Sharp has unveiled its innovative electric vehicle prototype, the LDK+, developed in collaboration with its parent company Foxconn HNHPF. The announcement was made on Tuesday during Sharp Tech-Day in Tokyo.
The LDK+ concept car is more than just a vehicle; it’s a space. The design incorporates a room-like interior, aiming to provide a new kind of mobility experience. Sharp’s Chief Technical Officer, Mototaka Taneya, highlighted the increasing importance of cars as personal spaces, particularly with the rise of autonomous driving technology. He emphasized that the LDK+ interior can be used effectively even when parked, transforming it into a workspace or leisure space. This innovative approach features a rotatable rear seat, a Sharp LCD display, and windows that can turn opaque for privacy. The car also utilizes AI to adjust air conditioning and lighting based on user preferences.
The LDK+ is built upon an EV platform developed by Foxconn, which has been actively pursuing the EV market. Jun Seki, Foxconn’s Chief Strategy Officer for EVs, emphasized the cost-efficiency of this modular approach. It allows companies to create unique models without massive investments.
Sharp’s foray into the EV market comes at a time when the industry faces challenges, including slowing growth and shifting automaker strategies. However, Seki remains optimistic about the future of EVs, predicting significant market growth by 2027.
This collaboration between Foxconn and Sharp represents a significant step in the evolving electric vehicle market. Foxconn, a major supplier for Apple Inc., has been strategically diversifying its portfolio and entering the EV sector. This move comes after Apple abandoned its own EV project in February after investing over a billion dollars. In May 2022, Foxconn’s chairman, Liu Young-way, expressed confidence in overcoming supply chain challenges and aimed to become the first EV maker not affected by material shortages. This ambition is part of their broader strategy to compete with established EV manufacturers like Tesla Inc. and Nio Inc.
Foxconn’s recent approval for a $246 million investment in Northern Vietnam for manufacturing EV parts further underlines their commitment to this market. This investment will focus on producing EV chargers and components, starting in January 2025. This move is expected to bolster Foxconn’s production capabilities and contribute to their goal of becoming a major player in the EV industry.
