Afeela SUV Prototype: Sony-Honda’s Next Big Leap in Electric Mobility

The electric vehicle (EV) revolution is accelerating, and collaborations between tech giants and automakers are reshaping the industry. One of the most exciting partnerships is Sony Honda Mobility (SHM), a joint venture between Sony Group Corporation and Honda Motor Company. At CES 2026 in Las Vegas, SHM unveiled the Afeela SUV prototype, its second model under the Afeela brand, following the Afeela 1 sedan. This SUV represents a bold step toward blending cutting-edge automotive engineering with digital innovation.

🌍 The Vision Behind Afeela

Sony and Honda formed SHM in 2022 with a mission to redefine mobility. Their philosophy is simple yet ambitious: cars should evolve from being driver-centric machines to smart devices on wheels. The Afeela SUV embodies this vision by integrating entertainment, connectivity, and AI-driven features into a sleek, futuristic design.

🚗 Design and Styling

The Afeela SUV prototype carries forward the design language of the Afeela 1 sedan but adapts it into a more upright, muscular stance:

• Front Fascia: Sleek enclosed grille connected to swept-back rectangular LED headlamps.
• Body Lines: Clean, minimalist surfaces with subtle curves for aerodynamic efficiency.
• Rear Profile: Streamlined tail lamps and a coupe-like silhouette.
• Interior (expected): Digital-first cabin with large infotainment displays, immersive entertainment systems, and advanced driver-assist interfaces.

This design reflects Sony’s tech-inspired aesthetics while maintaining Honda’s practical engineering DNA.

⚡ Technology and Innovation

The Afeela SUV is built on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Digital Chassis, which provides:

• Advanced electronic architecture for seamless connectivity.
• AI-centric mobility features such as predictive driving assistance.
• Entertainment integration leveraging Sony’s expertise in gaming, music, and media.
• Over-the-air updates to keep the vehicle future-ready.

This makes the SUV not just a mode of transport but a digital ecosystem on wheels.

🔋 Performance and Range (Expected)

While SHM has not disclosed full specifications yet, the SUV is expected to share its platform with the Afeela 1 sedan, which offers:

• Dual-motor all-wheel drive for strong performance.
• Battery capacity: Estimated around 100 kWh.
• Range: Likely 500–600 km per charge.
• Charging: Compatibility with NACS-style ports for Tesla’s Supercharging network.

These figures would place the Afeela SUV in direct competition with premium EVs like the Tesla Model X, BMW iX, and Mercedes EQE SUV.

📊 Market Position and Launch Timeline

• Production Debut: Expected in 2028.
• Target Markets: Primarily the US, followed by Europe and Asia.
• Pricing: While not confirmed, the Afeela 1 sedan starts at $89,990, suggesting the SUV will be priced in the premium EV bracket.

By entering the SUV segment, SHM aims to capture the fastest-growing category in the EV market.

🌱 Why It Matters

The Afeela SUV prototype is significant for several reasons:

• Tech-Auto Fusion: Demonstrates how consumer electronics companies like Sony can reshape automotive experiences.
• Sustainability: Reinforces Honda’s commitment to carbon neutrality by 2050.
• Competition: Challenges established EV players with a fresh blend of design and digital innovation.
• Consumer Appeal: Offers a unique proposition for tech-savvy buyers who want more than just transportation.

✨ Final Thoughts

The unveiling of the Afeela SUV prototype marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of electric mobility. By combining Honda’s proven automotive engineering with Sony’s digital prowess, SHM is creating vehicles that are not only efficient and sustainable but also immersive and intelligent.

As the SUV heads toward production in 2028, it promises to be a formidable competitor in the premium EV space, offering a glimpse into a future where cars are as much about connectivity and entertainment as they are about driving. For consumers, the Afeela SUV represents the next big leap in how we experience mobility.