Apple could be preparing to set up self-driving tests near Phoenix

PHOENIX — Car bloggers at Jalopnik reported that Apple could be preparing to lease proving grounds near Phoenix to test self-driving vehicles.

The online story said the tech giant was possibly leasing the Fiat-Chrysler Proving Grounds in Surprise. The West Valley city bought the 5,500 acres from automaker Chrysler in 2006.

The story cited an unnamed source who said Apple, which has strong ties to Arizona that includes a data command center for global networks in Mesa, had been recruiting engineers and technicians from various testing grounds in the state.

Fiat Chrysler had owned the site close to Wittmann before selling to housing developers about 12 years ago. The plan was to build over 30,000 homes.

The facility was used to test vehicle exposure to sun, among other things.

(Google Maps)

The Valley has become a go-to spot for trial runs of self-driving platforms.

Waymo has been sending driverless vehicles onto Chandler streets for months, and recently expanded testing to include no one in the front seat at all. Previous driving had been with someone behind the wheel without no hands on the steering wheel.

Uber launched similar testing in metro Phoenix in the spring.

General Motors, Ford and Intel also have run self-driving tests in the Valley.

Apple hasn’t commented on the report.

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