The Afeela 1, a strategic joint venture product by Sony and Honda under Sony Honda Mobility (SHM), marks the beginning of a new era in electric vehicles. Launched at CES 2025, this cutting-edge all-electric mid-size liftback exemplifies the fusion of advanced automotive technology with entertainment-centric features, blending Sony’s digital expertise with Honda’s automotive know-how.
Powertrain and Performance
The Afeela 1 is powered by dual electric motors, each delivering 241 horsepower for a combined output estimated around 480 horsepower, enabling all-wheel drive. It comes equipped with a 91 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, offering an EPA-estimated driving range of approximately 300 miles on a single charge. The vehicle supports DC fast charging up to 150 kW through a Tesla NACS-compatible charging port, facilitating a quick recharge from 10% to 80% in under 30 minutes.
Advanced Technology and Safety
Afeela’s standout feature is its sophisticated AFEELA Intelligent Drive system, a Level 2+ advanced driver assistance suite employing over 40 sensors, including cameras, LiDAR, radars, and ultrasonic sensors, delivering 800 trillion operations per second (TOPS) of AI-powered processing. It seamlessly manages perception, prediction, and planning for enhanced driving safety and reduced driver stress. The system provides real-time 3D visualization of ADAS views and navigation using Unreal Engine 3, offering a rich, interactive interface.
Interior and Entertainment
Inside, the Afeela 1 transforms the cabin into a “Mobility as a Creative Entertainment Space” with Sony’s 360 Spatial Sound technology and optimally placed audio speakers delivering an immersive sound experience. The vehicle features multiple digital displays, including a large central touchscreen for multimedia control and a driver assist visualization cluster. The Afeela Personal Agent offers natural voice interaction for command and control, enabling an intuitive, hands-free experience. Premium materials are used extensively, focusing on sustainability with up to 70% plant-based or recycled substances.
Design and Connectivity
The Afeela 1 sports a minimalist and sleek exterior with a length of 193.5 inches, a 118.1-inch wheelbase, a width of 74.8 inches, and a height of 57.5 inches. It offers advanced connectivity with integrated 5G and Qualcomm Snapdragon Digital Chassis solutions, supporting over-the-air updates that keep the car’s software, infotainment, and ADAS systems continuously optimized.
Pricing and Availability
The Afeela 1 was announced with pricing at approximately $89,900 for the Origin trim and $102,900 for the Signature trim, which adds features like 21-inch wheels, a center camera monitoring system, and a rear entertainment system. Production is scheduled to begin in Ohio, USA, with delivery expected in mid-2026.
Data Table: Sony Honda Afeela 1 Key Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Motor Configuration | Dual electric motors producing 241 hp each (AWD) |
| Total Power Output | Approx. 480 hp |
| Battery Capacity | 91 kWh lithium-ion |
| Driving Range | Approx. 300 miles EPA |
| Charging | 150 kW DC fast charging via Tesla-compatible NACS |
| AI Processing Power | 800 TOPS AI-powered ECU |
| Sensors & Cameras | 40+ sensors: cameras, LiDAR, radars, ultrasonics |
| Infotainment System | Sony 360 Spatial Sound, multiple digital displays |
| Safety Level | Level 2+ Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) |
| Length | 193.5 inches |
| Wheelbase | 118.1 inches |
| Width | 74.8 inches |
| Height | 57.5 inches |
| Price (starting) | $89,900 (Origin), $102,900 (Signature) |
| Availability | Production starting 2026 in Ohio, USA |
Conclusion
The Sony Honda Afeela 1 heralds the electric future with a powerful blend of high-performance electric mobility, AI-infused advanced driver aids, and premium entertainment tech. Its focus on creating a secure, immersive, and connected driving experience makes it a unique contender in the competitive electric vehicle landscape, aiming to stand out through innovation and seamless integration of Sony’s entertainment prowess and Honda’s automotive expertise.
