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Multiple rumors over the course of the last week have suggested that Apple has been discussing Apple car manufacturing with Hyundai and Hyundai affiliate Kia, but those talks have paused recently, reports Bloomberg.

Apple-car-wheel-icon-feature-purple.jpg

Apple has also been discussing its Apple Car plans with other automobile manufacturers, so despite rumors suggesting Apple is considering a deal with Hyundai/Kia, Apple could establish an agreement with another company. Nikkei earlier today said that Apple was speaking with at least six Japanese automakers over supply partnerships and manufacturing contributions.

Earlier this week, CNBC said that Apple was close to finalizing a deal with Kia. Apple's talks with Hyundai have been known since early January when Hyundai confirmed that it had held discussions with Apple.

"We understand that Apple is in discussion with a variety of global automakers, including Hyundai Motor. As the discussion is at its early stage, nothing has been decided," the company said. Just hours later, Hyundai walked back the statement and eliminated the reference to Apple.

Hyundai's announcement and other detailed rumors about Apple's negotiations with the automaker have upset Apple. According to Bloomberg, it is not clear if and when discussions between Apple and Hyundai might resume, but there are a limited number of automakers that would be capable of manufacturing vehicles for Apple.

If talks do resume, it is likely that Apple will end up partnering with Kia to manufacture the Apple Car at Kia's U.S. factory located in Georgia.

Apple has some time to sort out its manufacturing and production plans as Bloomberg in an earlier report said that it will be five to seven years before the Apple Car is ready to launch.

Article Link: Apple Pauses Electric Car Talks With Hyundai and Kia
 
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Reactions: BeefCake 15
Why would any car manufacturer want to make a car for Apple if it makes them another Foxconn? Apple should have just approached Tesla and have a joint car development. Maybe something innovative could come out of that. The only way car manufacturers would be okay is if their branding is still in the car. Like Kia Apple Car or something. Ford Apple Car. Toyota Apple Car. etc...
 
Why would any car manufacturer want to make a car for Apple if it makes them another Foxconn? Apple should have just approached Tesla and have a joint car development. Maybe something innovative could come out of that. The only way car manufacturers would be okay is if their branding is still in the car. Like Kia Apple Car or something. Ford Apple Car. Toyota Apple Car. etc...

Why would Tesla agree to that? Tesla wants to control the entire development and production of their vehicles. There is no reason for Tesla to share profits with anyone else now that they're going 200 miles/hour and look unstoppable.

Not buying Tesla back in 2018/2019 is going to be Apple's biggest mistake.
 
"Bloomberg in an earlier report said that it will be five to seven years before the Apple Car is ready to launch."

I start saving now, by the time it's released I probably only need $100k.;)
Actually, now that I think of it, it depends on demographics.
If Apple wants to reach the masses it would need to set an aggressive price, like 30-40k.

Or they could release lots of models.
Apple car A, for the masses, A stands for affordable.
Apple car L, Luxury, 100k.
Apple car E, executive, 200-300k.

Forgot one
Apple car C, collectors item, runs in the millions.
 
Actually, now that I think of it, it depends on demographics.
If Apple wants to reach the masses it would need to set an aggressive price, like 30-40k.

Or they could release lots of models.
Apple car A, for the masses, A stands for affordable.
Apple car L, Luxury, 100k.
Apple car E, executive, 200-300k.

Forgot one
Apple car C, collectors item, runs in the millions.
I don't know about you, but I don't want to pay 200k for a Kia. They make quality cars and all, but when I'm paying 200k for a car, it's more about brand than it is quality.
 
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