CES 2024: Sony and Honda Reveal Updated Afeela Prototype

Production-Ready Electric Sedan Undergoes Major Revisions

At the CES 2024 event, Sony Honda Mobility announced the release of a newly improved Afeela prototype. The elegant electric sedan has undergone numerous changes, and the company states that this latest version closely resembles the final production design.The Afeela prototype was first introduced in 2020 by Sony, in collaboration with Honda, as a concept for their joint venture. Since then, it has gone through several modifications to enhance its features and functionality. Now, with the latest update, the car is one step closer to being available for purchase by consumers.The new Afeela prototype boasts a modern and stylish design, with clean lines and a sleek profile. Its all-electric powertrain provides efficient and eco-friendly performance, making it a desirable option for environmentally-conscious drivers.Underneath its sleek exterior, the Afeela prototype also packs impressive technology. It includes a user-friendly interface that allows drivers to easily control various aspects of the vehicle, such as navigation, entertainment, and climate settings. This cutting-edge technology makes the car not only visually appealing but also practical and convenient for everyday use.While the initial Afeela prototype was purely a concept, the latest version showcases significant progress towards the final production model. Sony Honda Mobility has made key improvements to ensure the car

This provides us with a more clear understanding of what to anticipate when the Afeela is unveiled in 2025. Aesthetically, the four-door model boasts updated front-end design. The front bumper has undergone a revamp, featuring a sleek black strip on the lower fascia for added sportiness. The front end now carries an even bolder appearance, thanks to its illuminated badges, a striking full-width light bar, and wrap-around headlights.

Afeela’s recent transformation has led her to don traditional side mirrors, a stark contrast from the slim cameras she sported just a year ago. The once slender roof pillars have been replaced with sturdier ones, but the glossy black coating and seamless integration still create the illusion of a “full glass” exterior, as initially showcased in the concept design.

The Afeela undergoes noticeable revisions at the back, with a bulkier bumper and a likely functioning rear spoiler. While the trunk lid doesn’t sharply taper like before, it remains visually pleasing. Hints of both Lucid Air and Toyota Crown can be observed in its overall appearance. It’s possible that the upcoming Honda Accord will take inspiration from this electric vehicle’s design cues.

Enter the Afeela and you will immediately notice numerous modifications to its cabin. While certain elements have been retained from its predecessor, such as the yoke-shaped steering wheel and expansive dashboard screen, many changes have also been made. These enhancements include a more sizable central console equipped with two wireless charging docks and various other upgrades.

During the official presentation, Izumi Kawanishi, President and COO of the company, addressed the audience and spoke about the latest technological progress. This includes the utilization of artificial intelligence in driver assistance systems.

Artificial intelligence (AI) will collaborate with multiple undisclosed sensing devices to facilitate the advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) features. Sony Honda Mobility has announced its intention to incorporate Vision Transformer, a sophisticated deep learning algorithm designed for image identification, into their path planning technology. Furthermore, a backup system will be implemented to ensure safety. The car manufacturer will depend on Qualcomm’s powerful system-on-chip processors to support these operations.

In the world of entertainment, Sony Honda Mobility has joined forces with Epic Games to develop truly captivating and immersive displays. These displays have the ability to replicate real-life external conditions such as pedestrian traffic, various weather patterns, and other types of vehicles. The technology utilizes the Unreal Engine 5.3 gaming engine, adding even more depth and realism to the experience. It remains to be seen if Sony Honda Mobility will utilize this partnership to offer in-car gaming, following in the footsteps of other popular brands.

When it comes to the world of gaming, Sony Honda Mobility has recently revealed a collaboration with Polyphony Digital. This partnership will result in the introduction of the electric Afeela in the highly anticipated Gran Turismo 7, expected to be released later this year.

One of the partnerships involves working together with Microsoft, as the two companies team up to create a “conversational personal agent” using the latter’s Azure OpenAI software. While details are scarce at the moment, it appears that Sony Honda Mobility aims to be at the forefront of advanced digital assistants in the industry. In addition, Volkswagen has also announced at CES 2024 that it will be incorporating ChatGPT into its vehicles this year.

Just a friendly reminder, the Afeela features Interior Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors located on both the front and rear axles. Each motor generates 241 horsepower, totaling to an output of 482 hp. The vehicle is equipped with a 91 kWh lithium-ion battery pack that has the capability of being charged at a maximum speed of 150 kW, specifically on a DC charger. However, Sony Honda Mobility has yet to reveal the estimated range for this model.

Surprisingly, the car has expanded marginally since its initial appearance and now has a length of 193.5 inches. However, all other measurements remain unchanged. Anticipate a few additional alterations prior to its official unveiling next year.

Polyphony Digital and Sony Honda Mobility Announce Partnership in Vehicle Development