After a couple of weeks of rumors and speculation about an Apple/Hyundai/Kia partnership to manufacture the Apple Car, it appears talks have stalled.
The first rule of working with Apple is ‘don’t talk about working with Apple.’ The Cupertino company is notoriously tight-lipped about its projects, especially those that have yet to be announced.
Unfortunately for Hyundai, the carmaker got its relationship with Apple off to an ignominious start by making a statementthat it was in talks with the company. Hyundai immediately walked back that statement with two subsequent statements, but it may have been too late.
According to Bloomberg, sources indicate the talks between the companies have been paused, with Hyundai’s loose lips being cited as the likely reason. Another possible issue is which brand the Apple Car would be produced under, Hyundai or Kia, sister brands owned by Hyundai Motor Group. Given Apple’s reputation for making high-end products, it would likely want the Apple Car made by Hyundai, since Hyundai is the upscale, luxury brand. Reports, however, indicate that Kia has been tasked with taking point on Apple’s project.
It’s unclear whether the talks will resume, or if this is a permanent breakup. Even if it is permanent, however, there’s no shortage of automakers that would jump at the chance to build the Apple Car.