Sony and Honda to Develop Electric Vehicles

TOKYO—Sony Group Corp. and Honda Motor Co. are forming a strategic partnership to develop electric vehicles and mobility services. The joint-venture will combine Honda’s manufacturing prowess with Sony's expertise in the development and application of imaging, sensing, telecommunication, network and entertainment technologies.

The first EV model from the new company is expected to debut in 2025. The still-to-be-named organization will plan, design, develop and sell the vehicles, while they will be mass-produced at an existing Honda assembly plant.

“The [joint venture] 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,” says Toshihiro Mibe, president and CEO of Honda. “We will do so by leveraging [our] cutting-edge technology and know-how in relation to the environment and safety, while aligning the technological assets of both companies.

“Although Sony and Honda are companies that share many historical and cultural similarities, our areas of technological expertise are very different,” adds Mibe. “Therefore, I believe this alliance [that] brings together the strengths of our two companies offers great possibilities for the future of mobility.”