Apple in talks with Chinese suppliers about upcoming electric vehicle

Apple plans to launch the electric vehicle in 2024

Apple is in early-stage talks with Chinese battery suppliers for its planned self-driving electric vehicle, Reuters reports.

The tech giant has made building manufacturing facilities in the US a condition for the potential battery suppliers CATL and BYD.

CATL and BYD

However, there is evidence to suggest CATYL is reluctant to build a electric vehicle factory in the US. This comes amid rising political tensions between China and the West. CATYL also supplies many other major carmakers including Tesla.

As global demand for electric vehicles grows, experts believe that China will take the lead on electric vehicle battery development.

Reuters reported last week that CATL is planning a new automotive battery plant in Shanghai.

Apple’s electric vehicle tech

Experts say that Apple’s electric vehicle may even feature its own breakthrough battery technology. However, Apple has declined to comment on the matter.

The discussions come at a time when the US government is looking to attract more EV manufacturing. US President Joe Biden’s proposed $1.7 trillion infrastructure plan includes a $174bn budget to boost the domestic EV market with tax credits and grants for battery manufacturers, among other incentives.

Many battery makers are ramping up production to meet soaring worldwide demand as car makers accelerate their shift to electric vehicles to comply with tougher emission rules aimed at tackling global warming.