Michigan challenges Silicon Valley's lead in self-driving tech

New York

IN THE race to develop self-driving cars, Michigan is suddenly aiming to give Silicon Valley a run for its money.

The Motor City has been the centre of the United States auto industry for more than a century. But as computer chips and software have become increasingly important in cars, Silicon Valley has seemed to take the lead, especially in the development of the supersmart cars of tomorrow.

Google and Tesla, for example, have been at the forefront in creating cars with the ability to drive themselves. And many carmakers have opened California outposts to become part of the high-tech scene. Uber and Lyft, the app-based ride-hailing services, are both based in San Francisco.

But Michigan is trying to regain the high ground. General Motors (GM), Ford Motor and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles are all engaged in autonomous vehicle projects based in Detroit's environs. And the state government is laying the ground for even more self-driving developm…