Apple is trying to settle a suit that claims it raided a Massachusetts company’s engineers for a large-scale battery project, according to a court filing.
Apple asked a federal judge on Tuesday for more time to file a brief in the case, saying it was exploring a resolution with A123 Systems, which makes batteries for electric cars. The request was granted later that day.
Last month, A123 Systems sued Apple claiming the tech giant lured a handful of key engineers who specialize in large-scale batteries, bolstering rumors that the Cupertino-based company is working on an car. A123 Systems claims the engineers’ departure forced the company to abandon key projects and is seeking monetary damages. The company also seeks an injunction barring the engineers from working on similar projects for a year, potentially complicating Apple’s plans.
Michael Rosen, a lawyer for A123 Systems, declined to comment. Apple lawyer Stephen Melnick did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The filing was first reported by Thomson Reuters.
Above: Apple is trying to settle claims it poached engineers from a lithium battery maker (AFP/Getty Images).
