Afeela Reveals Artistic Prototypes Amid Honda EV Strategy Shift

Daily Car

18/03/2026

Sony Honda Mobility (SHM) has presented two distinct art car versions of its upcoming Afeela electric vehicle. The unveilings are part of a promotional effort to generate interest ahead of the model's official market launch scheduled for later this year.

The Sorayama Prototype

One version, titled “Afeela prototype tuned up by Hajime Sorayama,” was revealed in Tokyo. Created with the Japanese illustrator known for his depictions of robotic figures, the vehicle features a full chrome body wrap intended to embody concepts of light and reflection. The car is also fitted with deeply tinted windows, gray tires, and custom Sorayama badging. A notable detail is the “moiré effect” on the wheels. This is an optical illusion that creates a shimmering, wavy pattern when two similar patterns are overlaid, giving the wheels a dynamic appearance.

The Copson Prototype

In a separate debut at Frieze Los Angeles, SHM showcased a collaboration with artist and director Matt Copson. This second art car is covered in a reflective material commonly used on emergency vehicles and road signs. The application of the material gives the vehicle’s surface a complex, glowing pattern that reacts to light, creating a highly unconventional look.

Core Vehicle and Market Position

These artistic prototypes are based on the production-intent Afeela 1, an all-electric sedan. The vehicle is positioned as a premium offering, with an expected starting price of approximately $89,900. The Afeela 1 integrates technology from Sony with automotive engineering from Honda, aiming to deliver a unique user experience focused on entertainment and software integration.

Industry Context

The promotional push for Afeela comes at a notable time for the joint venture. The activity follows a recent announcement from Honda that it was canceling three of its other planned electric vehicles, including the 0 Sedan and 0 SUV. This strategic pivot places greater emphasis on the Afeela project as a key component of the companies' combined electrification efforts. By using artistic collaborations, SHM is working to maintain public momentum and highlight the design-forward nature of its debut vehicle as it prepares to enter a competitive EV market.

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