Inside sources have indicated that US tech powerhouse Apple may be planning on a partnership with Chinese firms CATL and BYD to supply batteries for its planned electric vehicle. The sources say that talks have already begun between the three companies, although it is believed that no concrete agreements have been reached yet. The news further shows that Apple is indeed moving ahead in its plans for an Apple-produced electric vehicle.
Apple will likely settle for lithium iron phosphate batteries, which are cheaper to produce due to their composition. Apple has put in some prerequisites for potential battery supplies for its vehicle. The companies must have manufacturing capacity in the United States, although CATL is yet to have any manufacturing plant in the US. It is a major supplier to some heavy hitters in the industry, including Tesla. Amidst the growing tensions between Washington and Beijing, CATL is reluctant to set up shop in the US, as it fears it may be caught in the political crossfire. In addition, the inside source also indicated that cost considerations might also prevent CATL from manufacturing from the US.
CATL is a global leader in automotive battery production, while BYD is the world’s fourth-largest automotive battery maker. Apple may also discuss with other battery manufacturers before it decides on the preferred supplier of batteries for its EV.
Apple hopes to meet its target date of producing its self-driving passenger vehicle, and the company may also have its designs for a battery for its vehicles. This could mean that a potential partnership with any battery maker is for the possible production of an Apple-designed battery.
The global auto market is fast evolving with a major shift towards electric vehicles even by many traditional automakers. The demand for important components like automotive batteries is fast-growing and current manufacturers like CATL and BYD are expanding their capacity to meet this demand.
RELATED:
- Here’s the official list of Apple devices eligible for iOS 15, iPadOS 15, watchOS 8, and macOS Monterey
- Apple will not launch Privacy Relay in China due to local regulations
- Apple watchOS 8 brings support for Ultra-wideband technology & several new features
(source)
