Sharp Reduces LCD TV Pricing
By Greg Tarr -- TWICE, 3/24/2003
MAHWAH, N.J.— Sharp Electronics announced it will cut prices on selected Aquos LCD TV models, effective May 1.
The company said the price reductions "are a direct result of enhanced worldwide consumer sales of the Aquos televisions and improved production efficiencies at Sharp's current and new manufacturing facilities.
Starting in May 2003, Sharp will begin to assemble Aquos Liquid Crystal Televisions from kits (produced in Japan) at its manufacturing facility in Rosarito, Mexico, which will supply select models to both the North and South American markets. In addition, Sharp will begin full end-to-end production of large-screen Liquid Crystal Televisions in sizes over 60-inches at its new facility in Kameyama, Japan, in the first quarter of 2004.
The new manufacturer's suggested retail prices are as follows:
- The Widescreen Series Aquos with 16:9 aspect ratio — the 37W-inch LC-37HV4U, will be available later this month for a $7,499.95 suggested retail, down from $7,999.95; the 30W-inch LC-30HV4U, is now available at $4,499.95, down from $4,999.95; the 22W-inch LC-22SV2U, is available for $2,499.95, down from $2,999.95.
- The B Series Aquos Liquid Crystal Television — the 13-inch LC-13B2UA (silver) and LC-13B2UB (black), are now $649.95, down from $999.95; the 15-inch LC-15B2UA (silver) and LC-15B2UB (black), are available for $899.95, down from $1,199.95; the 20-inch LC-20B2UA (silver) and LC-20B2UB (black), are available for $1,499.95, down from $1,999.95.
- The PC Card Slot Series Aquos TVs — the 15-inch LC-15B1U is available for $1,199.95, down from $1,399.95; the 20-inch LC-20B1U is available for $1,799.95, down from $2,199.95.
- E Series Aquos TVs — the 13-inch LC-13E1U (silver), LC-13E1UB (black) and LC-13E1UW (white), are available for $599.95, down from $899.95; the 15-inch LC-15E1U (silver), LC-15E1UB (black) and LC-15E1UW (white), are available for $799.95, down from $1,099.95; the 20-inch LC-20E1U (silver), LC-20E1UB (black) and LC-20E1UW (white), are available for $1,399.95, down from $1,799.95.
In addition, Sharp is offering a $100 rebate on Aquos models in 13-, 15- and 20-inch screen sizes until April 30, 2003.
