Honda
Sony Honda Mobility cancels Afeela 1 sedan and Afeela 2 SUV amid Honda's EV strategy shift
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Sony Honda Mobility, the joint venture between Sony and Honda, has discontinued its two electric vehicle models: the Afeela 1 sedan and Afeela 2 SUV. The decision follows Honda's reassessment of its electrification strategy on March 12, 2026, and comes amid slowing U.S. EV demand. The company will issue full refunds to U.S. customers who placed reservations.
Honda Racing Corporation president Koji Watanabe described concerns over the company's Formula 1 power unit project with Aston Martin as a misunderstanding stemming from staff rotations and a delayed rebuild. Adrian Newey revealed that Aston Martin only learned in November 2025 about significant changes in Honda's team since its Red Bull success. Watanabe emphasized that the partnership is now strong despite challenges like vibration issues.
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Honda has launched its 2026 Ride Red Demo Days, a nationwide program offering test rides on various motorcycle models at 50 powersports dealerships. Two tractor-trailer trucks will transport the bikes across eastern and western U.S. regions. The first event kicks off April 3 and 4 at RideNow in Peoria, Arizona.
Aston Martin concluded its Formula 1 pre-season testing in Bahrain prematurely on Friday, completing just six laps on the final day due to ongoing Honda power unit issues. The team struggled with reliability problems throughout the week, including a battery-related fault that halted Fernando Alonso's running on Thursday. Despite the setbacks, team members expressed determination to address the challenges ahead of the 2026 season opener in Australia.
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Aston Martin is still working to fully align with its new engine supplier Honda ahead of the 2026 Formula 1 season. Team principal Mike Krack remains optimistic about the collaboration. The situation draws comparisons to past Honda partnerships with Red Bull and McLaren.