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Ford and Harman have teamed up to 'revolutionise' in-vehicle sound reproduction with the B&O Play audio system. Announced at the automaker's annual Further with Ford trend conference, B&O Play debuts in Ford vehicles globally from 2017.
According to a recent Ipsos 2016 Automotive Audio Branding study, roughly one-third of new car buyers say that the audio brand in their next vehicle would have a significant impact on their purchase decision. This means it is essential to offer good-quality in-car entertainment.
B&O Play is designed to provide the best experience with specifically tailored speaker placement and calibration for each vehicle in the Ford range. It is promised that optimal sound will be delivered regardless of the driving conditions and whichever seat they occupy.
Raj Nair, Ford's executive vice president, product development and chief technical officer, commented: "Customers tell us they value consistent, high-quality audio experiences, and our collaboration with Harman is helping provide that. This is just one of the ways we are creating richer, more engaging in-vehicle experiences for customers."
"Ford and B&O Play are a perfect match among brands that stand for quality, freedom and innovative design, coming together to revolutionise the driving experience for consumers," said Michael Mauser, executive vice president and president of Harman's Lifestyle Audio Division.
Ford and B&O Play unveiled an installation called Sound Journeys, an on-site experience that triggers the five senses. The installation brings to life three different environmental habitats - a forest, a canyon and an ocean - using B&O Play products.