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McLaren denies Apple buyout talks

McLaren has played down reports of Apple looking to heavily invest or buyout the company after news speculated negotiations were imminent.

Yesterday, reports published in the Financial Times newspaper stated Apple's intention to step into the automotive industry with the British supercar maker and Formula 1 team which could see a takeover or financial investment.

A statement from McLaren has duly watered down the news: "We can confirm that McLaren is not in discussion with Apple in respect of any potential investment," a spokesman said to the BBC.

McLaren did also stress it is continually in conversations with a 'wide range of parties' but these talks remain confidential.

In 2015, McLaren changed its registered name from McLaren Group to McLaren Technology Group to bring it into line with its diversifying involvements as Ron Dennis was named as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.

Apple has been developing a self-driving electric car but it is not clear whether the linked takeover would include any McLaren involvement in that particular project.

McLaren's car department has recently launched the 12C (2011) and the P1 sports car (2013) with former McLaren Racing CEO Jonathan Neale the new COO having been appointed earlier this year.

McLaren currently sits sixth in the F1 world constructors' championship and has scored 54 points in the opening 15 races of the season. 

Zdroj: crash.net