Remember the anticipation for that new gadget you pre-ordered, the one that promised to change everything? That’s the vibe around Sony Honda Mobility’s (SHM) Afeela 1 EV. It’s packed with gaming and entertainment features, but while we’re still waiting for it to hit the streets, SHM just showed off something new: the Afeela Prototype 2026.
As an SEO Content Strategist and Tech-Storyteller, I’ve seen firsthand how excitement can build around new tech, and how important it is to deliver on those promises. So, let’s explore what SHM is cooking up and whether they’re on the right track to meet consumer expectations.
1. A Sneak Peek at the Afeela Prototype 2026
At a recent CES event in Las Vegas, SHM surprised everyone by rolling out the Afeela Prototype 2026 alongside a pre-production Afeela 1. At first glance, it resembled another Afeela 1 sedan, but a closer look revealed a larger, hatchback shape. This was our first glimpse of what some are calling the Afeela 2 (though that’s just a nickname for now).
Side-by-side, the Prototype 2026 appears as a more rounded, lifted crossover. It’s a subtle but noticeable shift in design. I remember seeing similar design tweaks when automakers started catering to the growing demand for SUVs; a little lift and suddenly it’s a whole new ballgame.
2. Why the Afeela Prototype 2026 Targets American Car Buyers
According to Shugo Yamaguchi, president and CEO at SHM of America, the Prototype is specifically designed with the American car buyer in mind. He mentioned that Americans often lean towards larger EVs offering more space and a higher driving position, much like SUVs. This insight highlights SHM’s strategy to tailor its vehicles to meet regional preferences.
It’s like when McDonald’s offers different menu items in different countries to cater to local tastes. SHM seems to be applying that same principle to car design. Smart move if they want to gain traction in the US market.
3. Afeela 1: Gaming on Wheels
While the Prototype 2026 offers a glimpse into the future, the Afeela 1 has been generating buzz for its gaming and entertainment capabilities, especially its PlayStation Remote Play and built-in movie screens. These features, showcased at CES, position the Afeela 1 as more than just a car; it’s an entertainment hub on wheels.
4. Is the Afeela 1 Becoming a Real Car?
After the CES event, media got an inside peek at a pre-production Afeela 1, confirming it’s evolving into a tangible product. The author even got hands-on with the yoke steering wheel and buttons. SHM stated that a Honda manufacturing plant in Ohio has begun trial production of the initial Afeela 1 models.
5. What is the expected range and charging capabilities of the Afeela 1?
SHM is keeping quiet about the exact battery specs, but the Afeela 1 is expected to have a range of around 300 miles (482 km) with dual motors and a 400-volt architecture, along with a NACS charging port. This silence on specifics feels a bit like waiting for a software update with no release notes – you know something’s coming, but you’re not sure what it includes.
6. Will Driving Still Matter?
SHM president and COO Izumi Kawanishi made an interesting statement: “Being in a car will no longer be about driving.” This suggests a shift in focus towards in-car experiences like gaming, entertainment, and connectivity, potentially reshaping how we perceive the role of cars in our lives.
7. How much will the Afeela 1 cost, and when will it be available?
SHM plans to begin delivering the Afeela 1 by the end of the year, initially to buyers in California. The Signature trim will start at $103,000 (approximately 95.000 EUR), with an Origin trim eventually available from $90,000 (around 83.000 EUR). Arizona fans can expect availability in 2027, coinciding with its debut in Japan. It’s a staggered rollout, like a movie premiere hitting different cities over time.
8. Level 4 Driving Capabilities
The Afeela will feature 40 sensors, including 18 cameras, one LiDAR unit, nine radars, and 12 ultrasonic sensors, even on the base trim. Yamaguchi has stated the goal is to achieve Level 4 driving abilities on city and highway roads, starting with a driver-assisted Level 2+ system supported by Qualcomm. Think of it as starting with training wheels before hitting the open road on a motorcycle.
9. What Kind of Tech Features Can We Expect?
Based on the Afeela 1’s features, including gaming, entertainment, a voice assistant, and generative AI (many powered by Qualcomm), the Sony side of the partnership seems to be taking the lead. The Afeela 1 also offers Zoom integration, enabling passengers to connect to video conferences from any seat.
10. How does the Afeela 1 leverage advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS)?
With a comprehensive suite of sensors, including cameras, LiDAR, radar, and ultrasonic sensors, the Afeela 1 aims to offer advanced driver assistance. This setup enables features like lane keeping, adaptive cruise control, and eventually, Level 4 autonomous driving capabilities. It’s like having a co-pilot that never gets tired or distracted.
11. Is the Afeela 1 just for entertainment, or does it have practical uses?
While the Afeela 1 emphasizes entertainment and gaming, it also integrates practical features like Zoom for video conferencing. This suggests that SHM aims to blend leisure with productivity, catering to professionals who need to stay connected on the go. Imagine closing a deal while cruising down the highway – that’s the vision.
12. What is the Afeela 1, and how does it fit into the future of electric vehicles?
The Afeela 1 represents a blend of automotive engineering and consumer electronics, aiming to redefine the driving experience. By integrating gaming, entertainment, and advanced connectivity, SHM is positioning the Afeela 1 as a lifestyle product rather than just a mode of transportation. Will this strategy set a new standard for EVs? What do you think?