Apple’s long pursuit of the ideal self-driving car has faced a significant challenge. This has prompted the tech giant to adjust its goals and strategy.
As a result, Apple is simplifying the design and delaying the launch of its upcoming electric vehicle, marking another setback in the company’s continuous efforts to introduce an autonomous EV to the market.
The Apple electric car initiative, called Project Titan Codenamed T172, started in 2014 but has faced delays and changes in Leadership. Initially aiming for a fully autonomous vehicle without a steering wheel, recent years have seen a shift in ambitions.
Under the guidance of Apple VP Kevin Lynch since 2021, the company has announced a new release date for its first vehicle 2028, as reported by Bloomberg.
The release of the vehicle has been pushed back to at least 2028, as reported by Bloomberg. The previously targeted release year of 2026 was also the result of a delay.
Apple is now focusing on developing the electric vehicle with reduced features, scaling down from the initial plan of an autonomous vehicle without pedals or a steering wheel.
Despite almost a decade of developing self-driving technology, Apple acknowledges that its initial vision of a steering wheel-free car is not feasible.
According to Bloomberg, the 2028 Apple car will have limited autonomous features, similar to Tesla and other electric vehicles.
Drivers will need to remain attentive and ready to take control, reflecting a Level 2+ (Partially automated) autonomy system, shifting from Project Titan’s initial aim of Level 4 autonomy (Fully automated).
If Apple can launch its electric vehicle by 2028, it is expected to have functionality similar to Tesla’s Autopilot, requiring drivers to stay seated and monitor the road, ready to take control if necessary.
The vehicle has been under development since 2014, but official details about its name, specifications, and development have been scarce in the last decade.
Only time will tell if Apple’s adjusted strategy can make Project Titan successful. The path ahead is sure to have its share of challenges.