For its EX90 all-electric SUV, Volvo has partnered with Bowers & Wilkins to bring its high-fidelity sound system to the seven-seater vehicle to deliver an “ultra-realistic 3D surround sound” via 25 speakers.
Stated to have the quietest Volvo cabin yet, the EX90 benefits from optimized speaker placements – in the dashboard, doors, headlining, rear-wheel housing and headrests of the front-row seats – and loudspeaker technology based on recording studio equipment.
In addition to the optimally positioned speakers, occupants can also listen to audio using Dolby Atmos, which enables artists to place individual sounds in a 3D space to create a rich audio experience that provides “depth and clarity”.
The system has a range of listening modes to suit differing occupant requirements. Studio mode delivers neutral and pure sounds; Individual Stage setting sounds like “an artist performing just for you”; and Concert Hall mode produces a sound influenced by the concert hall in Gothenburg.
The entire Bowers & Wilkins system delivers 1,610W and many of the speakers feature double etched and brushed stainless steel speaker grilles housed in backlit wood paneling to achieve excellent acoustic transparency for enhanced sound quality.
“For the new Volvo EX90, Bowers & Wilkins was a natural and obvious choice as the partner for our premium audio system. Its highly acclaimed approach to sound exudes quality and complements our design language seamlessly,” said Jorge Furuya, head of car UX, Volvo Cars. “This premium audio experience is what our customers have come to expect from us and we are happy to partner with some of the most respected names in audio to deliver it.”
“As we move toward a decade of close collaboration with our partners at Volvo Cars, we are proud to bring the premium audio system in the Volvo EX90 to the market,” commented Dan Shepherd, vice president licensing partnerships, Bowers & Wilkins. “The latest and most sophisticated in-car entertainment system we have developed together, it provides an exceptionally realistic and immersive listening experience.”
