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As of 2022, Elon Musk had expressed his openness to merger invitations, but with a unique condition – he would only consider joining a company if offered the position of CEO. This condition became a pivotal factor in a potential deal with tech giant Apple, which sought to acquire Tesla.
Apple’s Ambitious Move to Acquire Tesla
In late 2020, Elon Musk confirmed that he had reached out to Tim Cook to discuss the possibility of Apple acquiring Tesla during the challenging days of developing the Model 3. Musk claimed that Cook declined the proposal.
Later, Cook reportedly suggested that Apple could buy Tesla, sparking Musk’s interest. However, Musk set a significant condition for the deal – he would become not only the CEO of Tesla but also the CEO of the entire Apple corporation. Both Cook and Musk deny engaging in such discussions officially.
Tesla’s Potential Integration into Apple and Musk’s CEO Ambitions
Sources familiar with the negotiations revealed that Apple engaged in talks with Elon Musk regarding the acquisition of Tesla. Musk’s condition of becoming the CEO of both Tesla and Apple posed a unique challenge to the potential deal. The negotiations eventually reached an impasse, leading Apple to reconsider its strategy.
Apple’s Vision for Apple Car: A Steering-Wheel-Free Experience with Siri
Insights from The New York Times shed light on Apple’s initial plans for the Apple Car, revealing a visionary concept where the vehicle would not feature a traditional steering wheel. Instead, Siri, Apple’s virtual assistant, was intended to take complete control of the vehicle.
The Demise of the Apple Car Project: A Decade-Long Journey Ends
After more than a decade of development, the Apple Car project officially met its end. The decision came following Apple’s shift in strategy, opting for the creation of its own vehicle rather than acquiring and integrating another business, like Tesla.
User and Industry Reactions to Apple’s Shift in Focus
Upon the revelation that Apple had abandoned its pursuit of autonomous electric vehicles, there was a swift and intense reaction from users and leaders across major companies. The shift in focus raised questions about Apple’s long-term vision for the automotive industry and its commitment to disruptive innovation.
The Unfulfilled Merger and the End of Apple’s Car Aspirations
The failed negotiations between Elon Musk and Apple, coupled with the demise of the ambitious Apple Car project, mark a significant chapter in the intersection of technology and automotive industries. Musk’s unwavering conditions and Apple’s strategic shift underscore the complexities of merging two tech giants, leaving the possibilities of future collaborations uncertain.*
