Sony Introduces Innovative Vehicle Controlled by PlayStation 5 Controller

Sony captivated audiences at CES 2024 with a cutting-edge demonstration that used the DualSense wireless controller from the PlayStation 5 to operate a real automobile.

This unexpected venture into the realm of automotive technology not only turned heads but also shattered conventional expectations.

The star of the show was Sony’s Afeela, a concept car developed in collaboration with Honda and first unveiled at CES 2023. 

This visionary vehicle, termed a Software-Designed Vehicle, took center stage as Sony Honda Mobility President Izumi Kawanishi remotely piloted it onto the platform using the DualSense controller. 

The darkened stage came alive with the Afeela’s headlights, and any suspicions of a concealed driver were dispelled by cameras inside the cabin.

Kawanishi underlined that the DualSense compatibility showcased was a technical demonstration, emphasizing Sony and Honda’s joint commitment to the transformative power of software. This event underscored Sony’s pivotal role in the convergence of gaming and technology in unprecedented ways.

Sony’s CES Automotive Exploration

The Afeela boasted advanced features, including an AI vision system for automatic driving assistance and an Advanced Driver Assist System (ADAS) Simulator powered by Epic Games’ Unreal Engine 5. This simulator projected the car’s surroundings on internal screens, enhanced with multimedia applications, providing an immersive experience for both driver and passengers.

Sony’s innovation marked a departure from the conventional use of PlayStation technology to create virtual worlds. Instead, the DualSense controller demonstrated its ability to influence the real world, becoming a standout moment at CES and reinforcing Sony’s commitment to pushing technological boundaries.

While the demonstration of controlling a car with a PS5 controller is currently limited to a one-time tech demo, Sony’s integration of the DualSense into various devices, from the PlayStation Portal to the PSVR 2 and PS5 Access Controller, hints at the potential for future non-gaming applications. 

As CES continues to be a platform for groundbreaking innovations, Sony’s foray into the automotive space with the DualSense controller adds another layer to the convergence of gaming and real-world technology, leaving enthusiasts eager to see what the future holds for this versatile device.