Apple Car Full Self-Driving capabilities could see a significant cutback as Cupertino is reportedly planning a 2026 launch
Apple’s fabled electric car has been in the news for years at this point. From Cupertino allegedly reforming its Project Titan team to claims that the company may partner with a car manufacturer to bring its dream to fruition, speculation has been high about the future and capabilities of Apple Car. Now a new report from Bloomberg suggests that Apple’s first production EV may not have extensive Full Self-Driving (FSD) features when it first launches.
Per the outlet, Apple has significantly cut back on planned features for its debut EV as the company has now pushed the release date back to 2026. FSD will reportedly see a big reduction in scope. Apple is now only targeting FSD for use on highways/freeways, claims Bloomberg. Similarly, the company could also outfit the vehicle with a traditional steering wheel and pedals.
The new information is in contrast to a previous report by Bloomberg that suggested an EV built around the concept of hands-off driving, eliminating the need for a steering wheel and pedals.
Furthermore, according to Cupertino’s alleged plans, Apple Car drivers will be free to do other things in the vehicle while the EV is in FSD mode. The EV will then supposedly notify the drivers when they need to take control of the car.
Finally, Bloomberg thinks that Apple could launch the vehicle for less than US$100,000 which disparages a past rumor that had the EV costing more.
Source(s)
Bloomberg, Reuters, Teaser image: iPhoneWired