Sony Honda Mobility to Launch Afeela Electric Cars in 2026
Sony Honda Mobility is set to unveil its Afeela electric cars starting in 2026, but the joint venture is already showcasing exciting features from this innovative vehicle.
During a recent demonstration at Sony’s PlayStation headquarters in San Mateo, California, I experienced the Afeela's unique capabilities firsthand.
Enhanced Interaction with AI
A standout feature is the "media bar" located above the bumper. It greeted me with a personalized welcome, "Welcome Dean Takahashi :)," and can be programmed to display custom messages like "Happy Birthday" or animated logos, such as Spider-Man.
The Afeela also boasts advanced safety features, including an “AI for ADAS” system designed to enhance driving safety while providing an engaging “Mobility as a Creative Entertainment Space” experience—encapsulated in the theme of “Redefining the relationship between people and mobility.” With an array of cameras detecting nearby obstacles, the vehicle prioritizes safety.
Innovative Entertainment Collaborations
Sony and Honda are collaborating with Epic Games to integrate cutting-edge entertainment and gaming features. This open platform allows developers to create applications for Afeela’s computing system. Partnering with Microsoft, they are also developing a conversational personal agent utilizing Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service.
Additionally, the collaboration with Polyphony Digital, the creators of the Gran Turismo series, aims to seamlessly merge virtual and real-world driving experiences. I was fortunate enough to use the simulator developed by Polyphony Digital, which showcased the vehicle's technology.
AI for Enhanced Safety
The Afeela features a sophisticated dashboard integrated with the AI for ADAS system, utilizing sensing devices, Vision Transformer technology, and machine learning for safe navigation. A redundant safety system employing Qualcomm's advanced automotive SoCs further enhances driver safety.
The vehicle simulates environmental conditions, incorporating information from other vehicles, pedestrians, terrain, and weather, combined with augmented reality (AR) for an immersive experience. Sony Honda Mobility will also provide a 3D map, enriched with extensive online metadata, to enhance the development of entertainment features. The powerful Unreal Engine 5, with regular updates, ensures cutting-edge technology integration.
In terms of safety, the company is developing a system that allows front-seat passengers to enjoy movies or games without distracting the driver. Raisu Williams, a product specialist at Sony Honda Mobility, confirmed that this technology is in development but details remain under wraps.
A Space for Entertainment
The Afeela creates an enjoyable environment for passengers while you drive. The platform allows creators to develop and share applications that enhance the Afeela experience, fostering a collaborative digital ecosystem.
Sony Honda Mobility and Polyphony Digital’s partnership seeks to bridge the gap between simulation technology and real-world vehicle development, focusing on enhancing human sensations and emotional experiences.
The Afeela is equipped with LIDAR sensors for self-driving capabilities and features AR navigation that visually guides users in real time. The vehicle's interior is designed for gamers, equipped with cameras that monitor driver distraction and fatigue, while proactive alerts ensure safety.
An exterior media bar can welcome passengers with custom messages, enhancing the overall experience.
Streamlined Access and Personalized Features
Opening the Afeela differs significantly from traditional vehicles. Instead of a conventional door handle, the Afeela utilizes a button for access, which can be operated via smartphone. On entering, the car adjusts the seat and steering column to the driver’s preference, adding a personalized greeting on the dashboard display.
The main “panoramic” screen spans the dashboard, allowing for customizable displays to reduce driver distraction. Rear seat passengers can enjoy entertainment options, including TV, movies, and games. Williams mentioned plans for a three-passenger playback option that allows simultaneous viewing.
The steering system resembles a gamer-friendly “yoke,” with dedicated buttons for driver assistance features. Afeela's design prioritizes augmentation, autonomy, and affinity, cultivating a unique driving experience.
Personalization and Immersive Audio
Afeela is about creating memorable experiences. Williams highlighted the concept of customization, allowing drivers to tailor their vehicles with personal elements, from favorite cafes to ambient lighting inspired by Sony's gaming franchises. The spatial audio system immerses passengers in a rich sound experience, akin to a concert atmosphere.
The vehicle also incorporates the Stingray Karaoke app for in-car entertainment and PlayStation Remote Play, enabling gaming when parked.
Autonomy and Creative Expression
Sony aims to achieve Level 3 autonomy for the Afeela, featuring an array of sensors, AI, and machine learning for improved situational awareness, even in challenging conditions. The affinity aspect focuses on giving users a platform for creative expression, allowing them to share and showcase their content.
Simulator Experience
While I didn’t drive the physical Afeela, the simulator provided a realistic sense of the driving experience, simulating city driving conditions and emphasizing traffic law compliance—something I typically forego in traditional video games!
The Afeela will be available for presale in 2025, with anticipated deliveries in 2026, and I expect it to be an exceptional vehicle, particularly for gaming enthusiasts.
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