Apple delays release of its electric car until 2028: It will not have fully self-driving system

Apple has scaled back its ambitions for the release of the hypothetical Apple Car. While the initial plan was to launch a fully autonomous vehicle, Apple is now focusing on developing an electric car with an advanced driver-assistance system. Additionally, Apple has once again pushed back the project timeline, according to reports from Bloomberg.

The new emphasis for Apple is on driver-assistance features resembling Tesla's Autopilot (Level 2+ system). Level 2 autonomous driving includes support for steering control, braking, and acceleration, but the driver retains control of the vehicle and must remain attentive.

The launch schedule for the Apple Car has been revised. Apple initially aimed to unveil the car around 2026, but the current plan is not to release it before 2028. Bloomberg reports that this marks a "turning point" for the Apple Car project. If the company cannot deliver an electric vehicle with the intended features, the project's existence may be "seriously reconsidered" by the leadership.

Since the inception of the Apple Car project in 2014, it has undergone several changes and developments. Rumors circulated that Apple had abandoned the idea of manufacturing a car altogether, focusing instead on an autonomous driving system. However, it appears that Apple is still committed to the goal of producing a complete vehicle.

Kevin Lynch, the head of Apple Watch, has taken charge of the project and worked with Tim Cook to adopt a new strategy following pressure from Apple's board of directors. Apple is currently in talks with potential partners in Europe to discuss the new plan.