Amid swirling rumors about a possible tie-up between Apple and Hyundai-Kia Motor Group to build an autonomous electric car, business news outlet CNBC says a finalized deal is "close."

The report, quoting multiple sources, said the deal would be to create an Apple-branded full-autonomous electric car, utilizing the Kia plant in Georgia, which has the available capacity. The cars are forecast to go into production in 2024, though that date could be pushed back.

Sources also say a final deal is pending and that Apple could come to an agreement with another automaker, adding that the U.S. tech company doesn't see Hyundai as its only business partner.

Neither Hyundai nor Apple agreed to comment in the CNBC report.