CES 2022: Sony officially launches electric car and unveils Vision-S O2

This is the second concept car presented by Sony, after the Vision-S unveiled at CES 2020.

This time it is confirmed. Sony is officially preparing to enter the competitive electric car market to demonstrate its know-how. The Vision-S O2 is the leader of the autonomous and connected future advocated by the Japanese manufacturer.

In partnership with Vodaphone for 5G

The Vision-S O2 takes the form of a generously dimensioned SUV: 4.89 m in length, 3.03 m in wheelbase and 1.93 m in width. The space made available by Sony bodes well for this car’s spaciousness, which will emphasize its connectivity and autonomy. The performance resumes in every way those of its predecessor, with two engines of 200 kW (approximately 270 hp) placed on each axle of the car. Sony promises a 0 to 100 in less than 5 seconds despite the 2.5 tonnes that the vehicle weighs.

So yes, the Vision-S O2 is still only at the prototype stage, like its big sister the Vision-S O1. But the announcement of the vehicle is accompanied by the creation of a division dedicated to electric mobility, called “Sony Mobility Inc.”. The now automaker is working hard to make its vehicles technological and autonomous showcases.

The Vision-S O2 has indeed the substantial technological arsenal of the Japanese brand, specializing in the design of sensors of all kinds. By adding its powerful entertainment services, Sony seeks to take a decisive advantage over its competitors in autonomous driving and on-board infotainment.

Level 4 and 5 autonomy in the sights

A desire which is crystallized in the partnership concluded with Vodaphone. The two players have been working for many months in a laboratory in Germany to develop and test the autonomous functionalities of future Japanese vehicles, with 5G as the main resource. Sony and Vodaphone are increasing the number of tests which prove to be conclusive, such as the driving of the vehicle on German roads by a pilot who has remained in Japan, or laps of circuits without a pilot on board and without any accident.

However, Vodaphone remains cautious and indicates that the major problem of the technology remains to be solved: it is about the latency times which some commands can suffer, despite the power of 5G. The operator therefore strives to reduce this time as much as possible in order to offer the safest possible experience. Vodaphone will then develop remote update solutions to provide real-time support for Sony vehicles.

The Japanese manufacturer has not announced a possible marketing date. Road tests continue for its vehicles, however, and there is no doubt that new developments will arrive very soon.

Source: Mobile Europe