Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL) and Chinese automaker BYD (OTCPK:BYDDF) worked secretly for years as part of the technology firm’s now-canceled car project, Bloomberg reported, citing people familiar with the situation.

Apple Inc. worked with Chinese automaker BYD Co. for years as part of its now-canceled car project, developing long-range batteries that helped lay the groundwork for technology used today, according to people familiar with the situation.

Apple's decision to axe its car project shocked everyone, but the failed Apple Car development might have helped BYD become the EV powerhouse it is today

As reported by Bloomberg on Wednesday, Apple has worked closely with Chinese automaker BYD. Both companies reportedly reached an agreement around 2017 to build batteries using lithium iron phosphate cells (LFP). The technology would significantly increase the autonomy of the car and was also considered safer than typical electric vehicle batteries.

Apple and BYD secretly teamed up to create a safer, long-range EV battery system, investing heavily in the project. Despite the partnership's termination due to delays and tough EV economics, the collaboration shaped BYD's current Blade battery system and provided Apple with valuable insights for other products.

Apple secretly collaborated with Chinese automaker BYD to develop long-range electric vehicle battery technology as part of its now-nixed Apple

Apple worked with a Chinese automaker for years to design a battery system for its now-canceled car project. That’s according to Bloomberg, which reports that Apple was collaborating with BYD Co., a Shenzhen-based car company,

Apple and BYD teamed up around 2017 to build a battery system using lithium iron phosphate cells, Bloomberg reported, signaling just how far the iPhone maker went in its efforts to produce a car.

Before the Project Titan was scrapped, Apple reportedly worked with Chinese automaker BYD on custom batteries for Apple Car for years, but ultimately abandoned that partnership too.