At CES 2024, Sony didn’t just unveil its new electric car, the AFEELA, it made a real splash by demonstrating how it could be driven…
At CES 2024, Sony didn’t just unveil its new electric car, the AFEELA, it made a real splash by demonstrating how it could be driven… with a PlayStation controller! Buckle up as we explore the details of this innovative and slightly mind-blowing feat.
Key Points:
- Sony and Honda’s AFEELA electric car took the spotlight at CES.
- The AFEELA was driven onto the stage using a modified PlayStation 5 DualSense controller.
- While the controller driving is likely not intended for production mo
A Car Made for Play:
- Joint Venture: The AFEELA is a collaboration between Sony and Honda, combining Sony’s tech expertise with Honda’s automotive manufacturing prowess.
- CES Spotlight: While the AFEELA itself isn’t entirely new, the PlayStation controller driving demonstration stole the show at CES.
- DualSense in the Driver’s Seat: Sony Honda Mobility president Izumi Kawanishi took to the stage and steered the AFEELA onto the platform using a modified PlayStation 5 DualSense controller.
Behind the Wheel with a Controller:
- Modified for the Road: The DualSense used had additional buttons and functionalities to handle driving tasks like acceleration, braking, and steering.
- Level 3 Autonamy: While the controller demonstration was a showcase, the AFEELA is currently considered a Level 3 autonomous vehicle, capable of handling most driving tasks on its own.
- Future of Play?: Is this a glimpse into the future of driving, where we control our cars with familiar gaming peripherals? Sony hinted that this was “for the purpose of the tech showcase,” leaving room for speculation.
More Than Just a Gimmick:
- Advanced Features: The AFEELA boasts an array of cutting-edge technologies, including AI-powered driving assistance, Unreal Engine-powered autonomous driving simulations, and seamless integration with Sony’s entertainment ecosystem.
- Safety First: While the controller stunt was exciting, Sony assures that safety remains the top priority. The AFEELA is equipped with robust safety features and will not rely solely on controller-based driving in production models.
The Road Ahead:
- Development Stage: The AFEELA is still under development, with a planned launch sometime in 2025 or 2026.
- Uncertain Future of Controller Driving: Whether controller-based driving will become a reality for consumer models remains to be seen. But Sony’s audacious demonstration has certainly sparked the imagination and opened up possibilities for the future of car interaction.