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The tech giant Sony is combining forces with automaker Honda to create an electric car range under the Afeela brand. Beyond the much-anticipated 2025 electric sedan, reports are hinting at the arrival of two more models before 2030’s arrival.
According to a report by Nikkei, Afeela is expected to introduce an SUV by 2027 and an “affordable” compact vehicle projected for 2028 to 2030. It is also mentioned that Sony Honda Mobility is planning to increase its workforce to nearly 500 employees.
Chris Tsui
The forthcoming models will share a unified chassis, modified from Honda’s innovative 0 Series platform. Honda itself is set to debut an electric vehicle based on its Saloon concept in 2026, aligning with the Afeela sedan but preceding the Afeela SUV.
As expected from Sony, a pioneer in consumer electronics, the upcoming Afeela vehicles are anticipated to be tech-centric. Augmented reality features are being showcased, and Level 3 autonomous driving has been pledged. Polyphony Digital, the studio behind the acclaimed Gran Turismo series, is said to be contributing to the development of Afeela vehicles, though the specifics are not yet disclosed.
Chris Tsui
The Afeela sedan was displayed briefly at this year’s Consumer Electronics Show, where its prototype showcased a large screen across the dashboard and a PlayStation controller in the center console, highlighting the vehicle’s heavy tech influence. An additional screen between the headlights cycled between promotions for Fortnite and Crunchyroll, providing a unique multimedia experience.
Whether all these cutting-edge features will be retained in the production version of the Afeela is still uncertain, but Sony’s aggressive timeline suggests that the market won’t have to wait too long to find out.
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FAQ Section
What is Afeela?
Afeela is the brand name for the collaboration between Sony and Honda to produce electric vehicles. The brand will be launching a variety of EVs, starting with a sedan in 2025.
What models can we expect from Afeela?
Currently, Afeela plans include an electric sedan scheduled for 2025, an SUV by 2027, and an affordable compact vehicle sometime between 2028 and 2030.
Will Afeela vehicles feature autonomous driving technology?
Yes, Sony has promised Level 3 automated driving for its Afeela vehicles, which indicates a significant level of automation where the car can handle most driving tasks but still requires human intervention under certain conditions.
Is there a partnership with Gran Turismo developers for Afeela cars?
Yes, Polyphony Digital, developers of the Gran Turismo game series, are reportedly contributing to the development of Afeela cars, though their exact role remains unspecified at this time.
Conclusion
The collaboration between Sony and Honda is shaping up to be a game-changer in the electric vehicle market. With plans for multiple vehicles, including a highly anticipated sedan, an SUV, and a compact car, Afeela looks poised to offer both innovation and variety in the burgeoning electric car segment. While there are still unanswered questions about the specifics of the technology and features, the commitment to high-tech, including autonomous driving capabilities and multimedia integration, signifies that Afeela aims to set new standards in the EV industry. As the decade progresses, the automotive landscape will undoubtedly feel the impact of this partnership.
