Sony Honda Mobility Cancels Afeela EV Plans
Sony Honda Mobility (SHM) has announced the cancellation of its planned Afeela electric vehicle (EV) lineup, including the Afeela 1 sedan and a future SUV. The decision follows a strategic shift by Honda, impacting the joint venture’s viability.
Honda’s Strategy Change
The cancellation stems from a re-evaluation of Honda’s electrification strategy, announced earlier in March 2026. Honda determined it could not deliver EVs with a competitive quality-price ratio [Carscoops]. SHM will no longer have access to the technologies and resources originally expected from Honda.
Afeela 1 and Planned SUV
The Afeela 1 sedan was slated to begin deliveries to customers in California in the second half of 2026, with right-hand drive versions planned for Japan by the end of the year [Sony Honda Mobility]. A concept for a related SUV was unveiled at CES in Las Vegas, with production targeted for 2028. Both models have now had their development and launch interrupted [GMA Authority].
Refunds for Reservations
Customers who had reserved the Afeela 1 with a $200 deposit will receive full refunds [Carscoops].
Recent Developments
Just weeks before the announcement, Sony Honda Mobility of America opened the Afeela Studio & Delivery Hub in Torrance, California, on March 16, 2026 [Sony Honda Mobility]. The company had too recently collaborated with artist Hajime Sorayama [Sony Honda Mobility] and highlighted AI-based trajectory inference powering Afeela’s autonomous driving capabilities [Sony Honda Mobility].
Afeela 1 Specifications (as previously planned)
- Autonomous Features: Designed with 40 sensors for autonomous driving.
- Range: EPA estimated range up to 300 miles.
- Power: Configuration with two electric motors producing 490 hp.
Key Takeaways
- Sony Honda Mobility is ceasing development of the Afeela 1 sedan and a planned SUV.
- The decision is a direct result of Honda’s revised EV strategy.
- Customers with reservations will receive full refunds.
- The joint venture’s future is now uncertain.
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