Megatrends such as autonomy, digitalization and electrification as well as socio-cultural factors such as sustainability are forcing design leaders to think far beyond the car’s shape, comfort and colors.

Batteries are expensive and difficult to ship so if the UK does not establish battery plants quickly, it will lose its vehicle manufacturers to countries where batteries are produced locally.

If Apple builds an electric car, it is likely to be a premium model, but displacing automakers such as Mercedes will not be be straightforward.

If Apple is seriously considering its own vehicle then it will likely decide to outsource production, as it does with its iPhone.