Apple interrupts talks about electric cars with Hyundai and Kia

Multiple rumors over the past week have suggested that Apple has discussed Apple’s car production with Hyundai and Hyundai subsidiary Kia, but those talks have recently been interrupted, reports Bloomberg.

Apple has also discussed its Apple Car plans with other carmakers, so despite rumors that Apple is considering a deal with Hyundai / Kia, Apple could sign an agreement with another company. Nikkei said earlier today that Apple spoke with at least six Japanese automakers about supply partnerships and manufacturing contributions.

Earlier this week, CNBC said Apple nearly finalized a deal with Kia. Apple’s talks with Hyundai have been known since early January, when Hyundai confirmed it had held talks with Apple.

“We understand that Apple is in talks with a large number of global automakers, including Hyundai Motor. As the discussion is still in its early stages, nothing has been decided yet,” the company said. Several hours later, Hyundai withdrew the statement and deleted the reference to Apple.

Hyundai’s announcement and other detailed rumors about Apple’s negotiations with the automaker have upset Apple. According to Bloomberg, it is not clear if and when talks between Apple and Hyundai can resume, but there are a limited number of automakers that would be able to produce vehicles for Apple.

If talks resume, it is likely that Apple will eventually work with Kia to produce the ‌Apple Car Amerikaanse at Kia’s US factory in Georgia.

Apple has some time to flesh out its manufacturing and production plans as Bloomberg In a previous report said it will take five to seven years for Apple Car to be ready for launch.