After the launch of their first electric car two years ago, Sony once again used the CES in Las Vegas and already released their second take on an e-vehicle. The Japanese technology group’s entry into the market of urban mobility solutions seems to be a done deal. What’s inside the new VISION-S 02 concept study?
As early as 2020, Sony announced that it was launching its own interpretation of future mobility with the VISION-S initiative. In the same year, the manufacturer started with a first vehicle prototype and carried out initial road tests and 5G driving trials.
With the VISION-S 02, the Japanese are now releasing a new prototype based on the same platform as its predecessor, the VISION-S 01, which is supposed to shine with new entertainment experiences, a lot of space and seating for up to seven people.
One thing is also certain: the two prototypes are not just pure gimmicks. Sony announced that they will establish its own subsidiary, Sony Mobility Inc., this spring, which will be specifically responsible for the electric vehicle market. Here we go!
Dimensions, drivetrain and prices
With a length of 4.90 m, a width of 1.93 m and a height of 1.65 m, the VISION-S 02 is a compact E-SUV and thus just as long as its predecessor, and has a claimed weight of 2,480 kg. In terms of drive, the Japanese rely on an all-wheel solution with each axle powered by a motor with 200 kW and 272 hp. Sony is keeping a low profile when it comes to range and expected prices. However, speed junkies might be interested to know that the top speed of more than 180 km/h has already been revealed.
Entertainment – Better equipped than your local electronics store
When a technology company like Sony releases an electric car, one thing should quickly become clear: it certainly won’t be boring! Your senses should be pampered and your mind entertained. The manufacturer promises the highest video and sound enjoyment, so you can be sure your eyes and ears will be well taken care of. The latest 5G technology is already integrated for smooth playback, even in the highest quality.
The seat speakers, which are designed to create a three-dimensional sound field, play just as big of a role as the fully integrated BRAVIA CORE digital video service. The panoramic screen in the front and the individual displays in the rear seats can be controlled together or separately. And the gamers among you will also get their money’s worth. Sony announced that PlayStation games can be played either via a remote connection to a console at home, or via cloud streaming. You’ll be ready to take on the next roadblock with panache!
Security – Digital and monitored in real time
In the VISION-S 02, Sony rely on a multitude of sensors that are installed 360 degrees around the vehicle and detect and analyse the surroundings in real time. In addition to high-resolution CMOS image sensors, as known from digital cameras, LiDAR sensors are used that detect the space in all three dimensions. The safety system interacts intuitively with the driver and provides real-time status of the environment at all times. For example, the presence of emergency vehicles is reported instantly. Future – here we come!
Here you can see the prototype driving autonomously via 5G:
Our assessment of the new Sony concept study
Honestly: we are surprised that Sony already released a second prototype at this point and we are following the further development with great interest. For the market of established manufacturers of electric cars, the serious entry of the Japanese giant is certainly beneficial and will make the competition sit up and take notice. Thanks to autonomous driving advancement, the topic of entertainment in electric cars is certainly gaining importance and hardly anyone has the know-how and the wealth of experience that Sony does. We will definitely stay tuned and report to you as soon as we know more!
For more info on the new Sony concept hit sony.com
Words: Philipp Schwab Photos: Sony
