Sony’s Afeela 1: A Daring Ambition or a Misguided Journey?
Sony’s entry into the automotive sector has been a lengthy and complex saga, characterized by high aspirations and grand promises. At CES 2025, the technology titan revealed the newest version of its electric vehicle (EV), the Afeela 1. Nonetheless, after extensive development and rebranding efforts, the Afeela 1 has prompted many to question whether Sony’s automotive ambitions are dimming. Let’s explore the specifics of this EV, its attributes, and how it measures up in a fiercely competitive landscape.
The Progression of Afeela: From Vision-S to Afeela 1
Sony initially hinted at its automotive goals in 2020 with the Vision-S concept car, a sleek and avant-garde EV that captivated tech aficionados. Over time, the Vision-S transformed into the Vision-S 02 before being renamed Afeela in 2023. Now, in 2025, we are presented with the Afeela 1—a vehicle that appears to have lost much of its early charm.
The term “Afeela” combines autonomy, augmentation, and affinity, embodying Sony’s foresight for the future of transportation. While the branding seeks to signify innovation and connectivity, the vehicle itself struggles to live up to these expectations.
An Unexciting Exterior with Few Modifications
The Afeela 1’s design is quite plain, to put it mildly. The most apparent update this year is the addition of a sensor pod on top, which houses a LiDAR system and cameras. Although these elements are critical for self-driving capabilities, their design detracts from the vehicle’s overall appeal.
Another external aspect is the “media bar” built into the front hood. This display is intended to convey messages to pedestrians and other motorists, although its practicality is debatable. The junction where the two display panels connect is visible, giving this feature a rough and unfinished appearance.
A Technologically Advanced Interior with Opportunities for Enhancement
Upon entering the Afeela 1, you are welcomed with a dashboard-wide display—a testament to Sony’s prowess in consumer electronics. The display is dynamic and customizable, offering themes influenced by popular games such as Ghost of Tsushima and Fortnite. Ambient lighting adds to the character of the interior, but the overall design remains spare and unremarkable.
A notable feature is the large volume knob placed between the seats, which regulates the 28-speaker Dolby Atmos-enabled sound system. While impressive, this element feels like an unusual focus in a vehicle that has more fundamental issues concerning range and charging speed.
The software interface also could use refinement. The grid-based layout of apps and controls seems unfinished, and the expansive display can complicate access to essential functions without pulling the interface back into view.
Performance and Range: Lagging Behind Rivals
The Afeela 1 is equipped with a 91 kWh battery, providing an estimated range of 300 miles. While this may have been noteworthy in the past, it lags considerably behind competitors like the Lucid Air, which boasts over 400 miles of range and quicker charging options. The maximum charging rate of 150 kW for the Afeela 1 further underscores its deficiencies, especially when other EVs in its class deliver considerably better performance.
Pricing and Trim Choices: A Challenging Proposition
The Afeela 1 comes in two trims: the $89,900 Afeela 1 Origin and the $102,900 Afeela 1 Signature. The Origin trim is only available in black, whereas the Signature provides three color choices: white, gray, and black. For a vehicle in this price bracket, the limited variety in color and customization is disappointing.
When compared to rivals such as the Lucid Air Pure or the Porsche Taycan, the Afeela 1 struggles to validate its price point. Both alternatives provide superior performance, more engaging aesthetics, and well-established reputations in the EV arena.
On-the-Go Entertainment: A Tribute to Sony’s Gaming Heritage
One distinctive aspect of the Afeela 1 is its synergy with Sony’s gaming ecosystem. Drivers have the option to pair a DualSense controller with the vehicle and utilize PS Remote Play while recharging. This feature adds an enjoyable and interactive dimension to the EV, though it is unlikely to be a decisive factor for the majority of buyers.
The Future of Sony’s Automotive Dreams
Sony’s collaboration with Honda to produce the Afeela 1 in Ohio signifies a crucial advancement toward launching this EV. Nevertheless, with deliveries anticipated to kick off in 2026, the Afeela 1 confronts significant challenges in a rapidly developing industry. By the time it becomes available, newer and more sophisticated EVs may eclipse Sony’s offering.
Conclusion
The Afeela 1 exemplifies Sony’s ambitious approach to breaking into the automotive market, yet it falls short in crucial areas such as design, performance, and overall value. While the vehicle’s technologically advanced features and gaming integration are captivating, they do not sufficiently offset its mediocre range, sluggish charging speed, and steep price. As the EV marketplace grows increasingly competitive, Sony must address these deficiencies if it seeks to create a meaningful presence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the starting price of the Afeela 1?
The Afeela 1 starts at $89,900 for the Origin trim and ascends to $102,900 for the Signature trim.
How does the Afeela 1 stack up against competitors like the Lucid Air?
The Lucid Air offers over 400 miles of range and rapid charging capabilities, making it a more appealing choice compared to the Afeela 1, which has a range of 300 miles and slower charging speeds.
What are the standout features of the Afeela 1?
The Afeela 1 includes a dashboard-spanning display, customizable ambient lighting, and integration with Sony’s gaming ecosystem, enabling drivers to utilize PS Remote Play with a DualSense controller.
What is the charging speed of the Afeela 1?
The Afeela 1 has a maximum charging capacity of 150 kW, which is slower compared to many of its rivals in the EV market.
When will the Afeela 1 be available for purchase?
The Afeela 1 is projected to start deliveries in 2026, with production held at Honda’s Ohio facility.
What color options are available for the Afeela 1?
The Origin trim is solely available in black, while the Signature trim presents three color choices: black, white, and gray.
Is the Afeela 1 worth its price?
Given its premium price and the absence of distinct features compared to competitors, the Afeela 1 may struggle to justify its cost for many prospective customers.
