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Image: Marc Newson/D. Griffin Jones/Cult of Mac
Apple reportedly collaborated with China’s BYD to develop long-range batteries for EVs. The two companies seemingly partnered around 2017.
Reports emerged at the beginning of this year that Apple canceled its ambitious Car project, putting an end to all research and development efforts.
Apple worked with BYD on long-range EV batteries
Apple invested billions of dollars into its Apple Car project. Given the complexities involved, the company purportedly even considered partnering with another existing car maker for the project. Later, it scaled back its ambitions and worked on developing self-driving technology for cars. Eventually, Apple shut down the project despite pouring billions of dollars into it over several years.
As part of the project, Bloomberg reports Apple teamed up with China’s BYD to develop long-range EV batteries. They were working on building lithium iron phosphate (LFP) cells that would provide higher density while being safer than traditional EV batteries. The report details Apple engineers provided their expertise in advanced battery packs and thermal management. BYD engineers helped with “manufacturing know-how and advancements using lithium iron phosphate cells.”
BYD purportedly first showcased an early version of the Blade battery to Apple executives, which impressed them.
“BYD engineers previewed early versions of the Blade battery to Apple executives, who admired the technology’s safety and energy storage capabilities. Apple ultimately sought customizations that could enhance the range of an EV,” says the Bloomberg report, citing sources.
Apple canceled its Car project earlier this year
BYD’s current EV vehicles stand out for their Blade battery system, with the final version seemingly being influenced by Apple’s partnership. The technology allows its vehicles to provide a longer range at a relatively low manufacturing cost. BYD confirmed that Apple owns no patents or technology for its Blade battery.
Surprisingly, Apple eventually abandoned its BYD partnership and considered using battery options from other companies. Ultimately, though, the company shut down the Apple Car project and laid off over 600+ employees soon after.