Apple CEO Tim Cook may have just dropped a subtle hint that his company is planning to launch an electric car in the future, Digital Spy reports.

Amid intense rumours that the iPhone maker will branch out into motors within the next five years, Cook has predicted "massive" changes in the automotive industry.

"It would seem like there will be a massive change in that industry," he said at the WSJD Live event. "When I look at the automobile, I see that software is becoming an increasingly important part of the car of the future."

Apple has already made inroads into vehicles with the launch of its CarPlay infotainment system, which allows motorists to sync their iPhone up with their dashboard.

"We want people as they enter the car to have an iPhone experience," said Cook of his firm's approach to its vehicular projects.

Earlier this week, industry experts at Jefferies & Co predicted that the rumoured Apple Car is likely to cost in the region of $55,000.