Sharp Bows New Aquos LCD TVs

By Greg Tarr -- TWICE, 6/24/2002

MAHWAH, N.J. — Looking to extend its leadership position in the budding LCD TV marketplace, Sharp took the wraps off of a number of new LCD TV models, including a new line using black cosmetics.

During the recent Home Entertainment Expo in New York, Bob Scaglione, Sharp CE Group marketing VP, said the company sold 500,000 LCD TVs worldwide in 2001 and projects selling 1 million in fiscal 2002.

The Japanese parent company has set a goal of replacing the CRT direct-view TV business with flat-panel products by 2005. As part of that effort, he said Sharp has added a new factory and has plans to add another one.

According to Scaglione, the U.S. sales company sold 54,000 LCD TVs in 2001, up from 10,000 in 2000. It is looking for sales of 200,000 units this year.

New products announced at the show included Aquos LCD TVs in the 15-inch ($1,699, June) and 20-inch ($2,699, now) screens sizes. The models both include PCMCIA card slots that will accept adapters for various flash media formats.

At the same time, the company announced new 4:3 Aquos models in black. Screen sizes will include a 13-inch model ($1,199, June), a 15-inch ($1,499, June) and 20-inch ($2,499, now) model.