Apple is rumoured to be collaborating with BMW on an operating system for a future iteration of its i3 electric car, Digital Spy reports.

German publication Auto Motor Sport reports that the vehicle's software will allow it to communicate and exchange data with an iOS device, Apple Watch or Mac.

The magazine also claimed that BMW is making an electric car for Apple, but a representative for the automaker later denied the rumour in an interview with Reuters.

However, the spokesperson did confirm that the company holds "regular talks" with Apple on "topics like connected vehicles".

The two firms recently collaborated on the BMW i Remote App for Apple Watch, which allows motorists to monitor vehicle range, battery level, and estimated charge time remaining on the wearable device.

Apple's first step into the automotive industry began with its in-car dashboard system CarPlay, which launched last year.