The entertainment system producer Sony has announced its first electric vehicle at the CES (Consumer Electronics Show) in Las Vegas. The CES is the world’s biggest trade show for entertainment systems, and a rather unusual venue to present a new car. Sony clearly showed its focus for this “Vision-S” vehicle through this choice. The car will reflect Sony’s expertise in smartphone and entertainment system development, as it is equipped with innovative sensor techniques and a unique infotainment system.

It is still uncertain whether the presentation is just a marketing stunt, or whether it is a true memorandum of understanding towards larger sustainable mobility ambitions. With its wide range of partners in the automotive industry, the firm has the potential to develop a platform-based vehicle fleet. In doing so, Sony could attempt to gain stakes in the attractive Asian market for electric vehicles. This would, however, present a great risk for Sony, as it would position them far from their core business.

The electronic producer may or may not turn its plans into reality. When companies that are not yet part of the automobile industry start to participate in it, this creates huge potential for innovation. Sony is a good example of how non-automotive companies can contribute their specialized knowledge. As more firms like Sony launch projects like the “Vision-S”, this will be an interesting trend to follow that the sustainable mobility market may profit from.