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Sony Honda Mobility displayed a mass production prototype of the Afeela 1 during CES 2026, at Las Vegas, at Estados Unidos. Deliveries of the electric vehicle are confirmed for the second half of 2026 at Califórnia, with a starting price of US$89,900. The company also revealed details about a blockchain-based mobility services platform.

The sedan model prioritizes entertainment and connectivity, integrating technologies from Sony and automotive expertise from Honda. A new crossover prototype, called Afeela Prototype 2026, was presented with launch scheduled for 2028. The joint venture reinforces the focus on software-defined vehicles.

CES 2026 marked the exhibition of a model assembled on a real production line in Ohio, in the Estados Unidos. Izumi Kawanishi, president and COO of Sony Honda Mobility, highlighted in an interview the evolution of software and the vision of mobility as a space for creative entertainment.

Technical characteristics of the Afeela 1

The Afeela 1 has an operating system based on Android Automotive OS, allowing applications to be run directly on the central screen. Users access services such as Zoom for meetings and remote playback of PlayStation 4 and 5 games. Connectivity occurs via an integrated cellular network, without the need for a smartphone hotspot.

The vehicle has a premium finish and steering wheel with navigation display. The trunk is at the rear, unlike some competitors. The external design maintains minimalist lines, with a front LED bar for visual communication.

• Immersive audio with 20 speakers in the cabin and 8 in the seats;
• Noise cancellation technology adapted to the vehicle’s movement;
• Surround sound compatible with Dolby Atmos;
• Independent audio control per seat.

Immersive audio system

Sony developed the Afeela Immersive Audio exclusively for the model. The system uses three-axis sensors and data from the CAN network to reduce road noise and vibrations. Cada seat creates independent acoustic spaces.

Occupants select playback modes, spreading the sound throughout the interior or concentrating it on the individual seat. Personalizações include simulated engine sounds, like that of the 1965 Honda RA272 from Fórmula 1. Essas options change the driving experience thematically.

On-chain mobility platform

Izumi Kawanishi explained the adoption of blockchain to avoid excessive centralization. The platform allows tokenized rewards for using applications and services. Desenvolvedores receive incentives based on reviews and usage volume.

Unlike traditional app stores, the model distributes value in a decentralized way. Usuários manage driving data, which generates value in software-defined vehicles. The “Drive-to-Earn” concept transforms mileage into transferable digital assets.

Launch and expansion details

Deliveries begin on the Califórnia in the second half of 2026, followed by the Arizona in 2027. The Japão takes delivery in the first half of 2027. The Versões and Signature start at $102,900.

The Afeela 1 equips around 40 sensors, including LiDAR, cameras and ultrasonic radars. The estimated autonomy is around 480 kilometers. Production takes place in a dedicated factory in Ohio.

New crossover prototype

The Afeela Prototype 2026 offers a larger and more accessible interior. The design shares components with the sedan, but adapts to the SUV format. Commercial launch is scheduled for 2028.

The model responds to the preference for tall vehicles in the Estados Unidos. Detalhes technicians remain limited at this conceptual stage. The electric platform will be shared with the Afeela 1.

Vision of the future of mobility

Sony Honda Mobility positions Afeela as a creative entertainment space. Funções AI systems operate primarily in the cloud, allowing for continuous updates. The software evolves both in the vehicle and remotely.

Kawanishi emphasized combining mobility with external information for new services. Aplicativos exploit motion data for innovative experiences. The open approach encourages co-creation with third parties.

Driving experience

Public driving tests have not yet taken place due to approval processes. The company prioritizes full approvals before open road demonstrations. Experiências for pre-orders happen closer to launch.

The initial focus remains on in-flight entertainment and connectivity. Dynamic Desempenho will be revealed gradually. The strategy avoids premature comparisons with established competitors.

Context of the joint venture

The partnership between Sony and Honda combines expertise in electronics and automotive manufacturing. The Afeela 1 represents the first commercial product from the collaboration. Investimentos focus on advanced software and sensors.

The brand seeks to differentiate itself by integrating high-quality entertainment. Atualizações over-the-air keeps the vehicle evolving over time. The model competes in the premium electric segment.

The Afeela 1 incorporates visual and sound customizations developed by Honda Racing Development. Opções include unique paintings and historical sound themes. Essas features reinforce a unique identity in the market.

The blockchain platform opens up possibilities for an open ecosystem. Tokens encourage the development of specific content for mobility. Usuários accumulate value through interaction with the vehicle.

CES 2026 consolidated the progress of the project started years ago. Protótipos have evolved into real production versions. Sony Honda Mobility maintains its schedule despite challenges in the electricity sector.