The soon-to-be-released new car model will push the boundaries of on-board infotainment systems in an unprecedented way.
This technology promises to let drivers play with their cars, but with some important caveats given how the feature is implemented.
The Afeela 1 is scheduled to begin shipping in California in 2026, marking the debut of the new electric car manufacturer Afeela and the debut of new video game streaming technology.
The video games that drivers will soon be able to play in their cars are from Sony’s PlayStation platform.
More specifically, the vehicles will support PS Remote Play for PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4 devices that drivers already have at home.
“Introducing PS Remote Play embodies AFEELA’s vision for mobility: transforming the travel space into a captivating and emotional space,” said President, COO and Representative Director of Sony Honda Mobility (SHM) Izumi Kawanishi in a statement about the new feature.
Smart willy
The video shows the “world’s first” flying car, where the vehicle can fly over traffic jams
We are 3 kings
The new BMW iX3 rewrites the rulebook – it’s cheaper, faster and goes further
He added: “Through this integration, we are working to elevate the customer’s complete travel experience to an unprecedented level of entertainment.”
Afeela is the marketing name used for vehicles produced by the union between Sony Group Corporation and Honda Motor Company, Sony Honda Mobility.
PS Remote Play will be directly integrated into the Afeela In-Vehicle Infotainment (IVI) system.
However, since the technology will rely on streaming games rather than downloaded software, it will require an internet connection to use.
At least a 5Mbps broadband connection is required to play games at all, with a stable 15Mbps connection also recommended for a “seamless remote gaming experience.”
The feature also requires a PS5 or PS4 console to stream games, meaning motorists who only own an Afeela and not one of the two home gaming consoles won’t be able to take advantage of the feature.
The Afeela 1 is being produced at one of Honda’s factories in the US, and will integrate Epic Games’ Unreal Engine 5 not only for its infotainment system, but also for other connectivity and safety features.
The retail price of the Afeela 1 starts at $89,900 for the Origin edition, and reaches $102,900 for the Signature edition. While Signature cars will begin deliveries in 2026, the Origin model won’t be available until 2027.
Why don’t people buy electric vehicles?
In January, many electric vehicle makers reported slow demand. Reuters said there are a few good reasons for the slowdown in demand:
- High initial costs. Several automakers, such as Tesla, Hyundai and Ford, have made “price cuts” on their flagship electric vehicles to attract new buyers, although demand remains sluggish.
- High insurance costs. Some insurance companies cite fire risks, high battery replacement costs, and high vehicle weight as reasons for higher insurance premiums.
- Free anxiety. A large percentage of people still fear being in a situation where they will not be able to charge if the battery runs out due to lack of infrastructure.
- Range anxiety. In many cases, electric vehicles still don’t have the range and infrastructure of gas-powered vehicles.
- Poor performance at extreme temperatures. Low range in very hot or cold weather makes potential buyers wary.
source: Reuters