Sharp, a Japanese electronics maker, has announced plans to launch the LDK+ electric car. A prototype was shown at a Tokyo exhibition, a fact reported by Motor1.com. The move marks Sharp’s push beyond consumer electronics into mobility technology and integrated energy solutions for homes and businesses.
The vehicle is described as an electric minivan with a length around five meters. A roof mounted solar array collects energy from the sun, and an auxiliary battery can supply power to external devices and even to homes during outages or grid shortages, a feature that aligns with growing interest in vehicle to grid and portable energy storage in North American markets.
Inside, a 65 inch display dominates the cabin, complemented by configurable tables and a movable sofa. The prototype omits a traditional steering wheel and pedals, suggesting that the LDK+ may rely on autonomous driving technology or a high level of automation for its operation, a concept that resonates with current North American and European trends toward auto pilot capabilities.
Sharp representatives have stated that the company intends to start selling electric vehicles by 2030. This timeline positions Sharp among other major electronics brands seeking to cross over into mobility, energy storage, and shared platforms that integrate with smart home ecosystems.
Sharp was founded in 1912 and has become a global manufacturer of home electronics and appliances, including televisions, audio equipment, washing machines, and vacuum cleaners. The company’s longstanding expertise in display technology and energy efficiency informs its approach to automotive and battery technology in the LDK+ program.
In unrelated but notable industry news, the Chinese automaker Chery recently refreshed the Arrizo 8 sedan in Russia with a new Ultra Black package. The update emphasizes a bold black aesthetic across the body and wheels, paired with a panoramic glass roof and a suite of interior lighting and comfort features.
The Ultra Black package adds black exterior accents and rims, a panoramic roof with sunroof functionality, ambient interior lighting, air ionization and aromatization features, electrochromic rearview mirrors, ten airbags, and a 12 speaker audio system.
Under the hood the Arrizo 8 is powered by a 1.6 liter TGDI turbocharged gasoline engine producing 150 horsepower and 275 Newton meters of torque, paired with a seven speed dual clutch transmission described by the manufacturer as a robotic unit.
Separately, industry sources have indicated that JAC motor Company will begin production of hybrid pickups in Russia, signaling continued expansion of Chinese brands within the Russian market and highlighting ongoing cross border manufacturing and supply chain shifts that could impact pricing and availability in Europe and North America.
For readers in Canada and the United States, Sharp LDK+ signals continued interest in electric mobility that blends vehicle to grid capabilities with home energy management, a trend that may influence future incentives, charging infrastructure, and cross border collaborations.