Sony and Honda Confirm Afeela EV for Late 2026
Sony Honda Mobility (SHM) has officially announced that the $90,000 Afeela 1 electric vehicle will reach customers in the U.S. by late 2026. The news answers the growing curiosity from tech and EV enthusiasts about when Sony’s ambitious EV project will become a reality. Alongside the Afeela 1, SHM unveiled a new SUV concept, signaling plans for production as early as 2028.
The Afeela 1 stands out with a design closely mirroring its pre-production model. Fans will notice short overhangs, a long wheelbase, and a noticeably larger footprint. Despite keeping many technical details under wraps, SHM CEO Yasuhide Mizuno described the SUV as an “early-stage concept,” hinting at future refinements before it hits production lines.
Trial Production Underway in Ohio
SHM is moving quickly toward full-scale manufacturing. Trial production of the Afeela 1 is already underway at Honda’s East Liberty Auto Plant in Ohio. The company plans phased demo drives for early reservation holders, giving them a chance to experience the vehicle before the official rollout. By 2027, SHM aims to expand U.S. sales beyond California, beginning with Arizona. Japanese customers can expect deliveries to commence in early 2027.
A Driving Experience Focused on Entertainment
Unlike many traditional EVs, the Afeela 1 appears designed as much for digital engagement as for driving. The cabin features a wide dashboard screen, advanced all-wheel-drive systems, and 40 sensors and cameras supporting semi-autonomous driving. SHM also teased augmented reality and “virtual worlds” integration, offering an immersive driving experience tailored to tech-savvy customers.
SUV Concept Points to 2028 Production
The newly revealed SUV concept emphasizes SHM’s broader EV ambitions. While it remains an early-stage model, the design suggests a focus on spaciousness, technology, and premium appeal. SHM plans to translate this concept into a production vehicle by 2028, further expanding the Afeela lineup and positioning the brand in the competitive U.S. EV market.
Early Reservations and Demo Drives
SHM encourages early adopters to reserve the Afeela 1 and participate in phased demo drives. These previews will provide firsthand experiences of the car’s entertainment-focused features, helping buyers understand how the vehicle blends autonomous technology, virtual content, and traditional driving. The strategy highlights Sony’s unique approach to EVs as entertainment platforms on wheels.
A Tech-Fueled EV Future
Sony and Honda’s collaboration reflects a new wave of automakers prioritizing digital experiences alongside performance. As delivery timelines approach, anticipation is building for both the Afeela 1 and the SUV concept. With advanced infotainment, semi-autonomous capabilities, and immersive tech integration, SHM is carving a distinctive niche in the evolving EV landscape.
Comment