Gary Zhou 
- 🚗 Apple plans to release its electric vehicle in 2028 with “limited autonomous driving.”
- 🤖 The car will have SAE Level 2 autonomy, similar to Tesla Full Self-Driving, requiring driver supervision.
- ⏳ Apple is taking a more conservative approach, expecting four years to develop the new car.
- 🌐 Previous ambitious plans, including collaborations with Toyota and TSMC, have been scaled back.
- 🚀 The project’s success depends on Apple’s ability to launch with fewer features, or it may be abandoned.
- 📅 Initially launched in 2015, the Apple Car project faced pressure from the Board of Directors for a concrete plan.
- 🔄 Apple’s shift to more realistic expectations is considered a pivotal moment for the project’s future.
In the ever-evolving landscape of electric vehicles, tech giant Apple is gearing up for a significant entry into the market. The latest reports suggest that Apple is set to release its electric vehicle in 2028, ushering in a new era of innovation and competition. Let’s delve into the key details and implications of Apple’s ambitious venture.
A Glimpse into the Future: Limited Autonomous Driving
Apple’s electric vehicle is poised to come equipped with “limited autonomous driving,” according to a recent Bloomberg report. This move positions Apple in the realm of cutting-edge automotive technology, as the company aims to strike a balance between innovation and user safety.
Navigating Autonomy: SAE Level 2 and Driver Supervision
Unlike the initial aspiration for a fully driverless vehicle, Apple has scaled back its expectations. The electric car is projected to feature SAE Level 2 autonomy, a system akin to Tesla’s Full Self-Driving. This level still mandates driver supervision, ensuring that users remain in control of the vehicle while benefiting from steering and brake/acceleration support, lane centering, and adaptive cruise control.
The Roadmap: Conservative Approach and Development Timeline
In a strategic move, Apple is adopting a more conservative approach to the development of its electric vehicle. The company anticipates a four-year timeline to bring the project to fruition. This deliberate pace indicates a meticulous focus on refining the technology and features before introducing them to the market.
Scaling Back Ambitions: Collaborations and Realistic Expectations
Apple’s journey in the electric vehicle space has seen shifts in partnerships and ambitions. Initial plans to collaborate with industry giants like Toyota and chip manufacturer TSMC have been scaled back. The tech giant acknowledges the need for more realistic expectations, a sentiment echoed by its decision to pursue a Level 2 autonomy system.
The Make or Break Moment: Features and Project Viability
The success of Apple’s electric vehicle project hinges on its ability to launch with fewer features. The Bloomberg report highlights that failure to meet this objective could lead to the abandonment of the entire venture. This pivotal moment underscores the delicate balance between innovation and practicality in the fiercely competitive automotive market.
From Inception to Now: The Apple Car’s Evolution
The Apple Car project, initiated in 2015, has witnessed various phases of development and challenges. High-profile recruits, including individuals with experience at Tesla, have come and gone. The Board of Directors has exerted pressure on CEO Tim Cook to solidify the project’s direction or consider shelving it altogether.
Conclusion: Navigating the Curves in the Road
As Apple steers its electric vehicle project towards a 2028 launch, the tech and automotive industries are poised for a transformative impact. The deliberate choices, strategic shifts, and acknowledgment of realistic expectations mark a significant chapter in Apple’s foray into the electric vehicle market.
