Rearview mirror: Car industry's hot topics in 2017

4. Beijing roads open to autonomous tests

Local authorities in Beijing released China's first guideline on road tests of autonomous motor vehicles in December, signaling the country's determination to accelerate the development of the technology. The guideline, compiled by the city's transport commission, public security bureau, and economy and information technology commission, applies to independent entities registered in China. They can apply to test at most five vehicles at a time, but before conducting road tests they must first complete tests in designated closed zones, according to the guideline. Many Chinese companies, both carmakers and IT giants, are already working hard on the research and development of autonomous driving technology.