Sharp Displays Innovative Technology and Design with Appliance, Home Entertainment and Solar Energy Products at 2006 IBS

Business Wire, Jan 11, 2006

ORLANDO, Fla. -- At the 2006 International Builders' Show, Sharp is showcasing a range of appliance products that enable unique design possibilities and provide excellent cooking results, such as the world's first Microwave Drawer(TM), Insight(TM) and Insight Pro(TM) Ranges and the Superheated Steam Oven. The line of Microwave Drawers, exclusive to Sharp, expands with the introduction of a new 24-inch model, providing consumers with more options for accessible and stylish microwave placement. Sharp will also highlight its world leadership in both Liquid Crystal Television (LC-TV)* and solar energy** with AQUOS LC-TVs and residential applications for solar energy.

"Sharp remains the first and only manufacturer to offer a microwave drawer configuration, leading the industry with a standout design solution that is characterized by the longstanding excellence of Sharp microwave cooking," Bob Scaglione, senior vice president, Consumer Electronics Marketing Group, Sharp Electronics Corporation. "The Microwave Drawer complements a wide variety of kitchen designs and renovations and we continue to build our offering with new sizes and combinations that answer the cooking and style needs of all consumers."

In addition to new Microwave Drawer models, Sharp is displaying a new line of space-saving Insight and Insight Pro Ranges that combine a conventional and convection oven, glass cooktop and Microwave Drawer in one sleek body. A selection of new Over the Range models rounds out Sharp's various options for microwave placement, boasting cutting-edge cooking technology and elegant designs that match the decor of today's kitchens.

Sharp answers the home entertainment needs of homeowners with its world-class selection of superior-performing AQUOS LC-TVs, with 65 models in screen sizes ranging from 13- to 65-inches. Offering the industry's most extensive assortment of designs, colors and screen sizes, AQUOS is ideal for a stellar home theater experience in any room of the home.

Sharp is the world's number-one manufacturer of solar cells and powers more than 100,000 residential and industrial installations around the world. Sharp has been the U.S. market leader since 2000 and recently introduced low-profile solar roof modules that lay flat on the rooftop for enhanced aesthetics and superb performance.

At its solar assembly operations in Memphis, Tennessee Sharp assembles 162-, 167-, 170-, 175-, 185- and 208-watt solar panels for residential and commercial installations.

Sharp will highlight the following key products at the International Builders' Show. For additional details, please see individual product press releases:

Insight Pro Microwave Drawers: Sharp continues to bolster its acclaimed Insight Pro Microwave Drawer line with the introduction of a new stand-alone model, a 24-inch unit (model KB-6014LS). Also available in a 30-inch automatic configuration (model KB-6015K), the 1.0-cubic-foot units expand the options for microwave placement so that builders and kitchen designers can incorporate a Microwave Drawer into almost any design layout or configuration. Model KB-6015K is currently available for a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $849.99. The 24-inch KB-6014LS will be available in June for an MSRP of $849.99.

Insight and Insight Pro Ranges (models KB-3401L, KB-3425L and KB-4425L): Sharp introduces a new-generation of Insight and Insight Pro Ranges that feature a glass cooktop, conventional and convection oven and the world's first Microwave Drawer in one sleek unit. Available in freestanding or slide-in configurations, Sharp offers consumers a new and innovative solution for kitchen design that addresses the key question of where to put the microwave. Models KB-3401L, KB-3425L and KB-4425L are available in black, white or stainless steel finishes. Pricing has not yet been determined.

Insight Pro Combination Microwave Drawer and Cooktop (model KB-5121KS): This 30-inch-wide combination unit combines the same cooktop available in Sharp's Insight and Insight Pro Ranges with the Microwave Drawer. The KB-5121KS offers consumers an all-in-one complement to a wall oven, and the Microwave Drawer provides an alternative to a countertop microwave for a sleek, integrated look. Model KB-5121KS is available now in a stainless steel finish for an MSRP of $1,799.99; models KB-5121KK and KB-5121KW will be available in February in black and white finishes for MSRPs of $1,689.99 and $1,749.99, respectively.

Superheated Steam Oven (models AX-700S/R): The new Superheated Steam Oven offers consumers a healthy way to prepare their favorite foods, with the convenience and versatility that characterizes Sharp's cooking appliances. Based on a unique technology that combines heat with superheated steam, it enables optimal food preparation, providing the benefits of steam cooking to a wider variety of foods that are roasted, grilled or baked in the oven. The Superheated Steam Oven is available in red (AX-700R) or stainless (AX-700S) finishes for an MSRP of $1,399.99.