A new Japanese player emerges
The Sharp Corporation is set to shake up the EV space at the Japan Mobility Show 2025, to be held at the Tokyo Big Sight convention and exhibition center from October 30 to November 9. The electronics manufacturer plans to unveil the latest version of its LDK+, a cutting-edge concept vehicle designed to blur the lines between mobility and modern living by integrating seamlessly into the modern smart home ecosystem.
Sharp
Part of Your Home
The LDK+, short for ‘Living, Dining, Kitchen +’, is being developed in collaboration with Taiwan’s Hon Hai Technology Group, commonly known as Foxconn, and is being promoted by Sharp as ‘Part of Your Home’. The concept minivan features compact external proportions to offer easy manoeuvrability in urban settings, while the cabin has been designed to feel spacious and versatile with the intelligent use of the available space. The front seats can swivel around to face the passengers, the center console features a built in table and projector, while a retractable screen above the rear seats allows occupants to watch movies or hold meetings, effectively turning the interior into a lounge or office.
Sharp
Advanced Connectivity Features
Where the LDK+ truly stands out is in its connectivity features. It integrates with Sharp’s proprietary AI platform, known as CE-LLM (Communication Edge – Large Language Model), which allows the vehicle to connect with various smart home appliances and even energy systems, such as solar panels or home batteries, for efficient energy management. The LDK+ communicates with these devices and systems using Sharp’s proprietary AIoT technology, or Artificial Intelligence of Things, which is an innovative combination of AI and the Internet of Things (IoT) infrastructure.
Sharp
What to Expect
The LDK+ is still at the concept stage, and while Sharp is yet to announce battery and powertrain options, and various other details, the company has hinted that we may see a production ready version by 2027. So far, the concept is a technology showcase and demonstration of how mobility can evolve into an extension of domestic life, highlighting a growing trend towards vehicles serving not only as transportation, but also as personal spaces for work, entertainment, or relaxation. Whether it remains a concept or evolves into a real product, the LDK+ underscores Sharp’s ambition to redefine what a vehicle can be in the era of smart homes and electrified lifestyles.
