JLR Extends Partnership with Meridian to Enhance EV Audio Experience

Gaydon, UK, 01 July 2024: JLR has announced the extension of its longstanding engineering collaboration with Meridian, the British audio innovator. This partnership aims to develop cutting-edge in-car audio technology for JLR’s next generation of electric vehicle architectures.

Since 2010, JLR has partnered with the Cambridge-based audio specialist to refine audio systems across its brands: Range Rover, Defender, Discovery, and Jaguar. The extension of this collaboration allows Meridian’s experts to be involved earlier in the design process of new models. This early integration is crucial as JLR advances its luxury electrification plans, ensuring cabins are optimized for superior audio experiences.

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The partnership has enabled the delivery of exceptional audio systems that complement the vehicles’ design language. “It’s a true collaboration that creates one stronger team from the expertise of both participants,” said Callum Hubbard, Technical Specialist – Vehicle Audio Technology at JLR. John Buchanan, CEO of Meridian Auto, emphasized the collaborative efforts to innovate and enhance the listening experience in JLR vehicles.

One of the highlights of this collaboration is the Meridian Signature Sound System featured in Range Rover models. This 1600W system boasts 35 speakers, including two 20W speakers in each of the four main headrests, providing an immersive audio experience. The system, supported by the MLA-Flex body architecture, also includes a third-generation Active Noise Cancellation system, which monitors and cancels out wheel vibrations, tire noise, and engine sounds to maintain cabin serenity.

Another notable innovation is the Range Rover Tailgate Event Suite, an optional feature that includes four additional rear speakers, perfect for outdoor socializing with the tailgate deployed.

JLR is committed to transforming its business to achieve carbon net zero across its supply chain, products, and operations by 2039. The company has set a roadmap to reduce emissions through science-based targets by 2030. Electrification is a key component of this strategy, with plans for all models in the Range Rover, Discovery, and Defender collections to have a pure electric variant by the end of the decade, while Jaguar will transition to being entirely electric.

JLR, a British company at its core, operates two design and engineering sites, three vehicle manufacturing facilities, an engine manufacturing centre, and a battery assembly centre in the UK. It also has plants in China, Brazil, India, Austria, and Slovakia, along with seven global technology hubs. Jaguar Land Rover is a wholly owned subsidiary of Tata Motors Limited, part of Tata Sons.

Source: JLR and Meridian Extend Partnership for an Electrified Future