The daily commute is set to be transformed after Sony Honda Mobility announced its first electric vehicle will feature a built-in PlayStation Remote Play system. The Afeela 1, a sleek hatchback born from the partnership between the electronics giant and the veteran automaker, aims to turn travel time into playtime.

This fusion of high-end gaming and electric mobility signals a significant shift in the automotive world. For Kenyans observing the global evolution of electric vehicles (EVs), the Afeela is a vivid glimpse into a future where cars are not just for transport, but fully integrated digital spaces for work and entertainment.

Performance Beneath the Pixels

Beyond the gaming headlines, the Afeela packs serious performance credentials. The vehicle is powered by dual 180-kW electric motors, one on each axle, delivering a combined output of approximately 483 horsepower. This all-wheel-drive system is fueled by a 91-kWh battery, which the company claims will offer a driving range of up to 300 miles (about 480 kilometres) on a single charge.

To handle the technology, the car is equipped with an array of sensors, including lidar and radar, to support an advanced automated driving system. Inside, the cabin is a tech showcase with a panoramic screen for the driver and front passenger, and two additional screens for those in the back.

The Price of the Future

This level of innovation comes at a premium. The top-tier "Signature" model is priced from $102,000 (approx. KES 13.3 million), with a less expensive $89,900 (approx. KES 11.7 million) "Origin" base model planned for production later. Key specifications include:

• Powertrain: Dual motors providing all-wheel drive.
• Total Power: 483 horsepower.
• Battery: 91-kWh lithium-ion pack.
• Charging: Compatible with Tesla's Supercharger network.
• Entertainment: PS Remote Play for PS4 and PS5, requiring a home console.

The joint venture, Sony Honda Mobility, confirmed that manufacturing will take place at a Honda facility in Ohio, USA. Initial sales, set to begin with deliveries in mid-2026, will be restricted to California residents.

The integration of high-fidelity gaming into a vehicle underscores a broader industry trend: the car as the next frontier for immersive entertainment. As vehicles become more autonomous, developers are racing to redefine the passenger experience, transforming cabins into mobile living rooms.