Japan Mobility Show, Sharp like Chinese Xiaomi focuses on the car
The Japanese giant's LDK+ minivan concept is based on Foxconn's electric platform. It will be unveiled at the Japan Mobility Show, with the aim of reaching the market during 2027.
Key points
The Japanese company Sharp, once a leader in the global consumer technology sector, is seriously considering entering the automotive sector, almost in response to a similar choice already made by other competitors, especially Chinese ones, first and foremost Xiaomi, but also Dreame and Huawei. To do so, they have relied on Foxconn's production power and expertise to make a battery-powered minivan with the LDK+ brand name, whose public debut is set for next week's Japan Mobility Show. After televisions, microwave ovens and air purifiers, the brand seems intent on extending its home-tech offerings to four-wheelers.
The proportions are of a conventional minivan
The LDK+ comes remarkably close to a production-ready vehicle, unlike the prototype unveiled at the end of last year. The proportions are now more in line with those of a conventional minivan. The front end is more pronounced, with full-width LED headlamps, as well as integrated into a grille covered with the Sharp logo. The MPV also features sliding doors and a dramatically vertical rear solution, while the rear-view mirrors and door handles are traditional enough to suggest that the concept is in its final stages.
The cockpit is a living room-like environment
Another image offers a glimpse into the interior of the cabin, which is accessed through a large pillarless opening. The layout includes a flat floor, a swivelling driver's seat that can be swivelled to the rear, and a console with a folding table. The rear seat is intended for the three rearmost passengers, sacrificing, somewhat, cargo space but creating a lounge-like environment with plenty of ambient lighting. LDK+ is equipped with a projector and a screen above the rear seat in the style of a mobile cinema or workspace.
The minivan is based on Sharp's AloT platform
The electric vehicle integrates Sharp's AIoT platform, which allows it to connect with home devices such as home appliances, air conditioners and washing machines. In addition, it uses artificial intelligence to learn users' habits and preferences as well as being supported by V2H functionality and solar integration and residential battery systems. Sharp has not announced the technical specifications of the electric powertrain or battery pack, which will hit Japanese roads in early 2027, followed by a launch in emerging markets in Southeast Asia.
