Sony Drives Afeela EV Onstage at CES with PlayStation Controller

At the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2024, Sony Honda Mobility made a splash with their Afeela electric vehicle. But the real surprise wasn’t the sleek design or the advanced technology – it was how the car was driven onstage: using a PlayStation DualSense controller.

This wasn’t a feature meant for future Afeela owners, but rather a tech demo showcasing the potential for gaming technology to revolutionize the automotive industry. It’s a bold move that suggests Sony is serious about integrating its gaming expertise into the world of electric vehicles.

Afeela: More Than Just a Car

The Afeela is more than just a car; it’s envisioned as a “mobility entertainment space.” Sony sees it as a platform for immersive experiences, leveraging their experience in gaming, entertainment, and sensor technology. Imagine playing a racing game in your car, with the steering wheel and pedals responding in real-time to your actions, or using a virtual reality headset to immerse yourself in a virtual world while driving.

The PlayStation Connection

The use of a PlayStation controller onstage demonstrates Sony’s commitment to integrating gaming technology into the Afeela. The DualSense controller, known for its haptic feedback and adaptive triggers, could potentially be used to enhance the driving experience. Imagine feeling the rumble of the road or the force of braking through the controller, creating a more immersive and engaging driving experience.

Beyond Gaming: A Future of Connected Mobility

While the PlayStation controller demonstration was eye-catching, it’s just one example of how Sony plans to use technology to enhance the Afeela. The car is equipped with 45 sensors, including cameras, lidar, and radar, to create a 360-degree view of its surroundings. This data can be used for advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), autonomous driving features, and even entertainment experiences.

The Afeela is also designed to be connected to the internet, allowing for over-the-air updates and access to a variety of services. This could include streaming entertainment, online gaming, and even personalized recommendations based on your driving habits and preferences.

The Future of Automotive Entertainment

Sony’s vision for the Afeela is a glimpse into the future of automotive entertainment. By combining their expertise in gaming, entertainment, and technology, they aim to create a car that is more than just a means of transportation; it’s a platform for immersive experiences. The PlayStation controller demonstration is just the beginning of what’s possible.

As the automotive industry continues to evolve, we can expect to see more innovative uses of technology in cars. Sony’s Afeela is a compelling example of how gaming and entertainment can play a role in shaping the future of driving.