Sony and Honda Join Forces to Launch EV, Afeela
Promising Cutting-Edge AI Technology
Sony and Honda have partnered under the Sony Honda Mobility joint venture to introduce Afeela, a cutting-edge electric vehicle (EV) slated for release in 2026. The Nihon Keizai Shimbun reports that Afeela will feature advanced artificial intelligence (AI) technology, significantly enhancing autonomous driving capabilities. This announcement places Afeela in direct competition with Tesla, which began integrating AI in its vehicles in 2023, and BYD, which is partnering with Huawei to add AI to its upcoming EVs.
AI Integration to Enhance Self-Driving Capabilities
Existing self-driving systems primarily rely on sensors and cameras to detect obstacles and control driving, with engineers manually programming the recognition and judgment processes. By integrating AI, however, driving functionalities can improve faster through continuous learning from real-world driving data. Additionally, AI can reduce the need for costly sensors, potentially lowering overall production costs.
Sony Honda Mobility plans to release AI-driven updates for Afeela’s self-driving capabilities once or twice a year. At launch, the vehicle is expected to support Level 3 autonomy, allowing for hands-free driving in specific conditions, such as highway travel, significantly reducing the need for driver intervention.
Performance Highlights: All-wheel drive and Impressive Power Output
Afeela will offer an all-wheel drive system powered by two electric motors, each generating 241 horsepower, for a combined 483 horsepower. The vehicle is equipped with a 91 kWh lithium-ion battery and supports 150kW DC fast and 11kW AC charging.
The front fascia features an integrated digital display, and LED strips connect the LED headlamps on both sides. The vehicle measures 4,915 mm(193.5 inches) in length, 1,900 mm(74.8 inches) in width, 1,460 mm(57.5 inches) in height, and has a wheelbase of 3,000 mm(118.1 inches).
Pre-orders Start in the First Half of Next Year
Prices Starting at Around $45,000
A U-shaped handle has been applied for the interior, and a panoramic screen that extends from the front of the driver’s seat to the passenger seat displays driving information, navigation, and in-vehicle infotainment. The Afeela’s starting price is expected to be around $45,000.
The Afeela will be produced at Honda’s Ohio plant in the US and sold Honda’svely online in North America and other major markets worldwide. It will be available for pre-order starting in the first half of next year, with deliveries expected to begin in the first quarter of 2026.
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