Volkswagen CEO isn’t afraid of Apple’s future EV

Volkswagen CEO Herbert Diess says he isn’t intimidated by Apple’s future Electric Vehicle (EV). The German automaker is a well-established brand in the global market that also produces electric vehicles of its own. It also has plans to make an electric self-driving car of its own and isn’t fazed by Apple’s possible entry into the segment.

Diess stated in an interview with German newspaper Frankfurter Allegemeine that the Californian tech company will not be able to take over the segment overnight. He also added that it will take time for Apple to establish itself in the automotive industry, especially in the EV sector. 

While Apple has yet to confirm that it is actually working on an EV, Diess believes that the tech company has what it takes to make one. He cites that it already has the expertise to do so especially in the battery technology, software, and design sector. While Apple’s supply chain isn’t positioned towards cars, it can easily partner with an automaker to make its goal of an EV happen, says the Volkswagen CEO. 

Rumors have already circulated that Apple has eyed Hyundai, Kia, and Nissan as possible future partners. These automakers have the know-how and the technology on-hand to produce an EV with a short development cycle. Hyundai already has established electric and hybrid vehicles in its lineups such as the Hyundai Ioniq and the Hyundai Kona, however, it has denied rumors of Apple approaching it for a partnership. Kia has also denied the rumors of a possible tie-up with the tech company. The same can be said for Nissan, as the Japanese brand was approached by Apple but has since rejected the offer due to branding concerns. Other options are still on the table for the iPhone maker as it eyes other possible candidates such as Foxconn and the Stellantis automotive group of companies.