Honda-Sony Alliance’s Electric Cars Can be Controlled with PlayStation Gamepad

Compared to the concept version unveiled at last year’s CES, the Afeela showcased at this year’s exhibition has undergone some changes. The car now uses traditional rearview mirrors instead of cameras. The front bumper has been redesigned with air vents. The rear bumper protrudes slightly and is accompanied by a black decorative strip running across the tail of the car, just above the license plate area. In addition, the headlight cluster has been redesigned for a sharper look. Overall, the exterior design of the Afeela is less boring than before, but still lacks a distinct character.

However, the Afeela attracts special attention from visitors because it features numerous new technologies. Stretching across the dashboard are screens for various purposes, including driving modes, entertainment information, and in-car settings. There are also separate screens for the rear passengers. The autonomous features are supported by a system consisting of 45 Sony sensors both inside and outside the car, including cameras, radar, and lidar for safety systems and semi-autonomous driving.

The technology of Afeela was demonstrated live at CES 2024 when Izumi Kawanishi, President and COO of Sony Honda Mobility, used a PlayStation 5 game controller to drive the Afeela onto the stage to the amazement of the media and the audience at the exhibition.

According to the announcement, the Afeela is equipped with dual motors and a 4-wheel drive system. Each motor can generate a maximum power of 241 horsepower, along with a 91 kWh lithium-ion battery pack.

The Afeela will be officially launched in 2025, before going into production and reaching customers in early 2026. Currently, the Sony Honda joint venture has not disclosed the price of this electric model.

Thái Sơn (Tuoitrethudo)