The Apple Inc. logo is seen in the lobby of New York City's flagship Apple store January 18, 2011. (Photo : Reuters)
A new report suggests Apple could be making a car of its own. Furthermore, the source reveals this car product could rival Tesla's vehicles.
An Apple employee has confirmed with Business Insider that, indeed, the tech titan is doing some kind of "vehicle development." Whether that refers to a car or a car-related technology could not be confirmed by the site.
But The Mac Observer has learned via a source familiar with the matter that top people in Silicon Valley consider it a given that Apple is working on a car. Asked about how small or big the chance of Apple developing a car-not a car-related tech-is, the source said "80 percent."
The site also notes what Mickey Drexler, J. Crew Group CEO and Apple board member, told Paul Goldberger last year. According to Drexler, Steve Jobs was interested in cars and had wanted to design an iCar.
Apple has not commented on these reports yet. Until it does, take these info with a grain of salt.
Meanwhile, the Business Insider source also confirms reports of Tesla employees going over the fence to work at the iPhone maker. About 50 employees currently working for Apple previously worked at Tesla, according to a LinkedIn search.
These new hires specialize in mechanics, robotics and manufacturing. These are areas most suited to cars, according to The Mac Observer.
"Apple's latest project is too exciting to pass up," the Apple employee said. "I think it will change the landscape and give Tesla a run for its money."
Add to that the Bloomberg report saying the new hires are given $250,000 signing bonuses and huge salary hikes.
On the other hand, Tesla has also been doing its own recruitment of Apple's employees. According to Bloomberg, the electric car maker has hired around 150 Apple employees so far.
