Sony Honda Mobility (SHM) has officially cancelled the development and launch of its Afeela electric vehicle programme, including the Afeela 1 that was scheduled to enter production. The decision follows discussions between parent companies Sony Group Corporation and Honda Motor Co., after Honda’s recent reassessment of its electrification strategy. According to SHM, the change in
Sony Honda Mobility (SHM) has officially cancelled the development and launch of its Afeela electric vehicle programme, including the Afeela 1 that was scheduled to enter production.
The decision follows discussions between parent companies Sony Group Corporation and Honda Motor Co., after Honda’s recent reassessment of its electrification strategy.
According to SHM, the change in direction means certain technologies and assets that were originally planned to be supplied by Honda will no longer be available. As a result, the joint venture said it no longer has a viable path to bring the Afeela models to market as initially planned.
The Afeela 1 was previously unveiled as the first production model under the Sony-Honda joint venture, with plans to launch in the United States (starting with California) in 2025 and begin deliveries by mid-2026.
Reservations had already been opened, with customers placing deposits for two variants which are the Origin and the higher-spec Signature. SHM confirmed that all reservation fees will be fully refunded.
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For context, the Afeela 1 was positioned as a premium, software-defined EV, combining Honda’s automotive engineering with Sony’s expertise in entertainment, connectivity and AI. It featured a dual-motor all-wheel drive setup producing 489 PS and a 91 kWh battery offering up to 483 km of range (EPA).
The Afeela 1 also had a heavy focus on in-car tech, including a full-width panoramic display, AI-powered digital assistant, 5G connectivity, and integration with Sony’s entertainment ecosystem, including remote PlayStation gaming.
An advanced driver assistance system using up to 40 sensors and high computing power was also part of the package.
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The cancellation comes shortly after Honda announced it would halt several EV projects, including the 0 Saloon, 0 SUV and Acura RSX BEV, as it reassesses its electrification strategy amid changing market conditions.
The company cited slowing EV demand in certain markets, shifting regulatory environments, and increased competition from newer EV players as key factors behind the decision.
Honda is expected to shift more focus towards hybrid models and a more balanced electrification approach moving forward. Despite the cancellation, SHM said it will continue discussions with both Sony and Honda regarding its future business direction.
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