Apple plans to start mass production of its very first car in 2024, according to a new report that cites sources familiar with the matter. Cupertino is now in talks with a number of suppliers, including LG Electronics and Toyota, over components.
Rumors surrounding an Apple car have circulated for years now, and despite claims that the company has made significant investments in development and personnel, we’re yet to see a vehicle come to fruition.
The company reportedly scaled back its car plans in 2017 to focus on other driving technologies that could be integrated into third-party vehicles. But just a couple of years later, it reignited plans to build an Apple car of its own.
Now, a new report claims Apple’s very first vehicle could enter mass production in 2024.
Apple car finally on the way?
“Apple is rumored to visit Asian suppliers and carmakers to prepare for the mass production of ‘Apple Car’ by 2024 amid global shortages of car chips and other components,” reports Digitimes, citing its own sources.
It is believed the company has entered talks with Toyota, LG Electronics and SK Group, another South Korean supplier, over certain vehicle components. Previous reports claimed Apple was also in talks with battery-makers.
The latest claims comes after Kevin Lynch, Apple’s VP of Technology, was apparently shifted to the Apple car project last month. That transition took place after the team lost “multiple top managers” earlier this year.
It seems, then, that after years of speculation and countless ups and downs, the Apple car project may be making headway at last. It should be noted, however, that Digitimes has a spotty track record for Apple rumors.
Other, more reliable sources have warned that Apple car won’t hit roads until 2025 at the earliest. When it does, it could be huge for Apple, with one analyst predicting it will push the company’s market cap above $3 trillion.
