Honda & Sony Afeela 1 Release Date: Pre-Orders Open, Deliveries Mid-2026

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Written By Victor Mullen

Sony Honda Mobility (SHM) has announced the opening of pre-orders for its highly anticipated Afeela 1 electric vehicle (EV), with deliveries slated to begin in mid-2026 in the US and later in 2026 in Japan. Two trims, the Origin and Signature, will be available with starting prices of $89,900 and $102,900, respectively.

Pre-Orders and Delivery: What You Need to Know

Pre-orders for the Afeela 1 commenced on January 6, 2025, with a refundable $200 deposit required to secure a reservation. Initial deliveries will focus on California, with the Signature trim arriving first in mid-2026, followed by the Origin trim in 2027. Production will be based in Ohio. Japanese deliveries are expected sometime in 2026.

Afeela 1 Trims: A Quick Comparison

FeatureOriginSignature
Starting Price$89,900$102,900
Estimated Delivery2027Mid-2026
Wheels19-inch21-inch
Rear EntertainmentNoYes
C-CMSNoYes
ColorsCore BlackTidal Gray, Calm White, Core Black

The Signature trim offers premium upgrades such as larger wheels, a rear entertainment system, and the Center Camera Monitoring System (C-CMS), justifying its higher price point. The Origin trim provides a more streamlined approach, retaining core features and technology at a more accessible price.

A Deep Dive into Features and Technology

The Afeela 1 boasts an impressive array of features, emphasizing both advanced technology and entertainment.

Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS)

Equipped with approximately 40 sensors, including cameras, LiDAR, and radar, the Afeela 1 offers a robust Level 2+ ADAS, promising semi-autonomous driving capabilities. While the exact functionalities are yet to be fully detailed, this suggests a focus on enhanced safety and driver assistance.

Performance and Connectivity

An 800 TOPS ECU ensures powerful processing for a seamless driving experience. 5G connectivity keeps occupants connected on the go, while compatibility with the Tesla Supercharging network alleviates range anxiety. A targeted EPA range of around 300 miles further enhances practicality.

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Entertainment Reimagined

Leveraging Sony’s entertainment expertise, the Afeela 1 features a premium audio system with 360 Spatial Sound Technologies and noise cancellation. Personalized displays for each passenger, coupled with partnerships with leading entertainment providers, suggest a focus on creating a mobile entertainment hub.

Additional Features

An “Afeela Personal Agent” voice assistant adds convenience, allowing for voice-activated controls. The exterior “Media Bar” display enables communication with the outside world, though its practical applications remain to be seen.

Mobility as a Creative Entertainment Space

Sony Honda Mobility envisions the Afeela 1 as more than just a car – it’s a “Mobility as a Creative Entertainment Space.” This concept suggests a focus on seamlessly integrating entertainment, connectivity, and technology into the driving experience. While full details remain to be revealed, this points towards a unique approach to in-car experience.

The Future of Afeela: Software Updates

The Afeela 1 is designed for continuous improvement through over-the-air software updates. This approach suggests that the vehicle will evolve over time, gaining new features and refinements, ensuring a cutting-edge experience for owners.

Learn More and Pre-Order

Visit the official Afeela website to explore further details, view high-quality images and videos, and secure your pre-order.

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