Designing an Equitable & Sustainable
Future of Transportation
in Hong Kong
2024 Imperial Hackathon Challenge
Hackathon Challenge Context:
As a thriving metropolis, Hong Kong faces increasing transportation challenges amidst rapid urbanisation and global climate change. To ensure a sustainable future, the city must address issues such as:
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Environmental Impact: Reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable transportation modes.
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Equity and Inclusion: Ensuring accessible and affordable transportation for all citizens, regardless of socioeconomic status or ability.
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Efficiency and Innovation: Enhancing the efficiency of existing transportation systems and exploring new technologies like electric vehicles, shared mobility, and autonomous vehicles.
Develop innovative solutions that address these challenges holistically, considering scientific approaches, technological advancements, business models, and societal factors. Your solution should contribute to a more sustainable, equitable, and efficient transportation system for Hong Kong.
Develop innovative solutions for transportation systems that prioritise the following:
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Sustainability: Reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting clean energy technologies or artificial intelligence. How does your solution reduce carbon emissions and promote renewable energy?
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Equity: Ensuring equitable access to transportation for all communities in Hong Kong. How does your solution improve accessibility and affordability for all citizens?
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Efficiency: Optimising transportation systems that leverage clean energy technologies or artificial intelligence for maximum efficiency and resource utilisation. What new technologies or approaches are you proposing?
Whatever solution is proposed, it is important to approach the problem holistically with a mindset of making things better, rather than making better things. We invite you to participate in our hackathon and share your innovative ideas for shaping a better future for Hong Kong's transportation system.
Selected t​eams will present a prototype or conceptual idea (or model) of the solution, demonstrating how AI and clean energy are integrated into the future of transport or aviation. All selected teams should also include a digital strategy for implementation and management.
HACKATHON PROGRAMME STRUCTURE
01
Register Your Team
Form a team of up to four members and complete the Registration Form. Whether you’re an individual student or representing a school, registration is free for those in the Hong Kong school communities.
02
Showcase Your Innovation
Create and submit a 3 to 5-minute video proposal with a 200-300 word explanation of your innovative solution by 23rd September.
03
Present Your Project
Your innovative project will be showcased at the Hong Kong Science Park on 13th October, witnessed by Imperial Academics and Delegation, industry experts, Imperial Alumni, other Hong Kong schools, parents, and more.
04
Compete for Victory
Winners, selected by expert judges, will have the opportunity to showcase their projects at the UK school’s Hackathon next summer at Imperial College London.
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Enjoy The Rewards
Winning teams will receive certificates and cash awards, offering tangible recognition for your achievements and paving the way for future innovations.
06
Expand Your Horizon
Your project will gain exposure, potentially boosting your university applications to Imperial, attracting potential investor interest, and opening possible opportunities for crowdfunding.
*Hover over each activity to learn more.
RECOMMENDED AREAS OF FOCUS
Electric Vehicles
Explore advancements in battery technology, charging infrastructure, and autonomous driving for EVs, considering factors such as accessibility and affordability.
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Alternative Fuels
Investigate the potential of hydrogen fuel cells, biofuels, or other sustainable energy sources for transportation, focusing on their environmental impact and economic viability.
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Public Transport
Design smart and inclusive public transportation systems that integrate AI for optimisation and reduce reliance on personal vehicles. Consider accessibility for all users, including those with disabilities.
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Urban Mobility
Consider the role of urban design and infrastructure in promoting sustainable transportation. Develop smart solutions for last-mile delivery, ride-sharing, and alternative mobility options suitable for a growing and inclusive population in Hong Kong, ensuring equitable access for all communities.
Aviation
Explore the feasibility of sustainable aircraft and the role of AI in optimising flight routes and reducing emissions while considering the environmental and social impacts of aviation.
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HACKATHON JUDGING CRITERIA
INNOVATION
The originality and creativity of the proposed solution.
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FEASIBILITY
The practicality and viability of the solution.
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PRESENTATION
The clarity and effectiveness of the team's presentation.
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SUSTAINABILITY
The environmental impact and potential for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
IMPACT
The potential positive impact on society, economy, and the environment.
DIVERSE TEAM
The formation of teams with diverse backgrounds and perspectives to foster innovative solutions.​
SOCIAL EQUITY
The consideration of diverse needs and the potential to address social inequalities.
BUSINESS MODEL
The proposed business model for commercialising the solution.
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PRIZES AND AWARDS
Champion •Tech Gadget: An Apple iPad Mini for each winning team member. •First Place Trophy: Be awarded the prestigious Imperial Hackathon Champion trophy. •A $25,000 (USD) in Google Cloud credits (shared amongst the winning team members) to fuel your team project's development and deployment •Letter of Recommendation: Receive a letter of recommendation from an Imperial College London faculty member and an Imperial Hackathon judge. •Certification: Earn a first-place certification for each winning team member. •Imperial Open Day Invitation: Receive a personal invitation to attend Imperial's on-campus Open Day in June (please note that travel and accommodation expenses are not covered by the invitation).
2nd Place •HKD$1000 Amazon Voucher: Receive a $1000 HKD Amazon voucher per team member. •Second Place Trophy: Be awarded the 2nd place trophy. •Letter of Recommendation: Receive a letter of recommendation from an Imperial College London faculty member. •Certification: Earn a first runner-up certification.
3rd Place •Letter of Recommendation: Receive a letter of recommendation from an Imperial College London faculty member. •Certification: Earn a second runner-up certification.