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Sony Honda Mobility Unveils AFEELA Prototype 2026 at CES® 2026

As the excitement builds for CES® 2026 in Las Vegas, Sony Honda Mobility (SHM) kicked off the event with a press conference that captured the future of mobility. On January 5, 2026, the company unveiled the AFEELA Prototype 2026, a significant leap towards realizing their vision of 'Mobility as a Creative Entertainment Space'. This prototype hints at an innovative transportation future where vehicles serve as more than mere machines—they become intuitive partners that elevate the travel experience.

AFEELA 1 and Future Mobility Objectives

During the conference, SHM introduced AFEELA 1, the first production model set to begin deliveries in the U.S. later this year. This vehicle embodies SHM's philosophy that aims to enhance how users perceive mobility. With AFEELA, the goal is to transform the vehicle environment into a vibrant space where comfort and entertainment merge, driven by advanced artificial intelligence. By leveraging cutting-edge technology developed in partnership with Qualcomm, SHM is set to redefine traditional mobility paradigms.

Key Features of AFEELA Prototype 2026

The world debut of AFEELA Prototype 2026 also functioned as an important marker for SHM's future production plans. This model is expected to launch in the U.S. as early as 2028. Key highlights include:

• - Improved Driver Assistance: SHM has made great strides in enhancing their AFEELA Intelligent Drive system, aiming for higher autonomy that could eventually evolve into a 'drive-less' environment where occupants fully enjoy in-car entertainment options.
• - Personalized Experience: The introduction of AFEELA Personal Agent utilizes advanced AI to deliver customized dialogue and services, fostering a deeper connection between passengers and their vehicle.

Collaborative Approaches and Innovative Strategies

SHM remains committed to co-creating experiences in the mobility space. The newly launched AFEELA Co-Creation Program provides developers and creators access to tools necessary for building unique in-vehicle entertainment applications. This initiative is poised to revolutionize how users interact with their vehicles, creating a rich ecosystem of apps that can transform the car into a mobile entertainment hub.

Moreover, SHM aims to utilize a token-based incentive model for their new open, on-chain mobility service platform. This initiative encourages participation across the mobility spectrum, facilitating a collaborative environment for developers, other automakers, and consumers alike to engage in mobility service innovations.

AFEELA Launch Timeline and Future Goals

Reservations for the AFEELA 1 began in January 2025, with the company reporting over 24,000 in-vehicle demonstrations and welcoming over 100,000 visitors at AFEELA Studios in California in the first year alone. With production preparations underway at Honda’s manufacturing plant, SHM is on track to roll out AFEELA 1 deliveries in California within 2026, followed by an expansion into Arizona in 2027 and Japan in early 2027.

The introduction of the AFEELA Prototype 2026 is not merely an unveiling; it serves as a beacon of SHM’s ambitions. This prototype, focused on enhancing spatial flexibility and accessibility, aims to cater to a broader audience, affirming SHM’s commitment to inclusivity in mobility.

Conclusion

As SHM sets the stage for the next chapter of mobility, the combination of advanced AI technologies, collaborative ecosystems, and a visionary approach heralds a new dawn. Through the AFEELA initiative, Sony Honda Mobility is not just about creating vehicles; it’s about crafting meaningful experiences that revolutionize everyday travel.