With gas prices skyrocketing due to inflation, a lot of consumers these days are looking into electric cars as an alternative. And a deal between two large companies could mean bigger changes to come for its growing market.
This past week, Sony and Honda’s motor division recently formed a joint venture, one that will begin selling electric cars in 2025. This deal allows Honda to finally move forward into the market at full speed, with the help of Sony’s software and technological power. Both companies are expected to invest around $38 million apiece (or 5 billion yen) into the venture.
Even in the face of global chip production woes and a slowly growing market, this means big things for electric cars in the future. Joining us now to talk about this venture is Daniel Brdar, who serves as Global Energy Executive and CEO for Ideal Power, a company that specializes in energy storage and electric vehicles. His expertise will certainly provide some weight on this subject.
Q&A:
- What does Sony and Honda’s team-up mean for the future of electric cars?
- How big a competitor could they be on the market? Especially in the face of those that are established in it, such as Tesla?
- Aside from rising gas prices, what do you think is the most appealing factor with consumers switching over to electric cars?
- Could this be the start of bigger team-ups to come? Could you see other electronic companies forming ventures with auto makers to help guide them into the future?
- Who do you think this venture will benefit more – Sony or Honda? Or do you think it will push both companies equally?
- Where can we learn more about Ideal Power and what it’s currently doing in the field of electric cars and renewable energy?
- Those interested to learn more can visit our official website at http://www.idealpower.com.
About Daniel Brdar:
Mr. Brdar has over 30 years of experience in the power systems and energy industries and has held a variety of leadership positions during his career. In addition to his role at Ideal Power, Dan served as President and CEO of FuelCell Energy Inc., a Nasdaq-listed company with a market cap of over $250 million. During his tenure, the company’s revenues increased 235%, to $100 million, manufacturing production increased by over 200% and over $100 million was raised from institutional and strategic investors. Prior to joining Ideal Power, Mr. Brdar served as the Chief Operating Officer of Petra Solar, a privately held, venture funded solar and smart grid company, where he held full P&L responsibility and led a cross-functional management team across several international markets. He also served as Gas Turbine Product Manager, for GE’s Power Systems Division, a world leader in power generation systems and products. Additionally, Dan has extensive research and development experience at the U.S. Department of Energy through various roles at the National Energy Technology Laboratory. He has a BS in Engineering from the University of Pittsburgh.
CONTACT: Jerry McGlothlin 919-437-0001 jerry@specialguests.com
