- By Vikas Yadav
- Tue, 09 Jan 2024 07:29 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
CES 2024: Sony Honda Mobility showcased its first EV concept car - the Afeela EV at the CES 2024 event. However, the twist is that the company used the PlayStation DualSense Wireless controller to remotely drive the car to the stage. The tech demo was steered by the president and COO Izumi Kawanishi of the company using the PlayStation controller during the demonstration.
However, Kawanishi noted that it was for the purpose of just the "tech showcase". It seems SHM aimed to create a surprising vibe in the press conference and for viewers who joined in live online. While this was the show-stealer moment of the conference, the host also shared a customisable option for the virtual displays inside the car, according to IGN.
"This remote driving demo is for the purpose of the tech showcase only. However, we believe that software can define new functions and values. We want to redefine the relationship between people and mobility," the COO added, according to the news outlet. As per the 2023 press note from Afeela, the company will develop a production model of the prototype (likely the EV in question) and may start taking pre-orders next year. The sales might begin by the end of 2025, with deliveries in 2026 in North America.
At the conference, Sony also shared customisable options for the virtual displays inside the car. (Image:Sony Honda Mobility)
SHM also unveiled "virtual spaces" to create new user experience. "This tool simulates external environmental conditions such as information for other vehicles, pedestrians, terrain, and weather. By combining this technology with AR, users will enjoy an immersive experience that also enhances safety."
They controlled Sony's and Honda's Afeela Car with a Dualsense Controller.
— Knoebel (@Knoebelbroet) January 9, 2024
It's just a tech demo. pic.twitter.com/U5FF02Hmcx
The brand will "provide an environment where creators and developers can freely develop applications and services that run on AFEELA," according to the release. Plus, the car will have a conversational assistant powered by Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service.
"To create our new user experience in mobility with vehicle data and sensing data, SHM is developing new entertainment and gaming features utilizing virtual space with Epic Games." While the concept has evolved, it remains "unchanged from the prototype", the company noted.