Afeela, a novelty carmaker born out of an alliance between Honda and Sony, has unveiled its second production vehicle. Shaped like a crossover SUV, it still has no name other than “Prototype 2026” and is slated to reach the market in 2028. In the meantime, the company’s model number one is scheduled for launch later this year.
In a way familiar to those who have seen the Afeela 1, the model number two features a very clean and laconic body design only slightly disrupted by a trio of self-driving sensor humps above the windshield. With a LiDAR and a suite of cameras, the SUV is supposed to offer SAE Level 4 self-driving capabilities when it ships two years from now. In theory, this means drivers will be able to take their hands off the steering wheel for longer periods while the car is driving itself.
A curved display between the headlights can be used to output custom text and graphics. The interior remains a mystery, but we already know that the Afeela 1 is coming to the market loaded with displays and packing a Sony PlayStation console on board. Sony promises full PS4 and PS5 compatibility along with numerous digital features – watch the video above for some premiere excerpts courtesy of CNET.
The e-motor count and parameters are likewise TBA. The Afeela 1 has two motors and 490 PS (483 hp / 360 kW) total. Honda estimates its EPA range at 483 km (300 miles). Considering these relatively modest characteristics, it might end up a tough sell in the United States at its MSRP of $89,900. One has to wonder how well the SUV may fare when it comes out, considering that it’s liable to be even pricier.
