Apple allegedly negotiating with Hyundai to produce Apple cars [Updated]

Apple is planning to work with Hyundai on the next Apple Car, according to a report by the Korean website Korea Economic Daily.

The report suggests that Apple is in negotiations with the Hyundai Motor Group to manufacture an “Apple Car”. Apple is planning to work with Hyundai to produce electric vehicles and develop batteries due to the “huge costs” of technology and production facilities needed.

Several earlier rumors have suggested that Apple would work with a manufacturing partner to produce the “Apple Car”, but until now, there has been no word on which manufacturer Apple could associate with. Since the report mentions “negotiations”, a deal may not have been reached yet, so Apple’s plans may change.

A ‌Apple Car‌ report earlier today Bloomberg said that work on the project is still in the early stages and “far from the production stage”, nor has there been a mention of Hyundai. According Bloomberg, it will take at least five to seven years before an pApple Car‌ is ready to launch.

Update: In a statement to CNBC, Hyundai confirmed which is in discussion with Apple. “We understand that Apple is in discussion with a variety of global automakers, including Hyundai Motor. Since the discussion is in its early stages, nothing has been decided.”