Sony and Honda have taken their collaboration from concept to reality with the Afeela 1. Packed with features reminiscent of other top-tier vehicles, the electric sedan aims high but stumbles on charging performance. So: High Hopes, Mixed Results?
Familiar Yet Fresh
Japan’s auto industry is entering a new era. In a bold move, Sony and Honda have joined forces under the Sony Honda Mobility (SHM) banner. At CES 2025, they unveiled the Afeela 1, a near-production prototype that embodies their vision of „intelligent mobility.“ The name „Afeela“ hints at a deeper connection between car and driver, a concept CEO Yasuhide Mizuno describes as enhancing human-machine synergy. While the rhetoric feels familiar – echoing many Chinese automakers – the execution is decidedly unique.
Visually, the Afeela 1 combines design cues from established players, blending Lucid’s sleek elegance with Tesla’s minimalist sophistication. It’s a deliberate move, aiming to craft a vehicle that feels both innovative and approachable. Interestingly, Afeela 1 owners will be able to charge at Tesla’s Supercharger network, a practical nod to the car’s intended versatility.
However, its 300-mile (483 km) range and 150 kW peak charging capacity are less impressive. For a vehicle with a 91-kWh battery, this means longer stops at charging stations – something its competitors handle far better.
High-Tech Interior with lots of Sony Hi-Fi
Inside, the Afeela 1 doesn’t shy away from making a statement. A panoramic display spans the dashboard, echoing the luxe interiors of premium brands like Lincoln. Rear passengers are treated to two large entertainment screens, creating a lounge-like atmosphere. The futuristic yoke-style steering wheel, reminiscent of Tesla’s Cybertruck, hints at Steer-by-Wire technology. Here’s hoping SHM has refined the system to avoid the mixed reviews Tesla’s yoke received.
The infotainment system transforms the Afeela 1 into a high-tech sanctuary. Powered by Sony, it seamlessly integrates popular platforms like Amazon, Spotify, TikTok, and Audible. The car also supports voice commands via smartphone, as demonstrated during its CES debut.
The Afeela 1 doesn’t just rely on style – it’s packed with tech. Equipped with 40 sensors and cameras, it outguns even the radar-heavy Nio ET9. At launch, it will support Level 2++ autonomous driving, with future updates likely to expand its capabilities.
Simplified Choices, Premium Pricing
The Afeela 1 launches with two trim levels. The base Origin starts at $89,900, while the top-tier Signature costs $102,900. The Signature trim includes rear-seat entertainment screens, a Center Camera Monitoring System (C-CMS) to oversee the cabin, and 21-inch alloy wheels.
The purchasing process mirrors Tesla’s simplicity: customers can choose from three exterior colors (Tidal Gray, Calm White, Core Black) and two interior options (Black, Gray), with a $200 deposit required to secure a reservation.
Afeela 1: Final Thoughts
The Afeela 1 is an ambitious debut, blending Sony’s tech expertise with Honda’s automotive heritage. However, its modest charging speeds and middle-of-the-pack range may dampen enthusiasm among EV buyers accustomed to faster, more convenient options.
Still, its stylish design, advanced technology, and competitive pricing could make it a serious contender in the crowded EV market when it arrives in summer 2025. Whether it truly „feels“ revolutionary remains to be seen.
