Three models to rival Tesla
Sony and Honda’s joint venture Afeela could introduce an SUV and “compact” car by 2030.
According to Nikkei Asia, Afeela will launch three electric models by the end of this decade.
The news outlet reports the collaboration will produce a sedan in 2025, an SUV in 2027 and an “affordable” compact in 2028 or later. The aim is for them to rival Tesla in the US.
Afeela has reportedly begun hiring mid-career engineers and intends to double its workforce to around 500 staff, while the three EVs will be built on the same platform.
Nikkei Asia reports the brand’s compact segment model could be comparable in size to a Toyota Corolla or Volkswagen Golf. It’s reportedly expected to share parts with Honda’s own electric cars to lower production and development costs.
Sony Honda Mobility says its 2024 sedan will come in at some 4,895mm long, around the same size as the Hyundai Ioniq 6. It will seat five people and have a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system.
The companies have yet to confirm battery or motor figures. According to Nikkei Asia, the Afeela sedan will cost the equivalent of about NZ$108,000 and be known as a “high-value-added EV”.
