Afeela’s EV concept is about autonomy, augmentation, and affinity, and it will arrive on North American shores in a similar form by 2026.
Last summer, Sony and Honda announced plans to jump into the EV market. Since then, there have been many speculations about the new venture’s plans for an electric vehicle. Finally, at CES 2023, Afeela is out with its first EV sedan concept that might come to fruition in the next few years.
There is still much to be revealed about the Sony Honda venture, but one thing’s for sure — customers can expect many innovative technologies embedded inside Afeela’s vehicles. Interestingly, the prototype doesn’t resemble the concept sedan Sony showed us in 2020. Changes over the Vision-S include more rounded edges, a sleek black roof, new headlights, and new wheels, giving the new prototype a more streamlined look.
A light bar takes the place of the usual grille, giving the Afeela sedan a very simple yet futuristic look. The middle of the light bar also features a tiny screen that will display details like the weather or the charging state of the vehicle.
The minimalist, futuristic theme continues inside the cabin too. Afeela will leverage Sony’s experience in AI, augmented reality, and virtual reality in its new sedan. Reportedly, the electric sedan has over 40 sensors, including cameras and radar devices, helping with the car’s advanced self-driving features.
Interactivity is another major goal that Afeela looks forward to achieving through its new vehicles. Yasuhide Mizuno, CEO of Sony Honda Mobility, said that the brand focuses on developing vehicles that recognize and understand people through AI.
Three recurrent themes will take the main stage for Afeela: autonomy, augmentation, and affinity. The newly-formed automaker will use Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Digital Chassis platform to power these systems.
But perhaps even more interesting for buyers is that the Afeela partnered with Epic Games to offer Fortnite and Unreal Engine inside the car. There are even rumors that the car will have a PlayStation 5 inside, which has the richest library of high-quality games available.
As far as we know, the preorders for the Afeela sedan open in 2025. The sedan will first hit the US in 2026 and then launch in Japan and Europe. An SUV and other models should follow soon.\
Gallery: Afeela Sedan Concept
