Sony sets up first store for its Afeela EV

25 February 2025

Sony Honda Mobility has opened its first public studio in Los Angeles, dedicated to its first EV - the Afeela. Located in the Westfield Century City mall, the studio offers a chance for potential customers and EV enthusiasts to get up close and personal with the Afeela before its California launch in 2026.

The Century City location, in the heart of a neighborhood closely tied to the entertainment industry, seems like a strategic choice for Sony. The six-month residency will last until August 1st, and will allow the public to explore the Afeela and learn more about its features. Visitors can drop by anytime to view the vehicle and ask questions. For a more immersive experience, they can also book in-car demonstrations to explore the interior and technology, though test drives are not yet available. This isn't the first time the Afeela has been showcased at this mall; a prototype was previously displayed at a temporary booth.

The Afeela is a result of a joint venture between Sony and Honda. The collaboration aims to create a unique EV experience, blending entertainment and mobility. The studio gives Sony the platform it needs to highlight these innovations and drum up some excitement for the upcoming release.

SHM recently announced pricing for the Afeela, with a base model starting at $89,900. The initial launch edition, the Afeela 1 Signature, will be priced at $102,900. These prices place Afeela firmly in the premium EV market. SHM has already suggested that some of Afeela's features will need a subscription after the initial three-year ownership period ends. Unfortunately for customers, this subscription model is becoming increasingly common in the automotive industry.

Sony's venture into the EV space with Afeela is a bold move, and the company's success will depend on its ability to deliver a product that consumers will actually want. The Los Angeles studio is a great opportunity to gauge public interest and get some valuable feedback before the official launch.

If you are in Southern California and want to experience the Afeela up close and personal, a visit to the Century City Mall studio sounds like a good idea. Whether you're serious about buying it or simply curious about the future of electric cars, the Afeela studio is a unique opportunity to explore this clever EV. Booking an in-car demonstration in advance is advised for a more personalized experience.

Source