Sony Honda Mobility Unveils Apila prototype, Eyes 2028 Release
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Sony Honda Mobility is accelerating its push into the electric vehicle market, showcasing the Apila Prototype at CES 2026 in Las Vegas on Thursday. The new model builds upon the foundation of the Apila 1 sedan, slated for release later this year, and signals the joint venture’s ambition to deliver a compelling and technologically advanced driving experience.
Apila Prototype: Expanding the Vision
The Apila Prototype is an SUV concept, offering a larger profile than the previously revealed Apila 1. According to a company release, the exterior design maintains a similar aesthetic to the Apila 1, featuring a minimalist approach and an integrated LCD display on the front. Sony Honda Mobility anticipates the prototype will be available for purchase as early as 2028.
The Apila 1, the precursor to the prototype, is scheduled to hit the roads in California in the first half of the year. Shugo Yamaguchi, CEO of Sony Honda Mobility america, confirmed the company remains on track for a 2024 launch, stating, “Apila 1 is still aiming to be released within the year.” The vehicle will carry a starting price of $89,900, positioning it competitively alongside the Porsche Taycan in the premium EV segment.
Performance and Technology
The Apila 1 boasts an estimated range of approximately 300 miles on a single charge. At launch, the vehicle will be equipped with an advanced driver-assistance system offering “hands-off/eyes-on” functionality. Sony Honda Mobility plans to enhance the vehicle’s capabilities through over-the-air (OTA) updates, eventually incorporating Level 4 autonomous driving features. The system will rely on a suite of sensors, including a roof-mounted LiDAR unit, to navigate and perceive its surroundings.
A New Era of In-vehicle Entertainment
Beyond driving dynamics, Sony Honda Mobility is prioritizing the in-vehicle experience. Drivers and passengers will have access to entertainment options, including the ability to play ‘Gran Turismo 7’ via PlayStation Remote Play while the vehicle is stationary. Moreover, Sony intends to foster innovation by opening its submission programming interfaces (APIs) to external developers, allowing for the creation of customized digital experiences for instrument clusters and infotainment systems. These features are powered by Qualcomm’s ‘Snapdragon Digital Chassis’ platform.
The Apila Prototype and the forthcoming Apila 1 represent a significant step forward in Sony Honda Mobility’s vision for the future of transportation, blending automotive engineering with Sony’s expertise in entertainment and technology.
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Sony Honda Mobility Unveils Apila Prototype, Eyes 2028 Release
Sony Honda Mobility is accelerating its push into the electric vehicle market, showcasing the Apila Prototype at CES 2026 in Las Vegas on Thursday. The new model builds upon the foundation of the Apila 1 sedan, slated for release later this year, and signals the joint venture’s ambition to deliver a compelling and technologically advanced driving experience.
Apila Prototype: Expanding the Vision
The Apila Prototype is an SUV concept, offering a larger profile than the previously revealed Apila 1. According to a company release, the exterior design maintains a similar aesthetic to the Apila 1, featuring a minimalist approach and an integrated LCD display on the front. Sony Honda mobility anticipates the prototype will be available for purchase as early as 2028.
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