In January 2023, Sony Honda Mobility (SHM) made waves at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas by unveiling a prototype under their new brand, “Afeela.” Fast forward two years, and this joint venture between Sony and Honda has officially entered the competitive electric vehicle (EV) market with the launch of their first EV, the Afeela 1, during CES 2025. This marks a milestone for SHM, signaling their serious intent to redefine the future of mobility.

Afeela 1: Design, Trims, and Pricing

The Afeela 1 is not just an EV; it’s a statement. Offered in two trims, the Origin and the Signature, the vehicle caters to the premium luxury market. The Origin starts at $89,900, while the Signature takes it a notch higher at $102,900. 

For this price, the Signature adds impressive upgrades, including 21-inch wheels, a rear entertainment system, and a center camera monitoring system.

Exterior color options include Tidal Gray, Calm White, and Core Black, while buyers can choose between black or gray interior themes. These premium touches clearly position Afeela 1 in the same league as the Genesis G90, BMW 7-Series, and Audi A8.

Technology &  Features

Sony’s tech expertise shines through in Afeela 1’s cutting-edge features:

Afeela Intelligent Drive: A Level 2+ driver assistance system supported by 40 sensors.

Afeela Personal Agent: An AI voice assistant designed for seamless in-car functionality and engaging conversations.

Entertainment Integration: Includes a three-year subscription to entertainment content, customizable screen themes, and 5G connectivity.

After the initial three years, owners will need to subscribe to access these features, with pricing details yet to be announced. Adding to its uniqueness is the Media Bar on the front bumper, which communicates with pedestrians by displaying information like charging status and traffic updates—a thoughtful touch in urban environments.

A Living Room on Wheels

The Afeela 1’s interior is designed for comfort and entertainment, aiming to create a mobility space that feels more like a living room. It features:

  • A panoramic dashboard screen.
  • Sony’s advanced surround sound system.
  • An AI personal assistant capable of engaging in natural conversations.

The emphasis on creating a “mobility space” highlights SHM’s vision of merging transportation with relaxation and connection.

Performance & Range

From a performance standpoint, the Afeela 1 delivers impressive specifications that align with its premium positioning in the EV market. It aims to provide a range of 300 miles on a robust 91.0-kWh lithium-ion battery, ensuring reliability for long journeys. 

Charging convenience is enhanced with a NACS-style port, making the vehicle compatible with Tesla’s expansive Supercharging network. 

The powertrain boasts an all-wheel-drive setup powered by dual 241-hp electric motors, strategically placed on each axle to ensure balanced performance. Complementing this is the inclusion of air suspension, which promises a smooth and refined driving experience, even on varied terrains.

Availability & Future Prospects

The Afeela 1 will be assembled in Ohio, with California as its initial market. Reservations are now open on SHM’s website for a refundable fee of $200. While the Signature trim will be available in 2026, buyers opting for the Origin will have to wait until 2027.

With its blend of cutting-edge technology, luxury, and unique features, the Afeela 1 positions itself as a strong contender in the EV market, aiming to challenge Tesla and other established players.

Sony and Honda’s collaboration has resulted in a vehicle that’s not just a means of transportation but a vision of what the future of mobility could be—smart, stylish, and deeply connected.