The highly anticipated Sony Honda Mobility AFEELA 1 EV represents a watershed moment in automotive partnerships, merging Sony’s technological prowess with Honda’s manufacturing expertise. I was invited down to the popup showroom to experience the AFEELA 1 firsthand. After seeing the development over the years at CES in Las Vegas, I was excited for some dedicated time with the production version.
History of the AFEELA
This all-electric mid-size liftback emerges from years of development, beginning with Sony’s Vision-S concept, and promises to deliver a technology-forward approach to personal mobility.
Sony shocked the automotive world when it unveiled the Vision-S concept at CES 2020, showcasing what was ostensibly an exercise in automotive technology integration rather than a production intent vehicle. This early prototype evolved into the Vision-S 01, undergoing road testing to refine its systems before Sony announced a formal partnership with Honda in March 2022.
This joint venture, dubbed Sony Honda Mobility (SHM) and Sony Honda Mobility America (SHMA), represents Honda’s multi-pronged approach to electrification alongside its separate initiatives with General Motors and potential alliance with Nissan.
The transition from concept to production model culminated in the unveiling of the AFEELA 1 prototype at CES 2023, followed by the production version at CES 2025.
Throughout this evolution, SHM has maintained a consistent ethos centered on creating what they describe as an “interactive relationship between people and vehicles through the integration of advanced software and high-performance hardware”. This philosophy permeates every aspect of the AFEELA 1’s design and functionality.
While its specifications position it firmly in the luxury EV segment, industry reactions have been decidedly mixed, with praise for its technological integration but criticism for its value proposition relative to established competitors.
Exterior Design
The AFEELA 1’s exterior presents a deliberately understated aesthetic that prioritizes aerodynamic efficiency over dramatic styling flourishes.
Measuring 193.5 inches in length—approximately two inches shorter than a Honda Accord but with a wheelbase nearly seven inches longer—the vehicle’s proportions emphasize interior volume.
The sleek silhouette features minimal surface detailing, creating what some critics have characterized as a “nondescript” appearance.
The most distinctive exterior elements include the roof-mounted sensor array, which houses the LiDAR module and peripheral cameras that contribute to the vehicle’s advanced driver assistance capabilities.
This sensor pod, while highly functional, creates what others have described as a “bug-eyed look” that represents “the only bit of visual character in an otherwise bland design”.
The comprehensive sensor suite comprises 40 units (18 cameras, 1 LiDAR, 9 radars, and 12 ultrasonic sensors) that exceeds most competitors and provides infrastructure for future autonomous capabilities.
Another notable exterior feature is the “Media Bar,” an external LED display integrated into the front fascia that can display various messages to pedestrians and other road users. The Media Bar can also match the interior infotainment theme, whether its nature or relaxation, or a game like Gran Turismo, Astro Bot, or Fortnite.
I was welcomed to the car with a message. Note: The Media Bar was difficult to photograph with a mirrorless camera, and does not cut off text or images in person.
Interior Cabin and Technology Integrations
The AFEELA 1’s interior represents the convergence of automotive design and consumer electronics, featuring a door-to-door digital dashboard that evokes the interface aesthetics of PlayStation consoles. This expansive display serves as the centerpiece of a cabin with a minimalistic aesthetic with materials that feel high quality, without the flash of luxury.
The computational architecture achieves 800 TOPS (Trillion Operations Per Second), providing substantial headroom for the vehicle’s software capabilities to evolve. This processing power supports the “AFEELA Personal Agent,” an AI assistant designed for natural conversation with occupants.
The over-the-air update capabilities position the vehicle for continuous improvement, with SHM stating that “AFEELA 1 will continue to evolve as a new form of mobility that remains closely connected to people, through collaboration with creators and ongoing software updates”.
The E/E (Electrical/Electronic) architecture connects the vehicle’s ECUs and sensors through an advanced network designed to maximize overall performance, creating an integrated technological ecosystem rather than a collection of discrete features.
Navigation of this digital environment relies on a the touch screen display, which can be supplemented by the rotary controller positioned ahead of the center armrest and a uniquely oversized volume knob that controls the 28-speaker Dolby Atmos-enabled sound system and active noise cancellation technologies representing a genuine differentiator.
The control architecture extends to a U-shaped yoke-style steering wheel designed to optimize visibility of the digital instrumentation.
To take it a step further, an AI voice greets you upon entering the car and pressing the brake down. You are asked how you are and where you’d like to go, followed by queries as to whether you’d like to listen to music or the news.
Interior space prioritizes passenger comfort with dimensions comparable to the Lucid Air, while incorporating sustainable materials throughout—70% of interior surfaces utilize plant-based or recycled materials.
The design philosophy described by SHM positions the cabin as “Mobility as a Creative Entertainment Space” where “each occupant can enjoy a variety of apps and content provided by entertainment partners”.
The integration of PlayStation Remote Play functionality and the user interface developed in collaboration with Epic Games has resonated with technology enthusiasts seeking seamless digital lifestyle integration.
The customizable themes that coordinate ambient lighting with display interfaces represent another consumer electronics influence that distinguishes the AFEELA 1 from traditional automotive approaches.
The Powertrain
The AFEELA 1 employs a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive powertrain configuration with identical 241-horsepower (180 kW) motors at both front and rear axles, yielding a combined output of 483 horsepower (360 kW/490 PS).
While this power figure places it firmly in the premium segment, it falls short of similarly priced competitors like the 620-horsepower Lucid Air Touring or 670-horsepower Tesla Model S.
SHM has not disclosed acceleration metrics, but industry analysts estimate performance characteristics comparable to luxury EVs with similar power-to-weight ratios.
The vehicle’s underpinnings include an air-spring suspension system standard across all trim levels, which should provide adaptive ride characteristics suitable for both comfort-oriented cruising and more dynamic driving scenarios.
The chassis and powertrain have been engineered to provide what SHM describes as “a sense of unity with the driver, ensuring agile and stable handling while offering a high-quality ride for all passengers”.
This suggests a performance orientation that balances driver engagement with passenger comfort—a characteristic balance point for the luxury EV segment.
Battery and Range
Energy storage comes via a 91 kWh lithium-ion battery pack that provides an EPA-estimated range of approximately 300 miles. This capacity and resultant range position the AFEELA 1 at the lower end of the premium EV segment, with competitors like the Lucid Air Pure delivering 410 miles from similarly-sized battery packs.
The battery architecture interfaces with charging infrastructure via the North American Charging Standard (NACS, formerly Tesla’s proprietary standard), enabling access to Tesla’s extensive Supercharger network alongside other compatible charging stations. However, the maximum DC fast-charging rate of 150 kW represents another point of criticism, as competitors typically offer rates between 200-300 kW, significantly reducing charging time.
AC charging capabilities are likewise conservative at 11 kW, aligning with residential and workplace charging infrastructure but not pushing any boundaries for the segment.
Pricing
The AFEELA 1 will be offered in two distinct trim levels: the base Origin model priced at $89,900 and the upscale Signature model at $102,900. This pricing strategy positions the vehicle directly against established luxury EVs while introducing several caveats that have drawn industry scrutiny.
The base Origin model, while comprehensively equipped with the full sensor suite and air suspension, limits customers to black exterior paint and interior upholstery.
The Signature model adds 21-inch wheels (versus the Origin’s 19-inch units), a rear-seat entertainment system with headrest-mounted displays and HDMI input, and additional color options.
Another significant consideration is SHM’s subscription approach to software features. While the purchase price includes a three-year complimentary subscription to driver assistance functions, voice recognition, and other software features, these will transition to paid subscriptions thereafter. This approach aligns with emerging industry trends but represents an additional long-term cost consideration.
Reservations are currently open with a refundable $200 deposit, but initial availability will be restricted to California, with deliveries of the Signature model expected in mid-2026 followed by the Origin model in 2027.
Competitive Comparison
The AFEELA 1 enters a fiercely competitive luxury EV marketplace with established players offering compelling alternatives. The following comparison table illustrates how the AFEELA 1 positions against key competitors:
| Vehicle | Starting Price ($) | Range (miles) | Power (hp) | Charging Speed (kW) | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AFEELA 1 | 89,900 | 300 | 483 | 150 | 40 sensors, Sony audio, Media Bar, PlayStation connectivity |
| Lucid Air Pure | 77,800 | 410 | 430 | 300 | DreamDrive ADAS, Sleek design, Spacious interior |
| Lucid Air Touring | 91,300 | 406 | 620 | 300 | DreamDrive Pro ADAS (32 sensors), Panoramic glass roof |
| Tesla Model S | 75,000 | 405 | 670 | 250 | Autopilot, Yoke steering option, Gaming capability |
| BMW i7 eDrive50 | 105,700 | 321 | 536 | 195 | Theater screen, Luxurious interior, i7 prestige |
| Genesis G80 Electrified | 79,775 | 282 | 365 | 233 | Premium styling, Rapid charging, Luxury brand value |
While its sensor suite exceeds competitors and its entertainment integration represents unique Sony-derived value, its fundamental EV metrics—range, charging speed, and power-to-price ratio—lag behind established alternatives.
The AFEELA 1 represents an ambitious entry into the premium EV marketplace, leveraging Sony’s technological expertise and Honda’s manufacturing capabilities to create a distinctive mobility proposition.
Its comprehensive sensor suite, entertainment integration, and computational architecture demonstrates meaningful differentiation from established competitors, hoping to appeal to technology enthusiasts seeking a fresh approach to automotive design.
Article Last Updated: April 26, 2025.
- About the Author
- Latest Posts
Michael Kahn is the publisher of The Weekly Driver, serving as writer, photographer, and content creator. With a keen eye for storytelling and a passion for adventure, he specializes in uncovering the stories and experiences of automobile enthusiasts. Michael’s work is inspired by his love for off-the-beaten-path road trips, global exploration, and the pursuit of exceptional culinary experiences, all captured through the lens of a world traveler and automotive enthusiast.