British audio manufacturer Meridian and JLR, collaborators since 2010, are set to harness new possibilities for immersive audio design in electric vehicles. They are currently developing groundbreaking technology that is expected to premiere in future JLR vehicles.
JLR has renewed its enduring engineering partnership with British audio pioneer Meridian to enhance and supply advanced in-car audio technologies for its forthcoming electric vehicle architectures. Since their partnership began in 2010, JLR has collaborated with Cambridge-based audio experts to engineer the sound systems for all its brands, including Range Rover, Defender, Discovery, and Jaguar.
This renewed collaboration will allow Meridian’s experts to contribute more significantly and earlier in the design process of new models, a move that is pivotal as JLR advances its modern luxury electrification strategy. This proactive involvement has become a hallmark of the relationship between JLR and Meridian, with vehicle interiors being crafted specifically to maximize audio performance.
Callum Hubbard, JLR’s Technical Specialist for Vehicle Audio Technology, emphasized the advantages of the partnership, noting that the collaboration between JLR and Meridian leads to the production of exceptional audio systems that align with the design ethos of their vehicles. He affirmed their shared commitment to maintaining a compelling and enjoyable audio experience in their vehicles.
John Buchanan, CEO of Meridian Auto, also highlighted the essence of the partnership, describing it as a genuine collaboration that merges the expertise of both companies. He explained that by working together from the beginning, they are able to create and deliver innovative and valuable experiences.
The Meridian Signature Sound System, found in Range Rover models, is the apex of Meridian’s in-car audio technology. This system boasts 1600W power and 35 speakers, including two 20W speakers in each of the four main headrests, offering an exceptionally immersive sound experience. The system also enhances the fundamental refinement offered by the MLA-Flex body architecture to promote a tranquil cabin environment, ensuring a first-class experience for passengers. It includes a sophisticated third-generation Active Noise Cancellation system that detects wheel vibrations, tyre noise, and engine sounds transmitted into the cabin and produces a counteracting signal played through the system’s speakers.
This technology aims to ensure that passengers feel rejuvenated upon reaching their destination, even after extended journeys. Further innovations from the JLR and Meridian collaboration include the optional Range Rover Tailgate Event Suite, which adds four additional speakers at the rear for an enhanced entertainment experience when the tailgate is open, perfect for social events.
