Retro Tech resurfaces: Sony Ericsson’s Bluetooth-Controlled Car – A Nostalgic Look Back
A forgotten piece of early 2000s tech is gaining renewed attention online: the Sony Ericsson CAR-100, a remote-controlled car steered entirely by a Sony Ericsson mobile phone via Bluetooth. Originally retailing for around €80, the CAR-100 offered a unique blend of mobile technology and toy innovation, and remarkably, could be recharged using the same charger as its controlling handset.
Before smartphones dominated pockets, Sony Ericsson pioneered a novel use for its feature phones. The CAR-100 wasn’t just a gadget; it represented an early exploration of mobile device connectivity beyond calls and texts. While now largely a collector’s item, the CAR-100 foreshadowed the rise of app-controlled devices and the Internet of Things, demonstrating a vision of mobile phones as global remote controls long before it became commonplace. Its appeal lies in its simplicity and the novelty of repurposing a phone into a vehicle’s command center.
The CAR-100 operated through a Bluetooth connection,allowing users to control the car’s movement directly from their Sony Ericsson phone. Beyond the remote control functionality, a key feature was its convenient charging system – the car could be powered up using the phone’s standard charger, offering a fast recharge in minutes.
Finding a working CAR-100 today proves challenging, as production ceased years ago with the decline of the Sony Ericsson brand.Tho, online communities and retro tech enthusiasts continue to share memories and seek out the elusive toy, a testament to its enduring appeal. The device was originally highlighted by Kraftfuttermischwerk.de.
