Twenty Master of Science (MSc) students from the School of Engineering have become the latest recipients of the enterprising Ford-Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Conservation and Environmental Research Grants program.

 

The unique program between Ford Motor Company and the University promotes environmental research focused on green technologies and transportation. Research projects being undertaken by the 2015-16 recipients include battery efficiency for next-generation vehicles, smart car windows to conserve energy, and personalized ventilation in vehicles.

 

The program, established in 2013, has benefited 42 of the School’s MSc students to date. As in previous years, Ford contributed HK$500,000 for the graduate research grants, which was matched by HKUST for a total grants pool of HK$1 million.

 

Prof King Lun Yeung, Associate Dean of Engineering (Research and Graduate Studies), said partnerships with Ford and other industry leaders were “testaments of our continuing efforts to build international connections and provide a collaborative learning environment”.

 

In mid-2015, 2014-15 recipients visited Ford Motor Company’s regional headquarters in Bangkok, Thailand, to present their Grant research findings to Ford executives, toured company manufacturing facilities in Rayong and learnt about advanced automotive technologies.

 

Mr David Westerman, Managing Director, Asia Pacific Emerging Markets, Ford Motor Company, said: “The Grants program demonstrates our shared commitment to building a better world through original ideas and new technologies.”