Innovative EV Car – ” Afeela “:
Sony Honda Mobility (SHM), a joint venture between tech giant Sony and renowned automaker Honda, made waves at CES 2023 with the unveiling of their latest creation, the Afeela electric vehicle (EV). This exciting partnership has resulted in a concept vehicle that pushes the boundaries of automotive technology and entertainment. Let’s delve into the remarkable features and innovations showcased by Afeela.
A Futuristic Approach to Entry
One of the most striking features of the Afeela is the absence of traditional door handles. The sleek, smooth exterior presents a challenge for entry, but the production version is expected to incorporate door handles for practicality. The Afeela employs a network of 45 sensor arrays and cameras both inside and outside the vehicle. These advanced sensors detect the approach of the driver or passengers, allowing for a futuristic touchless entry experience. During a demonstration, a Honda representative effortlessly opened the driver’s side door using a smartphone app, showcasing the seamless integration of technology.
Cutting-Edge Interior
Inside the Afeela, passengers are greeted with plush Alcantara-like seats that adjust to provide a welcoming seating arrangement. The focal point of the cabin is the expansive array of screens that stretch seamlessly from one pillar to the other beneath the windshield. Notably, the screens on the car’s front and rear bumpers continuously cycle through various content, transforming the Afeela into a mobile billboard.
Additional screens are strategically positioned to enhance the driving experience, with two smaller screens serving as exterior side camera mirrors, offering a wrap-around view. Meanwhile, the panoramic interior screens seamlessly blend together, allowing for smooth navigation and interaction, free from any interruptions or lag.
Entertainment Redefined
The Afeela sets a new standard for in-car entertainment with Sony’s 360 Reality Audio system. This groundbreaking technology creates a 360-degree spherical sound field, providing an immersive audio experience. Individual speakers in each headrest and beneath the seats deliver rich, dynamic sound quality. Whether it’s music or movies, the Afeela’s entertainment system guarantees an unparalleled audiovisual experience. Notably, Sony plans to make the speaker system adjustable in future models to cater to passengers of varying heights.
Advanced Autonomy and Safety
Safety is a top priority for SHM, and the Afeela is no exception. The vehicle is equipped with a Level 3 automated drive under limited conditions and Level 2+ driver assistance features for urban driving. The entertainment features are intelligently blocked from the driver’s view while driving, ensuring safety on the road.
Afeela: The Future of Mobility and Entertainment
Sony Honda Mobility envisions Afeela as an entertainment platform on wheels. As technology continues to reshape our lives, the Afeela aims to revolutionize in-car media consumption. While access to games, apps, and movies will require a subscription, the Afeela promises a seamless experience with top-notch connectivity and processing power. The vehicle’s digital sales approach and planned availability in 2026, starting with North America, signal a commitment to embracing the future of automotive retail.
Gesture Control and Beyond
In the near future, Afeela will introduce gesture control features, allowing drivers to interact with the vehicle’s functions with intuitive movements. Moreover, Afeela offers PlayStation integration, enabling passengers to enjoy gaming seamlessly. With a range of entertainment options and cutting-edge technology, Afeela sets a new standard for automotive innovation.
Looking Ahead to 2026
The Afeela EV sedan marks the debut of an entirely new automotive brand. Orders are set to open in 2025, with deliveries slated for 2026 in North America. While pricing and deposit details are yet to be revealed, the Afeela promises to be a game-changer in the world of electric vehicles.
The Afeela EV sedan represents a bold step into the future of mobility, combining innovation, entertainment, and safety in a sleek package. As more information becomes available, we anticipate further insights into its EV motor, range, and performance, as well as fuel economy, warranty, and maintenance coverage. With an estimated base price of approximately $47,000, Afeela is poised to make a significant impact on the automotive landscape. Stay tuned for updates as we continue to follow the journey of this groundbreaking vehicle.