Sony Honda Afeela 1: A Revolutionary Electric Vehicle Takes Shape
Honda has now started manufacturing Sony's electrical vehicle, the Afeela 1.
The Sony Honda Afeela 1, a joint venture between tech giant Sony and automotive powerhouse Honda, is making significant strides towards becoming a reality. Here's a look at the development process and key features of this much-anticipated electric vehicle.
Development Process
The development of the Afeela 1 has been a collaborative effort, with Sony Honda Mobility overseeing the project. The process began with pre-production trials at Honda's East Liberty Auto Plant in Ohio, where the focus is on ensuring the vehicle can be mass-produced while maintaining high quality standards.
Honda serves as the contract manufacturing partner, bringing its extensive automotive experience to the table. Sony Honda Mobility, on the other hand, implements additional quality measures specific to the Afeela 1 to deliver the vehicle with exceptional precision and refined quality.
The assembly line is being customized with bespoke assembly fixtures to ensure consistent accuracy throughout the production process. Early prototypes are being built using custom-built jigs to test how components fit together.
The Afeela 1 is expected to go on sale in mid-2026, with reservations already open at a refundable deposit of $200. The vehicle will be available in two trims: the Origin model starting at $89,900 and the Signature model at $102,900.
Partnership Details
The partnership between Sony and Honda is structured around Sony Honda Mobility, a joint venture that leverages Honda's manufacturing expertise and Sony's technological capabilities. Honda handles the production at its East Liberty plant, while Sony Honda Mobility focuses on ensuring the vehicle meets high-quality standards and incorporates cutting-edge technology.
The Afeela 1 is designed to appeal to tech enthusiasts, featuring advanced entertainment options like surround sound and audiophile-quality music. It also includes 40 sensors and AI technology for enhanced safety and performance.
The Afeela 1's battery pack capacity is 91 kWh, and it has a maximum charge rate of 150 kW. Each rear passenger gets a 12.9-inch LED screen, and the front passengers are greeted by a screen spanning the entire width of the dashboard.
The estimated range of the Afeela 1 is 300 miles. The vehicle is equipped with a pair of electric motors each producing 240 horsepower. The Afeela 1's onboard entertainment system includes active noise cancelling, spatial audio support, and displays for both front and rear passengers.
The Afeela 1 was first revealed four years ago by Sony and has since undergone significant development. It was initially available only in California, with a Japan launch expected next year. Pre-production Afeela cars are expected to be seen on the streets later this year.
This collaboration marks a significant step into the electric vehicle market for both companies, combining Sony's technology with Honda's manufacturing prowess. The first deliveries of the Afeela 1 are expected to begin in mid-2026.
- The Sony Honda Afeela 1, with its advanced technology features like surround sound and 40 sensors, showcases the collaboration between the finance and technology industries, as Sony leverages its technological capabilities, while the automotive industry's expertise is provided by Honda.
- As the Afeela 1 project progresses, with its potential for significant sales revenue, it highlights the strategic inclusion of the transportation and finance industries, as the vehicle will be powered by electric technology and provided at varying price points for the Origin and Signature models.
