Sony and Honda’s Afeela Electric Car: A $89,900 Luxury EV That’s Ready to Impress
Sony and Honda’s much-anticipated electric vehicle, the Afeela 1, is finally here—or at least, it’s available for preorder. After five years of development, the first car from the Sony Honda Mobility joint venture is gearing up for production, and it’s already making waves in the luxury EV market.
Unveiled at CES 2025, the Afeela 1 is a sleek, tech-packed electric sedan that aims to compete with the likes of Tesla and Lucid. With a starting price of $89,900, this luxury EV is packed with cutting-edge features, semi-autonomous driving capabilities, and a design that screams sophistication. However, for now, it will only be available to buyers in California.
Here’s everything you need to know about the Afeela 1, from pricing and features to specs and availability.
Contents
Afeela 1 Pricing and Trims
The Afeela 1 will be available in two trims:
- Afeela 1 Origin: Starting at $89,900
- Afeela 1 Signature: Starting at $102,900
Both trims come with a complimentary three-year subscription to in-car features, including:
- Level 2+ driver assistance for semi-autonomous driving.
- An AI-powered personal assistant to enhance the driving experience.
Preorders are now open, but there’s a catch: the Afeela 1 is currently only available to buyers in California. Interested customers can secure their spot with a refundable $200 deposit.
Delivery Timeline
- Afeela 1 Signature: Deliveries will begin in 2026.
- Afeela 1 Origin: Deliveries are expected in 2027.
Performance and Range
The Afeela 1 is designed to deliver a premium driving experience, with specs that cater to both performance enthusiasts and tech-savvy drivers.
- Range: Up to 300 miles of EPA-estimated range on a single charge.
- Charging: Built-in support for Tesla’s Supercharger network, thanks to its native NACS (North American Charging Standard) port.
While the range is competitive, the Afeela 1’s integration with Tesla’s charging network is a major advantage, ensuring convenient access to one of the most extensive EV charging infrastructures in the U.S.
Design: A Blend of Tesla and Lucid Air
The Afeela 1 boasts a sleek, futuristic design that combines elements of a Tesla Model S and a Lucid Air. With short overhangs, a long wheelbase, and a minimalist aesthetic, the Afeela 1 is designed to turn heads.
Exterior Highlights
- Core Black Paint: Currently the only color option available.
- All-Wheel Drive: Ensures stability and performance in various driving conditions.
The design is not just about looks—it’s also functional, with a focus on aerodynamics and efficiency.
Tech-Packed Interior: Screens, Sensors, and More
Step inside the Afeela 1, and you’ll find a cabin that’s as futuristic as its exterior. Sony’s expertise in technology is on full display, with a focus on creating an immersive and connected driving experience.
Interior Features
- Screens Across the Dashboard: A full-width display that provides navigation, entertainment, and vehicle information.
- 40 Sensors and Cameras: Enable semi-autonomous driving and advanced safety features.
- Augmented Reality Integration: Hints at a futuristic driving experience with virtual worlds embedded into the interface.
- Voice Commands: During the CES demo, the CEO summoned the car onstage by saying, “Come on out, Afeela,” showcasing the potential for voice-activated controls.
The Afeela 1 is designed to be more than just a car—it’s a tech hub on wheels, blending luxury with innovation.
Afeela’s Journey: From Concept to Reality
The Afeela 1 has come a long way since Sony first introduced its Vision-S concept in 2020. Over the past five years, the EV market has undergone significant changes, and Sony Honda Mobility has adapted to meet the evolving demands of consumers.
Key Milestones
- 2020: Sony unveils the Vision-S concept, sparking interest in its automotive ambitions.
- 2022: Sony and Honda announce their joint venture, Sony Honda Mobility.
- 2025: Afeela 1 is unveiled at CES, with preorders opening for California buyers.
The Afeela 1 represents Sony’s first foray into the automotive sector, and it’s clear that the company is aiming to compete with the top players in the luxury EV space.
Challenges and Opportunities
While the Afeela 1 is packed with impressive features, it faces several challenges:
- Limited Availability: For now, the Afeela 1 is only available in California, which could limit its initial market impact.
- High Price Point: Starting at $89,900, the Afeela 1 is positioned as a luxury EV, which may not appeal to budget-conscious buyers.
- Competition: The luxury EV market is crowded, with established players like Tesla, Lucid, and Mercedes-Benz already dominating the space.
However, the Afeela 1 also has unique advantages:
- Sony’s Tech Expertise: The integration of advanced technology, such as augmented reality and AI-powered features, sets it apart from competitors.
- Tesla Supercharger Access: Built-in support for Tesla’s charging network is a major selling point.
What’s Next for Afeela?
Sony Honda Mobility isn’t stopping with the Afeela 1. The company has plans to expand its lineup and improve the customer experience. A second press conference is scheduled to outline the shopping and ownership experience for Afeela customers, hinting at a seamless and tech-driven process.
Afeela 1 – A Bold Step into the Future
The Afeela 1 is more than just a car—it’s a statement of intent from Sony and Honda. With its sleek design, advanced technology, and competitive specs, the Afeela 1 is poised to make a splash in the luxury EV market.
While its high price and limited availability may pose challenges, the Afeela 1’s unique features and Sony’s tech-driven approach give it a strong chance to stand out in a crowded market.
As deliveries begin in 2026, all eyes will be on Sony Honda Mobility to see if the Afeela 1 can live up to the hype and carve out its place in the EV world.
