Baidu slips into higher gear in driverless cars

With each passing year, the World Internet Conference in Wuzhen, Zhejiang province, appears to evolve, in terms of wowing audiences and media with unprecedented, unexpected experiences.

Last year, Baidu Inc showcased its driverless car in an exhibition. The event was made memorable by Baidu CEO Robin Li, who stood next to the vehicle and, wielding a microphone with elan, introduced its features.

This year, the Wuzhen event took the art of audience-wowing to a whole new level. Media and participants were afforded real-life rides in driverless vehicles. Hand it to Baidu's rapid progress in the development of new tech.