Apple has bought troubled self-driving startup drive.ai.
For years, Apple has been speculated to be working on an electric, autonomous vehicle project, code name Project Titan. Apple has never made a public statement regarding the project but the purchase of drive.ai signals the firm’s dream for a self-driving vehicle still live.
The startup, once valued at US$ 200 million, operates out of Arlington, Texas with its on-demand ride-hailing service; customers get to use any of a fleet of autonomous vans.
The vans are modified versions of the Nissan NV200. Their operations are restricted within specific regions such as near popular attractions and sports arenas.
Users can catch a free ride on the vans through the drive.ai mobile app, or from a local kiosk located in the service area.
Prior to the acquisition by Apple, Drive.ai was planning to layoff its 90 employees and close shop this coming Friday.
Details about the acquisition are not yet public; it is unclear as to whether the 90 will be retained.
