Drivers can play video games in their car with first of its kind remote feature
A soon-to-be-launched new car model will push the boundaries of in-car infotainment systems in a way never seen before.
The technology promises to allow drivers to play games in their vehicles, but with some significant caveats considering how the feature is implemented.
The Afeela 1 is expected to begin shipping in California in 2026, marking the first release of the new EV automaker Afeela and the debut of its new video game streaming technology.
The video games that drivers will soon be able to play in their vehicles come from Sony’s proprietary PlayStation platform.
Specifically, vehicles will support PS Remote Play for PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4 consoles that drivers already have at home.
“The introduction of PS Remote Play embodies AFEELA’s vision for mobility: transforming the travel space into an engaging and emotional one,” said Izumi Kawanishi, President, COO and Representative Director of Sony Honda Mobility (SHM), in a statement on the new feature.
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“Through this integration, we elevate the customer’s entire travel experience to an unprecedented level of entertainment,” he added.
Afeela is the trade 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 game streaming rather than downloaded software, using it will require an internet connection.
A broadband connection of at least 5 Mbps is required to play the games, while additionally recommending a stable 15 Mbps connection for “a smooth remote gaming experience.”
The feature also requires a PS5 or PS4 console to stream the games, meaning motorists who only own an Afeela and neither home game console will not be able to take advantage of this feature.
The Afeela 1 is produced at one of Honda’s factories in the United States and will integrate Epic Games’ Unreal Engine 5 not only for its infotainment system, but also for other communication and safety features.
The retail price of the Afeela 1 starts at $89,900 for the Origin version and goes up to $102,900 for the Signature version. While Signature version vehicles will begin to be delivered in 2026, the Origin version will not be available until 2027.
Why don’t people buy electric vehicles?
In January, many electric vehicle makers reported slowing demand. Reuters said there were a few valid reasons for a slowdown in demand:
- High initial costs. Many automakers, such as Tesla, Hyundai and Ford, have made “price drops” on their flagship electric vehicles to attract new buyers, although demand remains slow.
- Higher insurance costs. Some insurance companies cite fire risks, high battery replacement costs and heavier vehicle weight to justify higher premiums.
- Load anxiety. A large percentage of people fear finding themselves in a situation where they won’t be able to recharge if they run out of battery due to a lack of infrastructure.
- Range anxiety. In many cases, electric vehicles still lack the range and infrastructure of gasoline vehicles.
- Poor performance at extreme temperatures. Reduced range in extremely hot or cold weather makes potential buyers wary.
Source: Reuters
