Hyundai backed away from a statement confirming it is in talks with Apple on developing a self-driving car that fueled an US$8-billion surge in the Korean automaker’s market value Friday, saying instead that it received requests for potential cooperation from a number of companies.
By naming Apple initially, Hyundai risks the ire of the technology giant known for its secretiveness when it comes to new products and partnerships. With development work still at an early stage, Apple will take at least half a decade to launch an autonomous electric vehicle, people with knowledge of the efforts have told Bloomberg News. That suggests the company is in no hurry to decide on potential auto-industry partners.
“We’ve been receiving requests for potential cooperation from various companies regarding development of autonomous EVs,” the latest version said. “No decisions have been made as discussions are in early stage.”