Fully automated cars are nothing new, but autonomy is one of the core pillars of the joint Sony Honda Mobility venture in the Afeela . This otherworldly-looking EV is coming soon, with preorders set for 2025 and delivery in 2026. It’ll be here before we know it, but after sitting in one, I’m not sure if I’m ready to let an EV drive entirely for me.
I’ve tested more than 20 different electric vehicles this year, but I’m not convinced that the tech to offer fully autonomous driving is there yet. Yet, the Afeela is a totally different breed, down to its ostentatious interior space and minimalist design. Don’t get me wrong, the kid in me is dying for the chance at playing some of my favorite PlayStation games while in the passenger seat, but I’m not sure that I’m ready to get behind the wheel of an EV that can drive me around — mainly because of my experience of current smart cruise control systems found in the best electric cars.
I feel apprehensive just thinking about the prospect of a vehicle driving on its own without any intervention on my part. Here’s why. Current self-driving modes aren’t perfect You only need to look at what the market leader is doing when it comes to what a consumer-ready EV offers when it comes to a self-driving mode.
Tesla’s "Full Self-Driving" mode (FSD for short) offers conveniences such as following a route on a navigation system, responding to traffic lights and signs and automatically parking in spaces; it can even be summo.
