Sony AFEELA 1 EV: A look at its cutting edge LTPS TFT LCD and Micro LED displays

Omdia’s David Hsieh explores Sony Honda Mobility’s unveiling of the AFEELA 1 at CES 2025, highlighting its cutting-edge automotive displays and sensor technology. From an innovative 31.5-inch Micro LED media bar to a high-tech digital cockpit, the AFEELA 1 is designed to redefine the driving experience. Read the full blog for insights into its advanced features.

Sony Honda Mobility showcased the first model to be sold under the AFEELA brand, the AFEELA 1, at CES 2025. The cutting-edge electric vehicle (EV) is equipped with a range of advanced displays, designed to enhance the driving experience. These include a head-up display (HUD), P2P central stack display (CSD), a rearview mirror display, a rear seat entertainment (RSE) display, and an external display.

The AFEELA 1 also boasts a suite of 40 sensors, including 18 cameras, 1 light detection and ranging (LiDAR) sensor, 9 radars, and 12 ultrasonic sensors located both inside and outside the vehicle for optimal performance and safety.

Key automotive displays featured in the AFEELA 1 include:

·   A 31.5-inch Micro LED display positioned externally, supplied by AUO, which Sony Honda Mobility refers to as the media bar. .
·   A digital cockpit comprising two LTPS TFT LCD displays, measuring 12.3 inches and 28.5 inches, working together create a P2P effect.

Figure 1: The exterior of the AFEELA 1 and the media bar

Source: Omdia analyst photo, CES 2025

 
The media bar is crafted from Micro LED technology chosen for its high brightness, strong resistance to shock and vibration, and durability in extreme weather conditions.

Sony Honda Mobility stated the following:
The Media Bar is a symbolic information display on the vehicle’s front face. AFEELA’s unique interface creates an interactive relationship between people and mobility. The Media Bar is designed to provide surrounding users with real-time weather, traffic, sports results, and trending information for the current location.

Figure 2: The AFEELA 1 media bar applications

Source: Sony Honda Mobility
 
The digital cockpit, referred to by Sony as the panoramic screen, features a 12.3-inch LTPS TFT LCD and a 28.5-inch wide-aspect ratio LTPS TFT LCD, positioned side-by-side to create a seamless P2P effect. Additionally, a Mini LED backlight is embedded into the setup, enhancing picture quality and dimming contrast.

Sony Honda Mobility stated the following:
The Panoramic Screen maximizes the use of in-cabin space and extends before your eyes. Notably, the Panoramic Screen’s horizontal design achieves both intuitive operation and superior visibility, minimizing vertical eye movement while driving and allowing the driver and passengers to check for the information needed at a glance.

Figure 3: The panoramic screen of the AFEELA 1

 Source: Sony Honda Mobility

Figure 4: The AFEELA 1 cockpit includes a P2P effect operation view

Source: Sony Honda Mobility

Figure 5: The AFEELA 1 cockpit includes a P2P effect operation view

Source: Sony Honda Mobility