Connected Cities & Digital Infrastructure.
The digital backbone that connects people, systems, and essential services
Smart city initiatives are revolutionizing urban environments across Greater China, harnessing digital technologies to create spaces that are more connected, efficient, and convenient. By integrating artificial intelligence, Internet-of-Things (IoT), and advanced connectivity into core infrastructure—such as transportation, logistics, and payment services—these projects are rapidly evolving. The ecosystem now includes autonomous vehicles, connected cars, palm payments, and drone delivery systems, presenting significant opportunities alongside complex legal and regulatory challenges.
How we support our clients
Hogan Lovells partners with companies driving smart city development throughout Greater China, helping them navigate regulatory requirements and implement practical, compliant solutions. Our team provides strategic guidance on licensing, data privacy, security, and cross-border operations, ensuring clients can innovate confidently and sustainably in this dynamic landscape.
Areas of focus
Autonomous Driving
- Designing testing plans and obtaining licenses for robotaxis and autonomous vehicles
- Developing deployment strategies that meet regulatory requirements
- Supporting technology incubators with contractual documents for trial runs
Connected Vehicles
- Advising on smart cockpits, cloud-based connectivity, and V2X communication
- Implementing compliance frameworks for privacy and security in large-scale data sharing
Palm Payments
- Addressing data privacy, security, and accidental payment risks
- Developing tailored compliance solutions for biometric payment technologies
Drone Delivery
- Navigating licensing and regulatory complexities for logistics providers
- Preparing contractual documents for low-altitude economy (LAE) regulatory sandbox and pilot schemes
- Supporting cross-border drone delivery between Hong Kong and mainland Chinese cities
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