Internet businessman proposes support for driverless cars

An Internet businessman has appealed to China's political advisory body for more policy support for development of driverless cars.

"More Chinese companies are investing in driverless car R&D, but related regulations and policies lag behind," Baidu CEO Robin Li wrote in a proposal submitted to the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) National Committee ahead of its annual session opening on Thursday.

"The government should roll out a top-down development plan and supporting financial policies to encourage Chinese car makers and Internet companies to collaborate in R&D," said Li, who is member of the CPPCC National Committee.

There should be more regulation in place to support development and promotion of these vehicles, Li wrote in his proposal.

Li also called for industries including education and power to be opened up more to private investment, and for better airspace management to address air traffic congestion and flight delays.

Li proposed last year a national artificial intelligence program.

Deputies to the National People's Congress, the national legislature, and members of the CPPCC National Committee attend the "two sessions." Among them are political leaders, economists, entrepreneurs, artists and sportsmen.

NPC deputies can submit motions, which are legally binding once adopted, while members of the CPPCC National Committee might put forward non-binding proposals. Endi