Apple and BMW stalled their negotiations on Apple Electric Car Project again; talks could resume later

Apple has reportedly put its negotiations with BMW on hold for its upcoming Electric car project and according to some unconfirmed reports, the two companies might resume their negotiations later. However, a particular time frame for further negotiations has not yet been revealed by either parties. The reason behind the inconclusive negotiation process appears to be the discrepancies between the two companies.

Apple was reportedly in talks with BMW to use the carbon fiber body of i3 for its upcoming electric car. However, latest reports suggest that both the companies have reportedly stalled their negotiations after Apple’s CEO Tim Cook and other Apple executives had recently visited the car’s manufacturing facility in Leipzig, Germany.

According to a report on Reuters, negotiations between Apple and BMW might resume “at a later stage”. The report also mentioned that the negotiations between the two companies came to an end without conclusion as the Cupertino based tech giant is apparently inclined towards the idea of developing its own passenger car. Meanwhile, BMW is also being meticulous when it comes to revealing information on its production know-how as it is not willing to become a mere supplier to Apple.

BMW i3, currently offers over 80 miles in between charges and besides that it also features an optional petrol-powered range extender for longer journeys. As per Manager Magazin, BMW is also likely to come up with a new model that would sport a “significantly larger electric range.”

Reports on Apple’s interest in the i3 for its electric car had surfaced earlier. Some automotive magazines had reported about Apple’s intention to strike a deal with BMW in March, as per a report on Techno Buffalo. Apple and BMW started their negotiations last fall but soon after that there was no further progress on this initiative, reported Manager Magazin. Now, after the recent visit done by Tim Cook and Apple Executives at the BMW manufacturing unit, the talks between the two companies have been stalled again.

Recently, Apple was reportedly in plans to increase its research and development (R&D)by spending $1.5 billion this year, as per a Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filing. Meanwhile, the Cupertino based tech giant is also planning to cut back on its capital expenditure. As a result, by end of September, the R&D budget will increase 34 percent to $5.9 billion, according to a report on Bidness Etc.

The company has recently hired Doug Betts, who previously served as the head of global quality at Fiat Chrysler Automobiles. According to a report on Wall Street Journal, Apple had hired former Ford executive Steve Zadesky to lead the Apple’s electric car project and recently, the company also got self-driving car researcher, Paul Furgale on board.

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