Jan 8 2021
Following the news that Hyundai has confirmed it is in early talks with Apple to establish a partnership to develop and produce electric vehicles and related batteries, Calum MacRae, Automotive Analyst at GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company, offers his view.
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Calum MacRae, Automotive Analyst at GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company, offers his view:
"Apple follows an outsourcing manufacturing model on its products, so a partnership with a vehicle maker could be a very good fit - Hyundai could help with vehicle engineering and production.
"Hyundai is also moving forward on autonomous vehicle tech through its 'Motional' joint venture with Aptiv, which could also be a big plus.
"Apple though is likely to be guarded about its plans. In its mission to embed itself in our lives, Apple clearly feels it has to address the automotive space but is taking care not to rush things. Execution and design excellence are key to the brand.
"Where Apple excels is in product design and system integration, both of the technology ecosystem and the supply chain. This puts Apple in a strong position to succeed with an iCar. After all, the traditional automotive vehicle maker strengths have always been in design and supply chain management. Where they are now scrabbling is to get a handle on, and owning, the integration of the technology ecosystem.
"And that's exactly where Apple sits ready to pounce with its iOS ready to plug and play."