Apple has reportedly started hiring automotive technology and design experts to staff up a top-secret research lab, with the possible intention of building a car. Citing people familiar with the iPhone maker, the Financial Times reported on Friday that Apple's plans may be related to CarPlay, the in-car entertainment and software service.

But the background of the executives it is recruiting suggest that Apple may be trying to build a car, the newspaper said, citing sources. Apple recently hired the head of Mercedes-Benz's Silicon Valley research and development unit, Johann Jungwirth, according to a LinkedIn profile.

The connected car, or vehicles with a full range of Internet and software services beyond mere navigation and communications, is considered one of the ripest areas for expansion for technology companies. Apple is trying to incorporate its software into cars, as Google does. Nvidia is also offering its hardware as a platform for connected cars.

The Wall Street Journal also reports that Apple is hiring experts from the automotive industry for a new research lab.

"Apple has several hundred employees working secretly toward creating an Apple-branded electric vehicle, according to people familiar with the matter. They said the project, code-named "Titan," has an initial design of a vehicle that resembles a minivan, one of these people said."

BusinessInsider ealrier this month also reported that Apple was working on something that will, "give Tesla a run for its money." Tesla is the world's leading electric car maker.