Image source: MacRumours
Two new reports suggest that the multi-million dollar deal between Apple and Hyundai-Kia may not be exclusive.
According to Nikkei newspaper, Apple met and discussed with at least six automakers on its autonomous electric car project. Honda Motor Co, and Mazda Motor could not comment if they were involved in discussions with Apple while Nissan declined to comment. Mitsubishi Motors said it was not contacted while Subaru Corp shared that it hasn't heard anything about the Apple Car project.
Analysts believe Nissan is the best partner for Apple to enter the electronic vehicle (EV) market. Nissan has collaborated with Renault SA on a common EV platform that Apple can use to build its own branded EVs.
A separate report by the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) claims Kia has reached out to potential partners on a plan to build the Apple Car. Sources say the proposal includes a multi-billion dollar investment. Earlier this week, Korean publication DongA reported that Apple will invest $3.6 billion in Kia to build the Apple Car. CNBC reported yesterday that the first generation of Apple Cars will be autonomous and they are "not designed to have a driver".
Source: Bloomberg, WSJ via MacRumours
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