Is Sony’s Vision-S Prototype Too Well Thought Out To Remain Just A Concept?

Sony has taken the automotive and tech worlds by storm with the debut of the Vision-S Prototype electric vehicle at CES 2020.

Does this sophisticated and well-executed study signal the Japanese giant’s intention to build cars? That’s anyone’s guess, but given the resources put into the Vision-S Prototype and the fact that Sony collaborated with automotive suppliers like Magna Steyr, Continental and Bosch, nothing can be ruled out.

Officially, Sony says the concept vehicle signals its intent to start developing car technology. “Sony is working to thoroughly understand the mechanism of cars – to not only comprehend how they are made and the challenges they present, but also their relevance to society,” the company said in the accompanying press release, adding that it wants to “re-imagine mobility as we know it.”

Roughly the size of a Tesla Model S, but heavier; does 0-62 in 4.8 seconds

Sony describes the Vision-S as “ a glimpse into the future of mobility, encompassing the evolution of safety, comfort, entertainment and adaptability.” Slightly shorter (4,895 mm/192.7 in) and narrower (1,900 mm/74.8 in) than a Tesla Model S but with a longer wheelbase (3,000 mm/118.1 in) and similar height (1,450 mm/57 in), the Sony Vision-S Prototype is heavier at 5,180 lbs (2,350 kg).

The four-seat fastback sedan is powered by two electric motors each delivering 200 kW (268 HP/272 PS) for a total of 536 HP (544 PS). One is mounted on the front axle and the other on the rear axle, giving the Vision-S AWD capability. At 4.8 seconds, the 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) acceleration is not record-breaking and neither is the 149 mph (240 km/h) top speed. Still, these figures mean it’s faster than the average driver would ever need their car to be. There’s no information regarding the driving range, though.

Full of sensors and cameras enabling Level 2+ semi-autonomous driving assistance systems

The Vision-S features double wishbone front and rear suspension with an air spring system so it should offer a pretty comfortable ride. Obviously, the Japanese company focused on the gadgetry with the Vision-S, which features 33 automotive grade sensors (including Sony CMOS sensors).

Installed both inside and outside the car, the radar, ultrasonic, and solid-state LiDAR sensors, as well as an advanced camera monitoring tech, offer 360-degree protection by powering Level 2+ driving assistance systems. Those include advanced cruise control, self-parking and auto-lane change functions. Thanks to over-the-air software updates and 5G connectivity, Sony reckons the Vision-S could achieve Level 4 or higher self-driving capability in the future.

A display-rich interior powered by artificial intelligence

Interior highlights include a dashboard packing three large displays (instrument panel, main unit, and front passenger unit), two displays for the rearview cameras, and a sixth screen for the climate control and other car functions. There are also two screens for the rear passengers.

Additionally, thanks to artificial intelligence, Sony says the Vision-S “gets closer to and understands you.” It continuously learns the preferences of the driver and passengers so it can seamlessly activate their favorite settings when they hop on board.

Last but not least, the Vision-S uses a newly-designed EV platform Sony says it can be adapted for “various uses and car types, not just coupes but also sedans, SUVs and MPVs.” Should Tesla and other EV makers worry?