Sony Honda Mobility (SHM) has officially entered the electric vehicle arena with the unveiling of the Afeela 1 at CES 2025. This isn’t just another electric car; SHM envisions the Afeela 1 as an intelligent mobility partner, seamlessly blending cutting-edge technology, personalized experiences, and a focus on both driver engagement and passenger comfort. Californian consumers will be the first to experience this new era of mobility, with online reservations opening immediately and sales slated for later this year, followed by deliveries in mid-2026.
The Afeela 1 arrives in two trims: the Origin, starting at $89,900, and the Signature, priced at $102,900. Both come with a compelling 3-year subscription package that includes access to the car’s advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS), a personalized AI agent, a curated selection of entertainment content, and robust 5G connectivity. This subscription model underscores SHM’s commitment to ongoing software updates and feature enhancements, ensuring the Afeela 1 remains at the forefront of automotive technology.
SHM’s vision for the Afeela 1 goes beyond simply transporting people from point A to point B. They aim to foster a genuine connection between driver and vehicle, positioning the Afeela 1 as a “buddy” on the road. This is achieved through a combination of meticulously crafted hardware and sophisticated software, designed to create an interactive and intuitive driving experience.
At the heart of the Afeela 1’s intelligent capabilities is the AFEELA Intelligent Drive system. This comprehensive ADAS suite utilizes 40 sensors—a combination of cameras, LiDAR, radar, and ultrasonic sensors—to create a detailed understanding of the vehicle’s surroundings. Coupled with a powerful onboard computer boasting 800 TOPS of processing power and advanced AI algorithms, this system provides enhanced driver assistance across all aspects of driving, from navigating city streets to highway cruising and even parking, reducing driver stress and boosting safety.
The Afeela Personal Agent elevates the in-car experience further. This interactive AI companion responds to natural voice commands, allowing drivers to control various vehicle functions, engage in casual conversation, and even receive personalized activity suggestions. This personalized touch transforms travel time into a more engaging and enjoyable experience.
Recognizing the importance of in-car entertainment, SHM has transformed the Afeela 1’s cabin into a mobile entertainment hub. Each occupant can enjoy tailored content through an optimized sound system featuring Sony’s renowned 360 Spatial Sound technology, creating an immersive audio experience. Collaborations with external creators and developers promise to deliver unique entertainment experiences based on real-time driving and vehicle data.
Performance is also a key consideration. The Afeela 1 is engineered to provide a sense of unity between driver and machine, offering agile handling and a smooth, comfortable ride. The 3D Motion Management System, incorporating advanced posture control technology, optimizes ride comfort and handling across diverse road surfaces. Noise and vibration reduction further enhance the in-cabin experience, allowing passengers to fully immerse themselves in the available entertainment options.
The Afeela 1’s design reflects its forward-thinking approach. Both the interior and exterior embrace an “Oval Cabin” concept, prioritizing passenger comfort and showcasing a harmonious, timeless aesthetic. The interior uses high-quality, sustainable materials, with approximately 70% of the interior surface area utilizing plant-derived and recycled sources.
With online reservations now open for California residents and deliveries expected in mid-2026, the Afeela 1 is poised to make a significant impact on the electric vehicle landscape. By combining advanced technology, personalized experiences, and a focus on both driver and passenger well-being, Sony Honda Mobility is not just building a car; they are building a new kind of mobile experience.