Elon Musk recently shared his thoughts on Apple’s potential entry into the electric vehicle market during an interview, emphasizing that he welcomes competition in the industry. Musk acknowledged that the hiring of over a thousand engineers by Apple indicates a serious commitment to developing an electric car, which he believes could be a significant addition to the market.

While Musk does not view Apple as a direct competitor, he recognizes that their efforts will likely expand the electric vehicle sector overall. He stated, “I think it will expand the industry; certainly, Tesla would aspire to still make the most compelling electric vehicles.” In a bid to foster innovation and collaboration within the industry, Musk highlighted Tesla’s initiative to open-source its patents, allowing other companies to utilize their technology for free.

When discussing Google, Musk noted that while they have demonstrated the potential of autonomous transport, they do not operate as a traditional car company. However, he does see Apple as a more direct competitor due to their strategic moves in the automotive sector.

Musk speculated on Apple’s timeline for production, suggesting that the company should have started its project earlier. He estimated that Apple may not reach volume production before 2020, which he considers a missed opportunity. “I think they’ll probably make a good car and probably be successful,” he remarked, affirming a belief in the capabilities of Apple’s engineering.

As the electric vehicle market continues to evolve, Musk’s insights shed light on the dynamics of competition and innovation within the industry, indicating that the arrival of tech giants like Apple could significantly shape the future of transportation.