Apple is well-known for keeping the public in the dark about their upcoming products. While management has changed over the years, the brand’s knack for mystique continues to propel it forward as a leader in the consumer electronics industry, but what about the automobile industry?
Rumors have been circulating about an Apple Car expected to be released in the years to come. Like any of their phones or computers, though, this launch is shrouded in mystery. Thankfully, a steady stream of information has been leaking for a while now. Here’s everything you can know so far about the Apple Car.
The Release
The exact release date of this unique automobile isn’t crystal clear. Leaks have stated the launch could take place in 2024 or 2025, but those are best guesses and estimates at best. You can likely expect Apple to solidify the creation of this automobile a few years before the release date, so keep your eyes peeled.
Apple Making a Car?
It’s an odd thing to hear, right? A titan of cell phones and computers entering the automobile world sounds more than a little farfetched, but there are more than enough rumors to confirm that the brand is taking this direction.
Cupertino, a technology giant from California, has an engineering team working on interiors, drive systems, and external body designs while you’re reading this. With such a big name behind the creation, you can bet owners of the Apple Car won’t need a lemon law attorney in San Francisco like some other not-so-great players in the electric vehicle realm.
Another source leaked that the initial design doesn’t include a driver, which means they’ll be autonomous. That could mean they are meant to be used for food deliveries or robo-taxis instead of the consumer market initially, but it’s unclear which market will receive the Apple Car first.
Finally, the public knows it is indeed a car by now and not simply an autonomous platform. Another leak specified that the car will be built with Hyundai’s E-GMP electric vehicle platform, meaning this will be a legitimate vehicle. Of course, Apple does love to surprise the public. So, only time will tell for sure.
The Make
Reports indicate that Apple has spoken with several major manufacturers. Kia and parent company Hyundai, however, are reported to be the lead choices. Other reports indicate that at least six manufacturers have a hand in the car’s creation.
One clearer piece of information does let consumers know that Apple is going to keep production in the United States. Foxconn and Taiwan are out of the equation this time, leaving Apple to rely on U.S. based manufacturers to create its own part designs ranging from the drive system to external body and more.
The Specs
No one will know for sure until Apple says so, but possible specs are hinted at by Hyundai’s E-GMP platform. That includes going from zero to 60 in 3.5 seconds with top speeds of 161mph. The battery offers a 310-mile range, charges to 80% in as little as 18 minutes, and can range in design from a sedan to an SUV.
The tech, especially with a heavy focus on autonomous capability and Apple’s innovation, is expected to be incredible. So far project Titan, Apple’s AI drive system, is one of the most promising in the sense that riders won’t need a wrongful death law firm on speed dial. Little has been said so far, but you can expect nothing but big things from Apple.
As for the price, you can expect to pay the usual Apple premium. The car is expected to be an extremely high-end model with a cost soaring above the standard electric automobile. The real question will be whether or not the price point surpasses Tesla.