Key Insights:
Engagement with Major Automakers: Apple reportedly held discussions with prominent car manufacturers such as Mercedes-Benz, Ford, and Tesla.
Mercedes Partnership Exploration: Apple was notably in pursuit of a partnership with Mercedes-Benz, contemplating a collaboration where Apple would develop its autonomous driving platform while Mercedes would handle vehicle production. However, Apple later abandoned this plan, believing in its capacity to produce a car independently.
Ford Discussions: The tech giant explored the possibility of selling the Apple Car under Ford’s Lincoln brand, but these discussions did not lead to any concrete outcomes.
Tesla Battery Supply Talks: There were considerations of acquiring Tesla in the past, but Apple CEO Tim Cook rejected the idea. Instead, discussions were held with Tesla regarding battery supply.
Consideration to Acquire McLaren: Apple seriously contemplated purchasing the automaker McLaren and had plans to establish a new design studio in London under the leadership of Apple’s chief designer, Jony Ive.
Steve Jobs' Vision: The Apple Car project was originally an idea from Apple’s co-founder, Steve Jobs. Post the 2008 financial crisis, there was a notion to purchase General Motors due to the dire state of American car companies, but this was sidelined due to the success of the iPhone.
These revelations provide a deeper understanding of Apple's ambitions in the automotive sector and the strategic decisions that led to the project's cancellation.