The Apple Car project, once shrouded in secrecy, has advanced further than the public realized, as new details reveal ongoing battery development efforts despite the project’s cancellation. According to a recent report by Bloomberg, Apple has been working with Chinese automaker BYD for nearly seven years on developing electric vehicle (EV) batteries using lithium iron phosphate (LFP) chemistry. This collaboration aimed to create batteries that offer greater range and safety compared to the widely used lithium-ion technology.

Apple and BYD’s Battery Partnership: Unveiling the Details

The report highlights that the partnership between Apple and BYD has operated independently, with Apple’s 50-member engineering team based in Cupertino, led by Alexander Hitzinger. Meanwhile, BYD’s Vice President Michael He has been overseeing the development efforts from China. The initiative was a significant focus for Apple, emphasizing the role of batteries as a crucial component in the EV industry.

Cancellation of Apple Car and the Evolution of Battery Development

Earlier this year, it was disclosed that Apple had scrapped its plans for the Apple Car due to concerns about the project’s feasibility. However, before the termination of Project Titan, the company had made substantial progress in battery development in collaboration with BYD. The two companies eventually parted ways, with Apple shifting its focus toward exploring alternative battery cell suppliers.

The Apple Car was envisioned as a fully autonomous electric vehicle, designed to operate without a steering wheel or a driver. Nonetheless, the project encountered multiple setbacks along the way, leading to considerations of scaling back the autonomy features for an earlier launch.

Project Titan and the Vision for Autonomous Vehicles

Rumors surrounding Apple’s secretive “Project Titan” have circulated for over a decade, with claims that the company aimed to build an advanced electric vehicle to rival automakers like Tesla. Analysts and insiders suggested that Apple was developing the project from scratch, with an anticipated first iteration set for a 2026 release, although the initial version was not expected to deliver a fully autonomous experience.

Challenges in Securing Automotive Partnerships

Apple explored partnerships with established automakers, including Hyundai, Kia, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz, to manufacture the vehicle. Despite these efforts, no solid collaborations materialized. The development of Project Titan faced additional challenges, including high-profile departures of key executives and concerns about potential technology leaks.

While reports earlier this year suggested that Apple had officially pulled the plug on Project Titan, the discussions and strategic planning around the future of Apple’s automotive ambitions appear to be ongoing. The company’s long-standing work with BYD underscores its commitment to advancing battery technology, even as the fate of the Apple Car remains uncertain.