Apple CarPlay Ultra, an ambitious expansion of the popular phone integration system designed to extend its reach from the touchscreen to a vehicle's instrument cluster and control core functions like air conditioning, is encountering significant resistance from automakers. Initially touted by Apple with a list of over a dozen automakers committed to including the software, recent reports confirm that many manufacturers are now opting out or sticking with the standard CarPlay version.

A primary reason for this reluctance is the automakers' desire to maintain creative control over the design and implementation of their infotainment features. Furthermore, there are concerns about relinquishing valuable customer driving habits and vehicle system integration data to a third-party like Apple. An unnamed executive at Renault, one of the automakers previously linked to CarPlay Ultra, reportedly told Apple, "Don't try to invade our own systems."

Of the 18 automakers initially associated with CarPlay Ultra, the Financial Times reports that Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Volvo, Polestar, and Renault are choosing not to integrate the system into their future cars. Volvo confirmed this stance, while Polestar stated they had "nothing to announce" regarding its use. An Audi spokesperson explicitly noted their decision not to integrate CarPlay Ultra, citing the recent introduction of their all-new MMI interface in models like the Q6 e-tron, A5, Q5, and A6 e-tron. Both Volvo and Polestar have also heavily invested in developing their proprietary infotainment systems.

Other automakers previously linked to CarPlay Ultra include Acura, Aston Martin, Ford, Genesis, Honda, Hyundai, Infiniti, Kia, Land Rover, Lincoln, Nissan, and Porsche. While Ford, Lincoln, Acura, Jaguar, and Land Rover spokespeople declined to comment, the Hyundai Motor Group (comprising Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis) confirmed their continued intent to introduce Apple CarPlay Ultra in the future. Honda, Infiniti, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, and Porsche had no official comment as of press time, though Porsche reportedly still plans to support the system.

Despite these challenges, Apple remains confident in CarPlay Ultra. A source familiar with the company's thinking suggested that automakers ultimately adopt technologies their customers love, and they believe customers will embrace CarPlay Ultra. Apple is reportedly working closely with manufacturers to address their concerns and tailor the system to each brand's specific needs. The same source also claimed that all "driving data is all handled by the car, and isn’t shared with your iPhone," though further details on data collection and viewing remained unanswered.

It's worth noting that some major players in the automotive industry, such as Tesla and Rivian, do not offer CarPlay in any form. General Motors is even phasing out CarPlay in favor of a new operating system developed with Google. Currently, Aston Martin is the sole automaker to offer CarPlay Ultra. Reviews of the new system have highlighted its positive features, including Apple gauges, climate and radio controls, and iPhone-like widgets.