“China-based internet company Baidu has received a permit to test its self-driving cars in California from the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles, as the race to introduce driverless automobiles accelerates. Baidu, which unveiled its autonomous vehicle in China last December and has been steadily increasing its investments and partnerships in the sector, has already tested on Chinese roads and highways. California is seen as a crucial testing ground for autonomous vehicles due to technological innovations being developed in Silicon Valley, where many car companies and start-ups operate research labs to develop self-driving technology.”