Honda-Sony Electric Cars Controlled by PlayStation Gamepad

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

However, what truly captures visitors’ attention about the Afeela are the array of new technologies it boasts. 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 car’s autonomous features are supported by a system consisting of 45 Sony sensors, both inside and outside the vehicle, which include cameras, radar, and lidar for safety systems and semi-autonomous driving.

The technological capabilities of the Afeela were 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, astonishing both 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 is set to be officially launched in 2025, with production beginning shortly after and customer deliveries starting in early 2026. The price of this electric model from the Sony Honda joint venture has not yet been disclosed.

Thái Son (Tuoitrethudo)