AUTO

Preorders Open for the Sony-Honda Afeela Electric Car, Only in California

January 9, 2025

Afeela starts at $89,900 only available for preorder in California.
300-mile range with Tesla Supercharger compatibility included.
Features AI assistant, 40 sensors, and full-width dashboard screens.

What do you get when a tech giant joins forces with an automotive veteran? A car that could practically moonlight as a gadget showroom. Sony and Honda’s electric vehicle, the Afeela, is finally here, or, well, almost. Preorders have opened, but there’s a catch: unless you’re in California, this dream car remains a dream for now.

Preorder Now Open for the Sony-Honda Afeela Electric Car, Only in California

Is the Afeela Worth Its Price Tag?

Starting at $89,900, the Afeela 1 Origin is not exactly budget-friendly. If you’re feeling fancy, the $102,900 Afeela 1 Signature might catch your eye. Both trims come with a complimentary three-year subscription to some genuinely impressive tech, including a Level 2+ driver-assist system and an AI-powered personal assistant. But is the steep price justified, or is this just another flashy entry in the luxury EV market?

Afeela Electric Car Debuts Futuristic Tech and Voice Commands

With its minimalist design that some might compare to a Tesla or Lucid Air, the Afeela doesn’t scream for attention. It speaks in a quiet, confident tone. Its interior is where things get futuristic.

“We’ve integrated screens across the width of the dashboard to provide a seamless digital experience,” said Yasuhide Mizuno, CEO of Sony Honda Mobility, at CES.

The car includes 40 sensors and cameras to enable semi-autonomous driving and features augmented reality elements designed to improve the connected driving experience.

At CES, Mizuno demonstrated a feature by summoning the car on stage using a voice command, saying, “Come on out, Afeela,” into his phone. Although it is uncertain if this feature will be included in the final version, it provides a fascinating look at the potential for voice-command technology in vehicles.

_{CES2025 Sony Honda Mobility Press Conference.}

Afeela 1 Electric Car Debuts with AI, 300-Mile Range, and Tesla Charging Compatibility

The Afeela 1 is available in two trims: the Afeela 1 Origin and the Afeela 1 Signature. Both models come with a three-year complimentary subscription that includes Afeela Intelligent Drive, a personal AI agent, immersive entertainment options, customizable digital themes, and 5G connectivity. Pricing begins at $89,900 for the Afeela 1 Origin and $102,900 for the Afeela 1 Signature.

The Afeela 1 Signature includes 21-inch wheels, a rear-seat entertainment system, and a Center Camera Monitoring System (C-CMS). Exterior colors are offered in Tidal Gray, Calm White, and Core Black, while the Signature trim adds a choice of black or gray interior finishes.

With a targeted range of up to 300 miles, the Afeela 1 is being designed to meet the needs of both daily driving and road trips. It is compatible with Tesla’s Supercharging Network across the United States, ensuring access to a well-established charging infrastructure. Additionally, Afeela provides long-term support and services through authorized repair centers to deliver peace of mind to its owners.

Preorder Now Open for the Sony-Honda Afeela Electric Car, Only in California, available in 3 colors

Why Is the Sony-Honda Afeela Only Available in California?

If you’re living outside California, you might be wondering, “Why aren’t we included?” Sony and Honda haven’t given a clear answer, but it’s possible that they’re testing the waters in one of the most EV-friendly states before expanding nationwide. Will the rest of the country get a chance to order an Afeela? For now, that’s the $90,000 question.

Competing in a Crowded Market

The timing of the Afeela’s debut is intriguing. The EV market in the U.S. has been through some serious ups and downs, with demand first surging, then stabilizing. Meanwhile, China has emerged as a dominant player in the EV race, prompting Honda to explore a merger with Nissan to strengthen its position. Against this backdrop, the Afeela feels like a strategic play to grab attention in the luxury EV segment.

Preorder Now Open for the Sony-Honda Afeela Electric Car, Only in California - interior shot

Should You Reserve the Afeela 1 Now or Wait?

Deciding whether to place the $200 refundable deposit and secure your spot in line for the Afeela 1 involves a few considerations.

First, think about the timeline. Deliveries for the Signature trim are expected to begin in 2026, while the Origin trim will follow in 2027. This means you’ll need to wait several years, and by the time the car arrives, some of the features may already feel outdated compared to newer models.

Next, evaluate the overall value. The three-year complimentary subscription to the tech features is appealing, but once it expires, maintaining access to these features will likely involve additional costs. It is important to weigh whether the initial appeal of the subscription justifies the potential long-term expenses.

Lastly, geography plays a role. Currently, preorders are limited to California residents, and there is no confirmation on when or if availability will expand to other states. If you are not located in California, it may be worth keeping an eye on updates to see if the Afeela 1 eventually becomes available in your area.

If you’re intrigued, maybe it’s time to start saving, or at least bookmark the preorder page. Let us know when you’ve dropped down $200.