Apple said to show interest in automotive testing facility

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) - Adding fuel to rumors Apple is working on designs for a car, local officials say engineers for the giant tech company recently made inquiries about a former navy base that's been converted into a testing ground for self-driving cars and other cutting-edge vehicles.

An official with the Contra Costa Transportation Authority says the giant tech company hasn't said what kind of testing it hopes to conduct at the decommissioned base in Concord, east of San Francisco. The agency is promoting the base and its 20 miles of closed roads as an ideal test facility for new automotive technology.

Apple declined comment Friday. Despite recurring reports Apple is interested in building its own car, the tech giant has never confirmed any plans.