Sony sought technology partners to build an electric vehicle project

According to foreign media reports, Izumi Kawanishi, senior general manager of Sony Group, revealed that the company may add new technology partners to its electric vehicle project to help it build a mobility business and transform cars from transportation to entertainment spaces.

Electric vehicles are easier to manufacture than internal combustion engine vehicles, and the global shift to electric vehicles has allowed newcomers to enter the automotive industry. At the same time, autonomous driving and 5G technologies are expected to reshape the automotive industry, transforming the car into a mobile platform for information, entertainment and shared mobility services.

Kawanishi said, "We believe that ignoring the risks posed by electric vehicles is greater than the challenges they pose. He also added that the automotive industry's transition to electric vehicles is somewhat similar to the process by which information technology turns mobile phones into smartphones. It is reported that Kawanishi will take charge of Sony Mobility, Sony Mobility, Sony's new business.

(Image source: Sony)

Sony CEO Kenichiro Yoshida announced the creation of Sony Mobility at the International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, the first time the company has hinted at trying to turn an electric vehicle development project launched two years ago into a lucrative company.

So far, Sony has partnered with Canadian auto parts maker Magna to produce two prototype electric vehicles at its Austrian plant. Magna's Austrian plant also produces cars for companies such as BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Toyota.

German auto parts maker Bosch, French automotive technology company Valeo and Hungarian self-driving car startup AImotive are also involved in Sony's electric vehicle project.