Many Automakers Are Unwilling To Integrate Apple CarPlay Ultra.

In May, Apple proudly presented CarPlay Ultra, a new and very extensive version of CarPlay. The idea is that not only the infotainment screen, but also the information screen behind the steering wheel is ‘taken over’ by the Apple system. This can then not only display navigation, music, and other apps on both screens, but can also display and operate all kinds of car functions through far-reaching integration with car systems. This would make it virtually unnecessary to switch between CarPlay and the built-in infotainment of the car itself. Good news for Apple and possibly the user.

The third player in this story, the car manufacturer, is apparently not always looking forward to such far-reaching Apple involvement. According to the Financial Times and Carscoops, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Volvo, Polestar and Renault, among others, have no interest in the system at all, precisely because it goes so far in the ‘takeover’ of the digital environment. “Don’t try to penetrate our own systems,” someone from Renault is said to have told Apple.

It is not surprising that these brands are not so keen on CarPlay Ultra. The German premium brands have invested a lot of money and effort in developing extensive and beautiful systems that fit in well with the style of the brand, and also want to earn money themselves by selling apps and extra functions. Volvo, Polestar and Renault have ‘surrendered’ to Google, which provides the brands with an excellent and extensive infotainment system with app store via Android Automotive. For a smaller brand like Aston Martin, which acts as a ‘launch customer’ for Apple CarPlay Ultra, this extensive telephone connection makes much more sense. Whether enough ‘mainstream’ car brands will follow, time will tell. According to Apple, Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis are working on it.

• Also See: CarPlay Goes Farther Than Ever With Apple’s Introduction Of CarPlay Ultra