Sony Group Corporation, a Japanese multinational conglomerate, and Honda Motor, Japan-based automobile manufacturer, have revealed their decision to form a strategic alliance that aims to create a new era of mobility.
The two companies have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that outlines their goal to establish a joint venture through which they plan to engage in the joint development and sales of high value-added battery electric vehicles (EVs) and commercialize them in conjunction with providing mobility services.
Under the alliance, Honda will contribute its expertise in vehicle body manufacturing technology and after-sales service management experience, while Sony will offer its capabilities in the development and application of imaging, sensing, telecommunication, network, and entertainment technologies.
Kenichiro Yoshida CEO – Sony
“Sony’s Purpose is to ‘fill the world with emotion through the power of creativity and technology.’ Through this alliance with Honda, which has accumulated extensive global experience and achievements in the automobile industry over many years and continues to make revolutionary advancements in this field, we intend to build on our vision to ‘make the mobility space an emotional one,’ and contribute to the evolution of mobility centered around safety, entertainment and adaptability.”
Sales of the first EV model from the New Company is anticipated to start in 2025. The New Company is expected to plan, design, develop, and sell the EVs, but not own and operate manufacturing facilities, so Honda will be responsible for manufacturing the first EV model at its vehicle manufacturing plant. It is expected that a mobility service platform will be developed by Sony and made available for the New Company.
Mr. Toshihiro Mibe, Director, President, Representative Executive Officer and CEO, Honda Motor said, “The New Company will aim to stand at the forefront of innovation, evolution, and expansion of mobility around the world, by taking a broad and ambitious approach to creating value that exceeds the expectations and imagination of customers. We will do so by leveraging Honda’s cutting-edge technology and know-how in relation to the environment and safety while aligning the technological assets of both companies.”
