Why Top Automakers Are Saying No to CarPlay Ultra

Apple’s bold vision for the future of in-car infotainment, CarPlay Ultra, is facing unexpected resistance from the very industry it seeks to modernize. Launched in 2022 with backing from 14 automakers—including heavyweights like Mercedes-Benz, Audi, and Volvo—CarPlay Ultra promised to revolutionize dashboard design by taking over every screen in the car. But as production draws closer, many manufacturers are quietly stepping away.

Why Are Automakers Pushing Back?

The resistance comes down to control. Unlike standard CarPlay, which limits itself to the central infotainment screen, CarPlay Ultra takes over all digital displays in a vehicle, including the instrument cluster with speedometers, navigation, and climate settings. That full-system integration has carmakers worried.

They fear losing their grip on the customer experience—and more importantly, their ability to generate in-car revenue. Features like navigation subscriptions, voice assistants, and connected services have become valuable income streams. With CarPlay Ultra in the driver’s seat, those streams could be diverted.

Audi, Volvo, and Renault Say No

According to the Financial Times, Audi has officially rejected CarPlay Ultra. Renault, Polestar, and Volvo have also stated they won’t integrate the system into their upcoming vehicles.

In a particularly blunt message to Apple, a Renault executive reportedly said, “Don’t try to invade our own systems.”

Mercedes-Benz Made Its Position Clear

Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Källenius was one of the first to express skepticism. Speaking on The Vergecast podcast earlier this year, Källenius confirmed that Mercedes will not adopt CarPlay Ultra, opting instead to develop its in-house operating system.

Who’s Still on Apple’s Side?

Not all automakers are pulling back. Hyundai and its subsidiaries Kia and Genesis are moving forward with support for CarPlay Ultra. So is Porsche. Luxury automaker Aston Martin has gone even further—it’s already shipping vehicles with CarPlay Ultra integration.

The Fence-Sitters: Ford, Nissan, Jaguar Land Rover

Several brands remain undecided. Ford and Nissan have yet to declare their stance, while Jaguar Land Rover says it is still evaluating Apple’s offering. BMW, on the other hand, has confirmed it will stick with standard CarPlay and avoid the Ultra version entirely.

Apple Isn’t Backing Down

Despite the resistance, Apple remains confident. The company told Financial Times that it continues to work closely with automakers to deliver a seamless blend of iPhone features and vehicle integration.

“We’re collaborating closely with automakers to provide the best of the iPhone and the best of the car,” an Apple spokesperson said.

Apple’s CarPlay Ultra promises a unified and immersive digital driving experience, but that same promise has automakers on edge. Whether Apple can win them back—or if it will need to change its strategy—remains to be seen.

Would you want your entire car dashboard powered by Apple? Drop your thoughts in the comments below.

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