JLR has expanded its long-standing engineering partnership with Meridian to provide and develop high-performance in-car audio technologies for its upcoming electric vehicle architectures.
Since 2010, JLR and the Cambridge-based audio experts have collaborated to develop the audio systems in all of its brands, including Jaguar, Range Rover, Defender, and Discovery.
The expansion of this partnership is essential as JLR’s goals for contemporary luxury electrification develop since it will allow Meridian’s experts to contribute to the design of new models even earlier. With cabins intended to ensure that the best possible audio experiences can be delivered, this early effort has come to define the relationship between JLR and Meridian.
“The collaborative partnership between JLR and Meridian allows us to deliver fantastic sounding audio systems while being sympathetic to the design language of the vehicles. Together we will ensure the listening experience in our vehicles continues to be as engaging and enjoyable as possible,” said Callum Hubbard, Technical Specialist – Vehicle Audio Technology, JLR.
“It’s a true collaboration that creates one stronger team from the expertise of both participants, working together from a very early stage to create and deliver innovative, value‑adding experiences,” commented John Buchanan, CEO, Meridian Auto.
Range Rover models equipped with the Meridian Signature Sound System represent the current state of excellence in Meridian in-car audio technology. For the most immersive sound, this 1600W system has 35 speakers, including two 20W speakers in each of the four primary headrests.
In order to ensure that passengers have a first-rate experience, the audio system complements the basic refinement offered by the MLA-Flex body architecture. Third-generation Active Noise Cancellation tracks sound from the engine, tires, and wheels that are transferred into the cabin. It then creates a cancelling signal that is delivered through the speakers of the system.
This technology can help electric vehicle passengers feel rejuvenated even after the longest travels by tracking wheel vibrations, tire noise, and engine sounds that are carried into the cabin and producing a canceling signal through the speakers.
Another innovation from the joint venture between JLR and Meridian is the optional Range Rover Tailgate Event Suite, which adds four more rear speakers to the entertainment system, so it sounds great when the tailgate is opened for entertaining.