McLaren is based in Woking, England and produces only about 1,500 cars a year - but these retail for as much as $1m each. The company has a likely market value of between ?1bn and ?1.5bn according to the FT. Apple's Phil Schiller is a proud McLaren owner. As the FT suggested, "An acquisition of McLaren would be a thrilling sign of intent from the iPhone maker."
A few hours after the rumours started up McLaren sought to dampen them. In a statement to Reuters a McLaren spokesman said "We can confirm that McLaren is not in discussion with Apple in respect of any potential investment." However, he added that McLaren regularly has "confidential conversations with a wide range of parties".
So, if a McLaren deal is off the table, has Apple any other auto-firm negotiations in the pipeline to help kick start its auto-industry penetration attempt? The answer seems to be yes, in the shape of self-balancing motorcycle maker Lit Motors. Three people told the New York Times about this impending deal, on condition of anonymity. Apple has previously hired Lit Motors engineers.
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