EU certification requirements are met. "Their engineering expertise and automotive industry knowledge are vital contributions," added Prof Lee, who won awards for the Peifan Lucky Star project - the first family car designed for the Chinese mainland market.

Thumbs up all round

His latest vehicle was road tested on the Ferrari track in Italy. "The vehicle's performance was meticulously tested and benchmarked. MyCar passed with flying colours," said a proud Prof Lee.

The prototype of MyCar had its debut at the Bologna Motor Show in December 2003 where according to Prof Lee it won plaudits "amongst the design community and the local industry".

Hong Kong is the headquarters for the entire venture, overseeing the strategic operation leading to the project's successful implementation, Prof Lee said.

"Hong Kong has a pivotal role to play as Chinese manufacturers make the transition from OEMs to OBMs and OSMs (Original Strategy Management). As cross border collaboration increases, Hong Kong can be the international facilitator and co-ordinator for the low cost manufacturers in China. For foreign businesses looking to tap into China's extensive manufacturing bases, Hong Kong is the key partner necessary to access those opportunities."

Hong Kong's first JV car to go into mass production in 2006

Related link
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University