China's online search giant Baidu. [File Photo: pcgames.com]

China's top online search firm aims to put self-driving buses on the road in three years.

The decision from Baidu comes after it set up a business unit to oversee all its efforts related to automobiles.

The unit will also include its initiative in partnership with BMW to develop a self-driving passenger vehicle.

Senior Vice President Wang Jing will lead the new unit as general manager.

However, Baidu has declined to give details on potential auto manufacturer partners for the bus or the investment amounts for the unit.