Honda-Sony Alliance Set to Launch Electric Sedan “Afeela 1” in 2026
In 2023, Sony Honda Mobility (SHM) — a joint venture between Honda and tech giant Sony — announced their first production vehicle, the all-electric Afeela 1. At CES 2025 in Las Vegas, the alliance unveiled the near-production version of the car, marking the beginning of their entry into the EV market.
Launch Date and Pre-Order
Afeela 1 is expected to hit the U.S. market in 2026, with California as the first state to receive it. Pre-orders are already open with a refundable deposit of just $200.
Exterior Design
The Afeela 1 features a larger-than-average sedan body and a sleek, minimalist design:
- Length: 4,915 mm
- Wheelbase: 3,018 mm
- Height: 1,460 mm
- Sloping roofline for a sporty look
- Slim headlights and a thin light strip across a closed front grille
- Front suspension: Double-wishbone
- Rear suspension: Multi-link
- Active rear spoiler for aerodynamic performance
Interior and Technology
Inside, the Afeela 1 offers a futuristic and immersive cabin experience:
- Wide panoramic display across the dashboard
- Uniquely shaped steering wheel
- Afeela Personal Agent system with voice control
- Supports apps like Spotify, TikTok, and Zoom
- Advanced sound insulation and seat-specific audio system
- Sustainable materials: 70% of interior components are made from recycled or eco-friendly materials
Safety and Smart Features
Equipped with cutting-edge autonomous driving and safety technology:
- Afeela Intelligent Drive system
- Over 40 sensors, including:
- Cameras
- Lidar
- Radar
- Ultrasonic sensors
These features enable safe, intelligent driving experiences.
Powertrain and Performance
The Afeela 1 delivers solid performance with dual motors:
- Two electric motors (one per axle), each producing 241 hp — total output: 482 hp
- 91 kWh lithium-ion battery
- Supports 150 kW DC fast charging
- Comparable to the Honda 0 Series Saloon in specs and performance
Final Thoughts
The Afeela 1 is more than just an electric car — it’s a smart, tech-forward mobility platform that blends advanced technology with premium performance. It represents the future of intelligent EVs, offering an all-new driving experience tailored for the modern world.