Apple has permits to test self-driving cars in nearly every California county

Apple, on the verge of being the first $1 trillion market capitalization company, constantly looks to expand its business and product and service lines. SAN FRANCISCO -- Could the iCar be hitting the road soon? After CEO Tim Cook admitted last summer that Apple was indeed working on self-driving car technology, the company largely has remained mum on details. But with state permits to operate 55 autonomous cars in California, it seems the iPhone maker could be ready to try out some of its autonomous car tech on Golden State roads. In the latest tally of permits issued as of May 10 for both self-driving cars and drivers approved to monitor such vehicles, the California Department of Motor Vehicles says Apple ranks second only to General Motors' Cruise Automotive, which has permits for 104 vehicles.