Sony is set to make a significant impact in the electric vehicle market with its upcoming model, the Afeela, developed in collaboration with Honda through their joint venture, Sony Honda Mobility. This electric vehicle is slated for launch in 2026 and aims to revolutionize travel by infusing the journey with immersive entertainment, particularly gaming, leveraging Sony’s extensive experience in this sector.
One of the standout features of the Afeela is the integration of PlayStation Remote Play, a pioneering innovation in automotive technology. This allows users to access and play games from their existing PlayStation 5 or PlayStation 4 consoles while inside the vehicle. Instead of running games natively, the system streams gameplay directly from the user’s console, creating a console-like gaming experience through the car’s advanced digital infrastructure.
Safety has been a primary concern in the development of this feature. The driver can only access PlayStation Remote Play when the vehicle is parked, ensuring that road safety is not compromised. Passengers, however, can enjoy gaming while the car is in motion, making the Afeela an attractive option for families or groups on long journeys or during heavy traffic.
The cabin of the Afeela has been conceptualized to reflect Sony’s vision of a connected vehicle focused on entertainment. Featuring a broad digital layout at the front, the car boasts three screens displaying vehicle information, navigation, and various infotainment options. Additionally, rear passengers will benefit from two dedicated screens, enhancing the in-car entertainment experience significantly. These screens are closely integrated with Sony’s renowned audio technologies, promising an immersive auditory experience that complements gaming, movies, and music alike.
While the concept of gaming integrated into vehicles is not entirely novel—having been explored in a limited capacity by models like the Tata Safari in 2003—the Afeela represents a much more sophisticated implementation. By harnessing cloud connectivity, high-quality displays, and advanced audio systems, Sony and Honda are positioning the Afeela as a mobile entertainment hub rather than just a mode of transportation.
On the performance front, the Afeela is expected to be equipped with a robust 91kWh battery pack, offering a claimed driving range of approximately 300 miles or 482 kilometers on a single charge. This places the Afeela firmly in the premium electric vehicle category, both in terms of performance and pricing. In the United States, the anticipated starting price is around $102,000, with pre-bookings available upon a refundable deposit.
Despite considerable global interest in the Afeela, an introduction to the Indian market currently appears unlikely. Nevertheless, this vehicle serves as a clear indication of Sony’s ambitions that extend beyond traditional consumer electronics. By combining mobility, entertainment, and digital services, the partnership between Sony and Honda aims to redefine user expectations for modern electric vehicles.
As the landscape of electric vehicles continues to evolve, the Afeela suggests that the future of driving may increasingly focus on digital experiences, transforming the perception of travel into something much more engaging than merely moving from one location to another.
