Can Sharp build EVs that wow? R&D slowdown stands in the way

New patent filings down three-quarters in 10 years as group slashes spending

20241017N Sharp LDK

Sharp's LDK+ concept imagines an EV's interior as an extension of one's living room. (Photo by Yuki Nakao)

KANOKO SAKAMOTO, Nikkei staff writer

OSAKA -- Sharp's plan to enter the electric vehicle business faces hurdles as a drop in patent submissions and R&D expenses, as well as two consecutive years in the red, raise questions about its ability to fund and develop cutting-edge technology.

Known primarily as an electronics and appliance maker, Sharp is looking to move into EVs in the next few years in cooperation with Taiwanese parent Hon Hai Precision Industry, or Foxconn.

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