Apple is in talks with the automaker BMW Group about the possibility of using electric vehicle BMW i3 as the basis for your own car, “Apple” company. This writes the German resource Manager Magazin.
The message about the negotiations with the Bavarian automaker came amid continuing rumors that Apple intends to launch its own vehicle and become a direct competitor to Tesla, Honda, Nissan and other auto brands. According to the information resource, American Corporation develops minivan using electric propulsion. Reuters clarified that under the brand Apple may see unmanned electric vehicle.
According to a source, the head of Apple, along with several top managers of the Corporation met with representatives of BMW in Leipzig, Germany. During the trip they visited the shop for the Assembly of electric vehicles BMW i3. Apple, as noted, were particularly interested in the plastic body reinforced with carbon fiber frame of the vehicle.
The BMW i3, which is technically a five-door hatchback, there is no Central strut, and smaller Windows in the rear doors open opposite to the motion. In motion it causes rear-side synchronous electric motor with recoil 170 HP and 250 N•m. It is considered one of the most advanced units of its kind. The unit is able to recruit hundreds of places at 2.8 and drive on a single charge of about 500 km.
In early July, BMW announced the possibility of holding talks with Apple on the use of software and hardware in their products, however, denied the information about the joint work on the car.
According to rumors, Apple intends to launch production of electric vehicles in 2020. Project cars, developed in high secrecy, was approved by the company’s CEO Tim cook about a year ago. Typically, automakers take up to 7 years to create a new model.
