sonicHonda compact vehicle, the Afeela 1, initiates preliminary manufacturing phase in East Liberty, Ohio.
The automotive landscape is about to witness a new contender as Sony Honda Mobility prepares to launch the Afeela 1, a tech-forward electric sedan. Positioned as a challenger to vehicles like the Tesla Model S, Lucid Air, and high-end offerings from German automakers, the Afeela 1 promises an immersive in-cabin experience and cutting-edge technology.
Powertrain and Performance
The Afeela 1 is equipped with dual 180-kilowatt motors, providing all-wheel drive with a combined output of around 480 horsepower. The car is powered by a 91 kWh battery pack, offering an estimated range of about 300 miles (around 500 km). It supports charging at up to 150 kW, including compatibility with Tesla’s NACS Superchargers.
Sensors and Autonomy
Safety and autonomy are at the heart of the Afeela 1's design. Over 40 to 45 sensors, including lidar, radar, ultrasonic, and optical cameras, provide a 360° view. These feed data to a powerful onboard computer, enabling Level 3 autonomous driving capabilities, handling highway driving, lane changes, and some urban scenarios. Safety features like predictive collision avoidance, adaptive cruise control, and automated parking are also included.
Interior Technology and Customization
The Afeela 1's interior is a showcase for Sony's prowess in sensors, artificial intelligence, and user interface design. The car features an extensive infotainment system, including a wide dashboard screen spanning the front width and separate 12.9-inch LED screens for rear passengers. Advanced surround sound audio systems supporting spatial audio and active noise canceling are also included. Customizable features such as in-cabin themed wallpaper, ambient lighting, and adjustable e-motor sounds add a personal touch.
Connectivity and User Experience
The Afeela 1 seamlessly integrates with smartphones, cloud services, and smart home devices. Over-the-air updates keep the system current, ensuring a consistently smooth user experience. 3D mapping displays integrated into the expansive screen layout further enhance the in-car experience.
Manufacturing Quality
Manufacturing processes for the Afeela 1 have been optimized for consistency at its price point. The car is being produced at Honda’s East Liberty plant in Ohio with extremely high standards for surface finish, precision panel fitting, and a specialized polishing process unique to the model. It also undergoes a proprietary "Quality Gate" inspection post-production by Sony Honda Mobility to ensure exceptional quality.
The Afeela 1 will come in two trims: the Origin and the Signature, with starting prices of approximately $89,900 and $102,900 respectively. The Signature model is scheduled for delivery in mid-2026, while the Origin will follow in 2027.
The Afeela 1's production marks a bold foray for Sony into the automotive industry, where the company hopes to achieve scale through Honda's manufacturing backbone. It also represents Honda's commitment to electrification and its acceleration toward phasing out internal combustion vehicles in major markets.
Prototype testing for the Afeela 1 has taken place on multiple continents, and the launch will be one of the most closely watched stories in the evolving EV landscape. The Afeela 1's emphasis on digital life could give it an edge among tech-savvy buyers, making it a significant player in the future of electric vehicles.
[1] Sony Honda Mobility Afeela 1 Specs and Features [2] Sony Honda Mobility Afeela 1: First Look [3] Sony Honda Mobility Afeela 1: What We Know So Far [4] Sony Honda Mobility Afeela 1: Autonomous Driving Capabilities [5] Sony Honda Mobility Afeela 1: Quality and Manufacturing
Read also:
- Show a modicum of decency, truly
- Latest updates for July 31: Introduction of Ather 450S with expanded battery, unveiling of new Tesla dealership, and additional news
- VinFast's debut EV plant in India, Tata Harrier EV distribution starts, next-gen Mahindra Bolero sightings caught on camera
- Tesla-powered residences in Houston create a buyers' frenzy
