Sony and Honda have announced plans to begin taking pre-orders for their first collaborative electric vehicle (EV) model in the first half of 2025.
The joint venture between the two, Sony Honda Mobility Inc (SHM), is expected to begin distributing the product in the US market in the spring of 2026.
In the Japanese market, distribution of EVs by Sony and Honda is expected to begin in the second half of 2026. The two companies are also considering launching the EV in the European market, but have no definite plans for that region at this time.
Both Sony and Honda are still reluctant to share information related to electric vehicles they are developing. In addition, the two also did not share any information related to the price or the battery technology used and the range of travel.
Sony and Honda only said that they plan to focus on online sales like Tesla’s, and the first model will be marketed with a relatively high price tag.
Honda will produce the first electric vehicle model in collaboration with Sony at its facilities in North America, while Sony will be responsible for developing sensors and vehicle software systems.
SHM is targeting to develop a Level 3 autonomous driving system, meaning that the vehicle will have the ability to run on its own under certain conditions. Sony’s software systems will also offer monthly subscriptions for entertainment and other services, providing SHM with ongoing revenue.
In addition, SHM is also reportedly exploring opportunities to introduce new types of in-vehicle entertainment, including types based on the metaverse. SHM boss and CEO Yasuhide Mizuno said that the combined company will develop its first vehicle quickly.
Mizuno emphasized that SHM cannot miss the step of accepting pre-orders in 2025, as the company believes that this year will be a turning point year regarding the transition to electric vehicles.
