Benzinga | Mar 19, 2021 10:05AM EDT

Apple Supplier Foxconn In Talks To Make Batteries, EV Parts With Vietnam's VinFast: Report

Taiwanese contract manufacturer and major Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) supplier Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd. (OTC:HNHPF) is making rapid moves in furthering its electric vehicle ambitions.

What Happened: Hon Hai, popularly known as Foxconn, and Vietnamese conglomerate Vingroup unit VinFast are engaged in exploratory talks regarding forging a partnership to develop batteries and EV parts, Reuters reported, citing sources familiar with the matter.

While Foxconn is looking to acquire EV production lines owned by VinFast, the latter is keen on striking a partnership, the report said.

VinFast, which has the distinction of being the first fully domestic car manufacturer in Vietnam, reportedly received proposals from Foxconn, although nothing is concrete yet. VinFast also makes electric motorbikes and buses.

Related Link: Apple Supplier Foxconn, Geely Partner On Automotive Contract Manufacturing Services

Why It's Important: Foxconn has made several moves in recent times to dip its heel into the lucrative EV market. Most recently, the company said it is contemplating setting up EV manufacturing facility either in Wisconsin, where it already has a plant, or in Mexico.

The company has stitched up several partnerships, including Stellantis N.V. (NYSE:STLA), China's Byton and Fisker Inc. (NYSE:FSR) to manufacture EVs. It also has a relationship with Chinese automaker Geely Automobile Holdings Limited (OTC:GELYF) to provide production and consulting services to global automotive enterprises.

Related Link: Potential Partners For An Apple Car Grow In Number, With Nissan The Latest To Express Interest