Apple's car project said to be self-driving, electric, and unconventionally manufactured

February 16, 2015

After exploding onto the scene we're learning more and more about Apple's supposed automotive project, which is now said to include self-driving technologies. The vehicle, which has been described as (at this stage) being "minivan-like" is definitely in the gestational stages, with Apple toying around not just with autonomous driving but also electric drivetrains and new manufacturing processes.

Per Reuters:

Apple is gathering advice on parts and production methods, the source said, adding that Apple appeared not to be interested in combustion engine technology or conventional manufacturing methods. …

In addition to building a car, there is money to be made from the software operating system for a self-driving vehicle, as well as the services associated with autonomous driving, such as high-definition mapping, car-sharing and electric car recharging services, the auto industry source said.

"It's a software game. It's all about autonomous driving," the source said.

Apple's car project is said to include hundreds of employees. What exactly they're aiming to produce is up in the air, although Apple is apparently exploring all avenues — they are a company that will try just about anything internally. Unlike Google, which will try just about anything, including self-driving electric cars in the public. Whatever comes of this we probably won't know for some time (it might just be Apple building a test-bed for a next generation of CarPlay)… just look at how long we've been waiting for a 'proper' Apple TV.

Source: Reuters