Apple’s Project Titan standalone EV project recently made headlines due to rumors that it could be built on a platform developed by Hyundai and its subsidiary Kia. However, the potential business has gone from “close” to “paused” very quickly, and now automakers say they are no longer in negotiations with Apple, according to Bloomberg.
Hyundai reportedly supplied the electric vehicle platform built in North America for the Titan Project, while Apple reportedly developed the vehicle’s hardware and software. Hyundai confirmed that the talks have taken place, although it has circumvented somewhat, saying that “we understand that Apple is in discussion with a variety of global car manufacturers, including Hyundai Motors”.
Production was due to start in 2024, according to a report by the Korea IT News, so the latest development is a disappointment. Apple’s famous privacy is a breeding ground for rumors, especially about a product as potentially important as a standalone EV.
It is possible that companies have decided to keep trading low and can still restart. Apple also spoke to six Japanese automakers, according to a recent Nikkei report. However, analyst Ming-chi Kuo, who has a good record of Apple rumors, recently said Apple Insider that Apple still plans to use Hyundai’s E-GMP platform for its first EV, with Kia making the vehicle in the United States before 2025.