Henry Ford didn’t invent the automobile. Rather, he took a machine that was merely the interest of curious hobbyists and made it available to everyday Americans.

Does that sound like another household name – Steve Jobs, perhaps?

The co-founder of Apple Inc. (AAPL) didn’t invent the personal computer. He simply took a machine that appealed to a specific niche and made it mainstream.

And ever since, Apple has proven again and again to be more curator than inventor.

It takes an idea, refines and improves it, and creates a premium product that’s accessible to the average consumer.

Apple didn’t invent the first personal music player, tablet computer, or smartphone. But by using its tried and true recipe, it has succeeded in swallowing up significant shares of various markets, all while amassing a cult following and a massive cash hoard along the way.

Following the launch of the iPhone 6S and iPad Pro this past September, rumors began to swirl that the crew at Cupertino has its sights set on an ambitious new project – an electric car.

The rumors stem in large part from three things: Apple’s hiring of several well-known auto experts, a lawsuit with car battery company A123 Systems over poaching employees, and applications for autonomous vehicle testing in California.

Oh, and CNN also reported that Apple plans to release the “iCar” before the end of the decade.

The Rise of the Electric Vehicle

The electric car is becoming the future of the auto industry, and there are huge profits in store for whoever can create an affordable vehicle that appeals to the masses.

Elon Musk, founder of Tesla Motors Inc. (TSLA) – has been compared to Henry Ford as he attempts to build his electric car empire. Other automakers have risen to meet the challenge, too – Chevrolet’s Volt, Nissan’s Leaf, and the BMW i3 are but a few examples.

The electric car’s adoption hasn’t been without a few speed bumps, however.