Unleash the Future: Pre-Order Your $89K Honda and Sony Electric Sedan Today!

Recall Sony’s intention to develop a fully electric sedan? Well, it’s on the verge of becoming real, as the sleek Afeela 1 showcased above is now available for pre-orders in California, with deliveries anticipated to start in mid-2026.

Need a brief history recap? Sony was initially established in 1946 under the name Tokyo Tsushin Kogyo. It evolved through the Walkman and the Discman, and in 1994 it unveiled the very first PlayStation. It also launched a series of robotic dogs from 1999 to 2006, and yes, now it’s venturing into the automotive sector.

Of course, not in isolation. Sony initially showcased its Vision-S prototype in January 2020, but it became concrete when it formalized a memorandum of understanding with Honda in 2022, leading to the creation of Sony Honda Mobility (SHM).

In 2023, SHM declared that its vehicles would be branded under the Afeela name, and we can confirm that this inaugural vehicle will be creatively designated… 1.

This vehicle will be offered in two configurations – Origin and Signature. The former serves as the base model, with prices commencing at $89,900. The premium Signature version will cost $102,900 but includes amenities such as 21-inch wheels, additional screens for rear-seat occupants, and extra cameras. A completely refundable $200 reservation fee is all that’s required to secure your spot on the list for now.

Although detailed technical specifications are currently limited, anticipate it to feature Honda components for the driving elements. Assembly will occur at a facility in Ohio, and we do know it has an EPA-estimated range of 300 miles, although specifics regarding battery capacity or power figures from the electric motors remain undisclosed.

SHM has revealed that the Afeela 1 employs 40 distinct sensors to facilitate autonomous driving and to operate its highly sophisticated advanced driver assistance systems. Additionally, it features a ‘Media Bar’ capable of displaying messages on the front bumper and “allows seamless communication between drivers, passengers, and even individuals outside the vehicle, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to public spaces”. We can’t foresee any complications should it hit the market in the UK. No siree. The Media Bar can also indicate your charging status or showcase ‘digital stickers,’ and there are intentions for the vehicle to display weather updates, traffic information, and even sports results. Fascinating.

As anticipated, the interior is replete with technology. A panoramic display spans across the dashboard and integrates with Sony’s surround sound and noise-cancellation features. Oh, and there’s a yoke. Uh oh.

Nevertheless, the impressive 3D maps and animations powered by Unreal Engine should keep you engaged with the (absence of a) steering wheel, though be cautious – the AI-enabled personal assistant within the vehicle can engage in ‘natural conversations’ and may even initiate dialogues while you are preoccupied. Reportedly, about 70 percent of the interior consists of plant-based or recycled materials, and Sony has collaborated with several major companies to incorporate specific applications and entertainment to the Afeela 1.

Think your next vehicle might be produced by the same team that created your gaming console?