Another day, another Apple car report.
Rumours of an Apple Car are not dead. Since the 2015 report, we have seen and heard all of it. However, the Cupertino-based tech company has yet to provide us with an Apple product we can drive or ride on.
This latest one is about a former Chrysler testing ground just outside Phoenix, Arizona. MacRumors states that Route 14 Investment Partners LLC is buying the Wittmann proving ground, which covers over 5,000 acres, from its lessee.
Although the connection between Route 14, Apple, and Route 14 is not yet established, many believe that the tech giant is behind Route 14 and is trying to hide its identity. MacRumors reports that the purchase contract was signed on June 25, 2021. We can infer that Route 14’s whoever behind it needs it for a long time, even though no concrete connection to Apple has been found.
Arizona is the right place to test and develop the autonomous Apple Car. Since 2015, the Grand Canyon State has been a preferred spot for testing and developing autonomous vehicles. Arizona Governor Doug Ducey signed an executive order. Doug Ducey signed an executive order allowing for testing and piloting self-driving vehicles on certain public roads.
The tech giant has reportedly re-engaged with Toyota to make a possible deal for the Apple Car. According to the report, Apple met with the Japanese automaker to discuss a possible partnership. The goal is to create the first production vehicle in 2024.
As usual, details are sparse so it remains to be seen if this partnership will bear fruit in the near future. Apple had previously contacted Nissan and Hyundai, but without success.