Cupertino, California – The realm of concept designers who envisioned the Apple Car diverged from the actuality of the project, which ultimately fizzled out. A new glimpse into Apple’s planned self-driving vehicle suggests a departure from the typical sporty design, leaning more towards a luxurious and spacious interior akin to a private jet, according to reports.
Apple’s vision for Level 5 autonomy without traditional steering wheels or pedals steered the design concept towards a more minivan-like configuration. The emphasis on maximizing interior space to create a comfortable and exclusive environment reminiscent of private jets led Apple’s designers to craft a unique, minimalist interface.
The proposed Apple Car design closely resembled the Canoo Lifestyle Vehicle, featuring a futuristic van aesthetic with rounded edges, dark black windows with adjustable tint, and a sleek, all-glass sunroof. The interior layout allowed for versatility, with seats that could transform from regular chairs to recliners and footrests, accommodating up to four passengers.
Additionally, another design iteration bore a striking resemblance to the 2017 Volkswagen ID Buzz, drawing inspiration from iconic retro designs like the 1950s Volkswagen microbus. This design evolution, internally referred to as “Bread Loaf,” hinted at potential collaborations between Apple and VW as some former Apple employees transitioned to the German automaker’s team in the mid-2010s.
As the Apple Car project faced the reality of Level 5 self-driving technology being unattainable, the design underwent revisions to incorporate traditional elements like steering wheels, pedals, and front-facing seats. The inclusion of Tesla-style gullwing doors in the final design iteration aimed to create a luxurious “lounge on wheels” experience for passengers.
Despite years of investment rumored at billions of dollars annually, Apple eventually decided to halt the ambitious Apple Car project, redirecting its team towards generative AI initiatives. This shift marked the end of a decade-long pursuit of revolutionizing the automotive industry with a groundbreaking autonomous vehicle.