Sony Honda Mobility Initiates AFEELA 1 Trial Production in Ohio, Establishes New “Quality Gate” Inspection Facility

Core Insights - Sony Honda Mobility Inc. (SHM) has initiated trial production runs of its first model, AFEELA 1, at Honda's East Liberty Auto Plant as part of preparations for mass production [1] - SHM has established a Quality Gate facility in East Liberty, Ohio, to conduct unique inspections on vehicles to meet SHM's specifications and Honda's quality standards [1][2] Production and Quality Assurance - AFEELA's production integrates strict manufacturing quality with innovative features, including 40 sensors, panoramic screens, and advanced technologies like AI and connectivity [2] - The Quality Gate facility will perform inspections from two main perspectives: function inspection and exterior inspection, ensuring the vehicle's integrated functions operate as designed and verifying the perfection of the exterior design [3][8] Feedback and Continuous Improvement - Quality Gate will serve as a feedback mechanism for production quality stabilization, with data collected being used to enhance vehicle design and manufacturing processes [3] - The commitment to reliability and technology is emphasized by SHM, aiming to deliver the promised experience of the AFEELA brand [4] AFEELA Brand Overview - AFEELA represents a fusion of intelligence and emotion in motion, focusing on a next-generation driving experience through advanced sensing and human-centered design [5] - The AFEELA 1 is set to be the brand's first production model, with deliveries planned in California for 2026 [5] Company Background - Sony Honda Mobility Inc. is a joint venture established in 2022, combining Sony's technological expertise with Honda's automotive knowledge to drive innovation in the mobility sector [6]