The much-anticipated Afeela 1, the brainchild of a joint venture between tech giant Sony and automotive powerhouse Honda, is finally inching closer to reality. This sleek and innovative electric sedan, designed to redefine the driver-vehicle relationship, has been years in the making. At the recent CES technology show, the Afeela brand officially opened its reservation book for Californian customers, marking a significant step towards its mid-2026 market launch.
However, this cutting-edge mobility experience comes at a premium. The Afeela 1 will be available in two distinct trims: the Origin and the flagship Signature model. Prices for the Origin start at a substantial $89,900, while the Signature commands a hefty $102,900. Both price points position the Afeela 1 squarely in competition with high-end electric sedans like the Lucid Air and the Tesla Model S.
To secure their place in line, prospective buyers can now place a $200 refundable deposit. While initial sales will be limited to California, Afeela has not yet announced its expansion plans to other regions.
A key differentiator for the Afeela 1 is its emphasis on advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). The vehicle boasts "Afeela Intelligent Drive," a proprietary system that leverages a sophisticated array of sensors, including cameras, radars, ultrasonic sensors, and LiDAR, to enhance safety and convenience. However, the specific level of autonomy offered by this system remains to be seen.
The Afeela 1, with its estimated range of 483 kilometers (approximately 300 miles) on a single charge, will also benefit from compatibility with the Tesla Supercharging network at launch, providing drivers with convenient and widespread charging options.
While the production model retains the essence of last year's prototype, it incorporates several refinements. The Afeela 1 will be available in a limited color palette, offering buyers a choice between Tidal Gray, Calm White, and Core Black, echoing Tesla's minimalist approach to vehicle customization.
The Signature model, priced significantly higher than the Origin, will feature a range of premium enhancements, including 21-inch wheels, a dedicated rear entertainment system for passengers, and an advanced central camera monitoring system, further enhancing the in-car experience.
Afeela's entry into the luxury electric vehicle market signifies a bold move by the Sony-Honda partnership. By combining Sony's expertise in entertainment and technology with Honda's automotive engineering prowess, Afeela aims to redefine the driving experience, offering a seamless blend of cutting-edge technology, sophisticated design, and advanced driver-assistance features. However, the high price point and initial limited availability may pose challenges in a rapidly evolving and fiercely competitive market.