Intelligent changes to reshape auto sector

Baidu chief sees widespread use of self-driving vehicles in next five years

Self-driving technology is expected to witness large-scale commercial application in the next five years, according to Robin Li Yanhong, chairman and CEO of internet search giant Baidu Inc.

Traffic congestion will be greatly alleviated and there will be no restrictions on vehicle purchase and use in the first-tier cities of China within five years, as autonomous driving technology becomes more popular, said Li at the Baidu World 2020, the company's annual flagship technology conference, in Beijing on Tuesday.

Li said the rate of traffic accidents will also be greatly reduced. "The intelligent transformation of the industry will bring conveniences to people's lives and promote economic development," he said.