Xiaomi to Sony Enter EV Market with Phone-Inspired Platforms
Technology firms are moving into the electric vehicle (EV) market, using their existing strengths in software, hardware and manufacturing to build connected cars.
Smartphones and EVs share software-defined systems and both rely on lithium-ion batteries, making the automotive space a logical next step for companies that already engineer mobile devices.
The International Data Corporation expects global smartphone shipments to decline by nearly 1% in 2026.
As growth slows in mobile, firms are turning to EVs as a way to apply their technology platforms to new products.
Xiaomi SU7 links car and phone
Xiaomi’s EV, the SU7, marks the company's entry into the automotive sector through its Xiaomi Auto division. It combines manufacturing, AI and software to develop a connected car experience.
The SU7 launches in 2024 with a top speed of 265km/h and runs on Xiaomi HyperOS, which connects the vehicle with the user’s smartphone and smart home.
Speaking at the car’s unveiling, Lei Jun, Xiaomi Group Founder, Chairman and CEO, says: “Xiaomi has decided to invest tenfold, starting from the development of fundamental core technologies, committing to constructing an outstanding vehicle.
“Through 15 to 20 years of effort, Xiaomi aims to become one of the top five global automakers.”
Xiaomi takes full control of its vehicle production by building its own EV factory. It uses a proprietary die-casting method to shape parts in-house.
Sony Honda AFEELA brand prepares launch
Sony entered the EV market through a 2022 joint venture with Honda, forming Sony Honda Mobility.
Its vehicles will be released under the AFEELA brand, with the first model – AFEELA 1 – expected to ship in 2026.
Sony supplies software, sensors, network technology and in-car entertainment. Honda provides automotive production and safety expertise.
AFEELA 1 includes advanced driver assistance systems and a voice-activated personal agent and has an expected range of up to 300 miles.
A Media Bar on the vehicle's exterior displays updates such as charging status or personalised information.
The partnership blends Sony’s digital capabilities with Honda’s vehicle engineering, aiming to deliver a more integrated mobility experience.
Foxconn expands with open EV platforms
Foxconn, known for assembling iPhones, entered the EV market in 2020.
It creates the Foxtron brand with carmaker Yulon and also develops the MIH Open EV Platform – a modular hardware and software foundation for faster, lower-cost EV development.
Foxtron builds its own EVs, including SUVs, sedans, buses and pickups. The company’s aim is to make it easier for others to manufacture EVs using its base systems.
Foxconn Chairman and CEO, Young Liu, says: “Our vision at Foxconn is to work with leading customers around the world to create an inter-connected world with smart technologies.
“We do that by providing next-generation technology solutions to our customers and partners, in turn supporting them to provide products with the highest value to their customers.”
Suppliers focus on software and hardware integration
Other technology firms are contributing EV solutions without producing the vehicles themselves.
Huawei builds HarmonyOS Cockpit, which includes voice control, multi-screen support, device pairing and links to its intelligent driving systems.
Samsung supplies EV components, including Exynos Auto processors, camera modules and batteries.
LG manufactures EV powertrains through LG Magna e-Powertrain and also produces in-car displays and digital dashboards.
OPPO works with manufacturers like MG, owned by SAIC Motor, to embed its OPPO Intelligent Drive platform, connecting phones to vehicles.
Vivo offers Jovi InCar, which links its smartphones to dashboards for voice control and navigation.
As EVs evolve into connected digital products, smartphone companies are applying their ecosystems and software platforms to cars.
With EVs acting as mobile devices on wheels, the line between tech and transport continues to narrow.
