- Apple shocks industry by halting its ambitious electric car project, leaving 2,000 employees in limbo.
- Did you know? Apple once considered buying Tesla, but talks faltered over Elon Musk’s CEO condition.
- Project Titan’s demise sees employees transition to Apple’s AI division, signaling a shift in focus.
In a surprising turn of events, Apple has decided to abandon its decade-long endeavor to develop an AI-powered smart car, leaving behind its highly anticipated Project Titan. Initially envisioned to rival Tesla, this project employed over 2,000 individuals who were working tirelessly on shaping the future of transportation. However, Apple’s strategic shift has left many in the industry stunned.
Interestingly, reports reveal that Apple was once in discussions to acquire Tesla back in 2015 when the EV maker was on the brink of bankruptcy. Elon Musk proposed the acquisition to Tim Cook, with a condition for Musk to become the new Apple CEO. However, Cook declined the meeting, ultimately leading to the breakdown of talks. Despite engaging with Musk on the acquisition, Apple ultimately opted to develop its own smart car.
Initially planning for a Siri-controlled car without a steering wheel or pedals, Apple’s foray into the electric vehicle market faced numerous hurdles and eventually met its end. The decision to transition employees to the company’s AI division reflects Apple’s renewed focus on innovation and competition in the tech industry. As Apple redirects its efforts towards AI, industry experts speculate on the company’s future endeavors and its potential to compete on a platform level in the AI space.
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) February 27, 2024
