An Apple Car on the roads in the next few years now appears even more likely, following a fresh report that Apple and Hyundai/Kia are close to finalizing a deal. Over the past couple of months, the speculation surrounding Apple moving into the car market has intensified, but this seems to be as close to a confirmation of Apple’s intent as possible, without the company outright issuing a statement.
Apple Car rumors have circulated for some time, but the frequency and detail started to increase in December when a report suggested one could arrive as early as 2024. While there had been some debate on whether Apple would go it alone or partner with a car-maker, multiple reports seemed to indicate a partnership with Hyundai or Kia (owned by Hyundai) was the most likely outcome.
Now, according to a new CNBC report, Apple is as close as it gets to agreeing terms and finalizing a deal that will effectively include both Hyundai and Kia. According to sources reportedly familiar with the matter, the deal would see the Apple Car being manufactured in West Point, Georgia at Kia’s assembly plant. However, the report goes on to provide additional details on what the deal might look like, if it does close as now expected.
Besides what appears to be a confirmation that a deal is about to be done between Apple and Hyundai, the report looks to provide some additional context on what the market can expect. To begin with, there’s the clear suggestion that the Apple Car is being built with the intention of it being fully autonomous. In other words, it is being designed without a driver in mind, making their use as delivery vehicles or robotaxis all the more likely. This would make Apple’s approach more similar to Google’s Waymo than Tesla’s self-driving Model lineup, at least to begin with.
In addition, the report also adds more context to the expected time-line. Past reports have waivered on this point with the general suggestion being the first Apple Car could arrive anytime between 2024 and 2028. However, the latest from CNBC is the earlier year is the more likely, with the expectation the Apple Car will go into production in 2024. This production date is tentative and subject to being pushed back somewhat, depending on what happens between now and then. Also of note, the report suggests that any deal with Hyundai might not be exclusive, with Apple apparently entertaining the idea of partnering with more than one car-maker to help further its autonomous car ambitions.
Source CNBC
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