According to media reports, Japanese electronics and appliance manufacturer Sharp has announced plans to enter the electric vehicle market, with expectations to begin selling electric cars in the coming years.
It is reported that Sharp will unveil its electric vehicle concept, the "LDK+," at the 24th Sharp Technology Day, held from September 17 to 18 at the Tokyo International Forum. This concept car is being developed in collaboration with Foxconn, based on an open electric vehicle platform, and co-developed with Folofly Corporation.
The "LDK+" is an electric vehicle that envisions the interior as an "extended living room." Sharp will incorporate its proprietary AI technology "CE-LLM," AIoT technology, and sensor technology into the vehicle, promoting a comfortable and sustainable lifestyle that connects the electric vehicle with "living spaces, people, and energy."
In this concept car, the rear seats can rotate backward. When the doors are closed, LCD blinds on both side windows shut, creating a private space. The car also automatically adjusts the air conditioning and lighting based on passenger preferences, providing a comfortable cabin environment.
The rear of the car is equipped with a 65V display screen, which can function as an immersive cinema room, a play area for children, a remote working space, or a platform for seamless communication with family members via the large screen.
Additionally, the car is equipped with batteries and solar panels that can be connected to the home. Artificial intelligence will manage optimal energy integration between the home and the electric vehicle. In the event of a power outage due to a disaster, the stored energy in the battery can also be used to power the home.
Sharp's Chief Technology Officer, Taneya Mototaka, expressed his belief that electric vehicles will continue to evolve as the world moves towards a carbon-free society. Sharp aims to leverage its experience in producing consumer products to bring more convenience to its customers.
However, analysts point out that Sharp's core business, the LCD panel sector, has been shrinking due to market downturns. The company now hopes to make electric vehicles a new revenue pillar.
