Sony to enter EV market with new Vision-S 02 SUV

Sony is very serious about selling (electric) cars

A few years ago, Sony revealed their first-ever electric vehicle – the Vision-S. Since its debut, however, the electronics maker has been tight-lipped about the model and its subsequent development. Given the lack of updates, some even speculated the Vision-S project would be canceled. But all that changed after Sony revealed the Vision-S once more, now called the Vision-S 01. This time it's accompanied by another EV, the Vision-S 02.

Unlike the Vision-S 01, which is a sedan, the Vision-S 02 is a crossover. It adopts a swoopy compact shape that somewhat resembles the Tesla Model Y. The front end appears to be inspired by the Vision S-01 thanks to its LED headlights connected by a lightbar across the hood. Even the front fender design is copied from the sedan to the crossover. Unlike the sporty wheels of the Vision-S 01, the 02 rides on 20-inch alloys with a flat face design.

Sony says the new EV crossover rides on the same platform as the Vision-S 01. The SUV measures 4985mm long, 1930mm wide, and 1650mm tall with a 3030mm wheelbase. It is powered by a pair of electric motors, one on each axle, each producing 200 kW (268 horsepower) - giving the crossover all-wheel drive capability. No specifics such as battery or range have been revealed yet, but Sony claims top speed is over 180 km/h.

Step inside the Vision-S 02, and you'll find loads of displays. For instance, three large screens make up the entire width of the dashboard. The center console also consists of a touchscreen, which controls the vehicle's air-conditioning system. Behind the front seats are another set of screens for rear occupants to enjoy. Despite looking compact, the Vision-S 02 comes with three rows of seating.

Apart from the debut of the Vision-S 02, Sony announced they will be establishing a new company called Sony Mobility Inc., with which they will enter the EV market. Given how serious the company is with its EVs, we might just see a Sony car hitting the roads very soon.