Apple sources have revealed that the Cupertino giant has reached out to several companies regarding the production of the Apple Car, an electric vehicle bearing the company's name, with an EV startup called Canoo. Different companies have been in talks with Apple but recent revelations have shown that Canoo was one of the top choices of the company.
The world's most valuable technology company, Apple, has its intentions revealed to create their version of electric vehicles which is expected to launch or reveal itself in three to four years. However, the EV venture of the company would not be solo, as it aims to partner up with different companies for the design and production of the next-gen car.
The Apple Car faced many rumors with its release, with the first and earliest suggesting that it has been brewing in the past years and is ready for a 2021 release. However, Ming-Chi Kuo, a trusted Apple analyst, revealed that the company would more likely reveal the Apple Car in 2024 or 2025, with recent leaks supporting the speculations as Apple has not yet secured a partner.
Apple Car Collaboration with Canoo
According to The Verge's report, an electric vehicle startup company called "Canoo" was approached by Apple in 2020 regarding the Apple Car venture that would soon arrive in public. Relatively, the company is starting and that kind of affiliation with a well-known company would earn the reputation and revenue at an early stage.
Canoo's "skateboard" EV platform was the primary reason why Apple took an interest in the electric vehicle startup because of the technology it possesses and aims to feature. The EV technology is unique to Canoo and is not widely used by the car industry, particularly in clean energy cars.
Who is Canoo and What is the 'Skateboard' EV Technology Platform?
Canoo is the former startup known as "Evelozcity," which was founded in 2017 and only changed name last 2019. The company is based in Torrance, California (near LA), and was established by entrepreneurs Li Botan and David Stern.
The company's initial focus is to manufacture affordable and commercial electric vehicles for everyday use, also sharing the side goal of affordable rental service vehicles featuring the same technology. Canoo already has prototypes for an electric minivan and an MPDV, also known as a multi-purpose delivery vehicle.
Additionally, the company has more plans for creating a sedan and a delivery pickup for commercial availability and sale. The popular "skateboard" platform is the company's take on electric vehicles that features highly flexible electronics, which can help in better customization of the cabin.
The steer-by-wire technology also possesses flexibility for design and other purposes, which most companies have not yet adapted.
Would Canoo Partner with Apple for the Apple Car?
The Verge's report said that Canoo was only interested in receiving an investment from Apple, and not working with or for them in the Apple Car venture. Canoo has other plans for its brands and production, not including Apple on its list.
This article is owned by Tech Times
Written by Isaiah Alonzo
