According to foreign media reports, after an initial visit in the summer of 2021, representatives of Apple visited South Korea again in December last year and met with local suppliers. It is reported that Apple is looking for a group of auto parts manufacturers with mass production experience to provide core components for its cars.
Apple's interest in South Korean auto parts suppliers has sparked a fierce battle for a place in Apple's supply chain. It is reported that some suppliers have even set up a "task force" (Task Force), to respond positively to Apple's request. Apple has provided equity investment to at least one local parts maker in exchange for doubling production capacity, according to people familiar with the matter.
Apple's discussions with South Korean suppliers are still at an early stage, so suppliers have yet to get exact information about vehicle specifications. Even so, suppliers are aware of the need to keep Apple's car projects secret, fearing that leaks could lead to Apple's exclusion from the supplier candidate list.
After interviews with some suppliers, Apple plans to continue discussions through online meetings. Apple is expected to select auto parts suppliers by the end of 2022, and then begin full development, public car-building projects and mass production in the next two to three years.
In addition, Apple is also interested in South Korea's battery production capacity and discussed the development and production of electric vehicle batteries with LG, SK and other companies. It is reported that Apple has been advocating the direct development and production of Apple car battery materials, and requires strict secrecy. Some battery suppliers turned down opportunities to work with Apple because of Apple's demand for a high degree of control.
