Honda has officially begun pre-production of Sony’s Afeela EV at their East Liberty plant in Ohio, marking an exciting step forward for Sony’s venture into the electric vehicle market. Deliveries of this innovative sedan are expected to commence in mid-2026.
This collaboration highlights Sony’s strategic approach to entering the EV space, leveraging Honda’s automotive expertise. The initial pre-production units are crucial for final testing phases, ensuring everything is polished before hitting the market.
The Afeela 1 made its debut four years ago, but its finalized version was showcased at the 2025 CES tech show. Sony plans to launch the vehicle in Japan in 2026, targeting the luxury car segment with two trims: the $89,900 Origin and the $102,900 Signature. Pre-orders are currently open with a $200 refundable deposit, with Californian deliveries scheduled first, followed by wider availability.
The sedan boasts a robust twin-motor powertrain delivering 480 hp and is powered by a 91 kWh battery, promising a range of around 300 miles on a full charge. It’s equipped with fast charging capabilities, able to reach a maximum rate of 150 kW.
In true Sony fashion, the Afeela 1 is packed with advanced electronics, including 40 sensors such as lidar, radar, ultrasonic, and cameras. A powerful ECU runs the vehicle’s intelligent systems, and passengers can enjoy Sony’s entertainment features on a wide screen, complemented by digital wing mirrors.
This collaboration with Honda allows Sony to focus on tech innovation, setting the Afeela 1 apart as a smart and luxurious driving experience.
