14 DAY TRIAL // Apple is getting ready to expand into the automotive market, and many see the Cupertino-based tech giant as the number one rival for Tesla, the company which at some level has the same tech-oriented focus as the iPhone maker.
While he didn’t say anything about the Apple Car, CEO Tim Cook discussed his relationship with Tesla’s founder Elon Musk in an interview with Kara Swisher, explaining that he never got the chance to meet him.
Oddly enough, Musk has recently revealed that he actually wanted to sell Tesla to Apple, but reaching out to Cook was pretty much impossible and the CEO didn’t even agree to meet.
Tim Cook didn’t necessarily deny the rumor, but emphasized that he never talked to Elon Musk. But of course, he likes what he does at the helm of Tesla.
“You know I’ve never spoken to Elon, although I have great admiration and respect for the company he has built. I think Tesla has done an unbelievable job of not only establishing the lead but keeping the lead for such a long period of time in the EV space. So I have great appreciation for them,” he said.
The Apple Car project
As far as Apple Car project is concerned, it’s believed it has reached the stage where Apple needs a partner to manufacture the vehicle. After failed talks with Hyundai and likely other carmakers, Apple is believed to be considering a contract manufacturer, and the company could turn its attention to long-time partner Foxconn.
Currently the number one iPhone maker, Foxconn is already preparing for the production of EVs in North America, and it’s believed Apple would be one of its biggest clients. Of course, everything has remained as uncertain as possible, as none of the two sides currently want to discuss a potential Apple Car.