Sony Corp. is jumping into the ride-hailing fray. The Tokyo-based electronics giant plans to form a joint venture with six taxi operators in Japan this spr
Sony Corp. is jumping into the ride-hailing fray.
The Tokyo-based electronics giant plans to form a joint venture with six taxi operators in Japan this spring, according to a statement Tuesday.
The alliance comes as Uber Technologies Inc., the world’s biggest ride-hailing startup, is in talks with another cab company as it tries to build its presence in the country.
After years of little action, Japan’s lackluster ride-hailing industry is suddenly seeing a lot of activity. Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi is visiting the country to underscore the importance of its ¥1.7 trillion ($16 billion) taxi market.
The San Francisco-based company, which has failed to gain much ground since launching in 2013 amid stringent regulations, is in talks for a venture with taxi operator Daiichi Koutsu Sangyo Co.
Sony’s alliance is with Checker Cab Group, Daiwa Motor Transportation Co., Hinomaru Kotsu Co., Kokusai Motorcars Co., Kotobuki Taxi Co. and Green Cab Co., which have a combined fleet of more than 10,000 cars in the greater Tokyo area, according to the statement.
Sony wants to develop a ride-hailing app powered by artificial intelligence and provide a payment service.
