Honda’s unexpected decision to halt its planned North American electric vehicle (EV) lineup has sent ripples through the automotive industry, with significant implications for the Afeela 1, a vehicle that holds a special place for Gran Turismo fans. The Afeela, an electric sedan from the Sony Honda Mobility (SHM) joint venture, represents more than just another EV announcement due to its deep ties to the Gran Turismo series.
The announcement comes as SHM and Polyphony Digital had embarked on a unique collaboration, announced at CES 2024, to integrate simulation technology with real-world vehicle development. This partnership led to the creation of the Afeela’s e-Motor Sound, a synthesized audio system crafted to enhance the driving experience of an otherwise silent electric car. The significance of this collaboration was highlighted when SHM’s COO, Izumi Kawanishi, drove the prototype onto the CES stage using a DualSense controller.
The Impact of Honda’s Decision
Honda’s announcement on Wednesday to cancel the 0 Series Sedan, 0 Series SUV, and Acura RSX was attributed to tariff concerns and a shifting regulatory landscape for electric vehicles. Although the Afeela 1 was not directly mentioned, its future is uncertain as it shares its platform with the now-canceled 0 Series and was intended for production at Honda’s East Liberty Auto Plant.
In a statement obtained by The Drive, SHM’s PR director Akiko Itoga acknowledged Honda’s decision and stated that Sony and Honda will discuss its implications for SHM. However, no further information is available at this time. Despite being a separate entity from Honda, SHM’s plans for the Afeela 1, priced from $89,900 and already accepting reservations, could be jeopardized by Honda’s withdrawal from EV manufacturing in North America.
Gran Turismo’s Role in Afeela’s Journey
The timing of this development is particularly unfortunate for Gran Turismo players. The “AFEELA Cup 2026 presented by Sony Honda Mobility” is currently underway in Gran Turismo 7, with players racing the Afeela 1 in a time trial event. This promotional activity underscores the car’s significance within the gaming community, yet its real-world production is now in question.
Last year, SHM held a livery design competition in Gran Turismo 7, with the winning design intended for use in Afeela promotional materials and possibly on the actual car. Whether this car will ever see the light of day remains uncertain.
Challenges and Future Prospects
Sony’s journey into automotive manufacturing began with the Vision-S concept unveiled in 2020, marking a six-year endeavor to create a real car. Polyphony Digital’s expertise in sound engineering and simulation played a crucial role in developing the Afeela. Despite trial production runs and the opening of retail locations in California, the car’s future is now in jeopardy.
The potential disruption of factory infrastructure and supply chains, which SHM relied on, poses a significant threat to the Afeela’s production. While the Afeela 1 is further along in development than the canceled Honda and Acura models, it is not immune to the challenges that led to their demise.
For now, the only place you can be sure to drive one is in Gran Turismo 7.
As the automotive industry grapples with this unexpected development, the future of the Afeela 1 remains uncertain. Enthusiasts and industry watchers alike will be keenly observing how SHM navigates this challenging landscape and whether the Afeela will ever make it to consumers’ driveways.
