Sony, Honda to jointly build EVs, eyeing first sale in 2025

Sony and Honda have entered into a partnership to roll out a new company that will develop electric vehicles with premium features, which are expected to kick off first sales in 2025.

The joint venture (JV) will develop and sell EVs and commercialise them in conjunction with providing ‘mobility services’, the companies said in a joint statement.

The companies head for the collaboration nearly two months after Sony Group floated a new division Sony Mobility that deals in EVs.

“Through this alliance, we intend to build on our vision to ‘make the mobility space an emotional one,’ and contribute to the evolution of mobility cantred around safety, entertainment and adaptability,” said Kenichiro Yoshida, Representative Corporate Executive Officer, Sony Group.” 

Though the name of the newly-formed company, stake ownership of partners and other details were not disclosed, Sony did reveal that the sales of the first EV model are expected to kick off in 2025. While the JV entity is mandated to plan, design, develop, and sell the EVs, Honda will be solely taking care of manufacturing operations from its facilities in Japan.  

Sony also indicated that it will be developing the mobility service platform, which will be made available for the new company.

Toshihiro Mibe, Director at Honda Motor, said that 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,” he said.