The speakers can apparently boost EV range and provide “personal bubbles” for each passenger with “virtual headphones.”

• A British audio speaker company claims its in-vehicle sound technology can boost range for electric vehicles with lighter weight and less energy consumption.
• Apparently, “electrostatic speakers” can generate “personal bubbles” within the cabin, reducing noise interference.
• Reports indicate that they are set to appear in an electric vehicle model this year, with speculations pointing towards the fully electric Range Rover as a possibility.

Car manufacturers worldwide continually seek methods to extend the driving range of electric vehicles. Established approaches include using dense batteries, energy-efficient engines, and streamlined body shapes. Nevertheless, an innovative UK-based firm asserts it has devised a fresh, unconventional approach that could possibly enhance the distance your EV can travel.

Uh, that solution would be energy-efficient speakers.

British firm
Warwick Acoustics
claims its sound technology can enhance the driving range of electric vehicles by up to 20 miles more than conventional audio systems. This extended range is due to the use of lightweight “electrostatic speakers,”
The Independent
First mentioned on Thursday, they have integrated these speakers into a prototype.
Polestar 2
, boasting a claimed reduction of 90% in weight, consuming 90% less energy, and achieving full recyclability. Of course, these figures could vary depending on factors such as battery size and overall vehicle weight.

It is said that the speakers are extremely slim, making their packaging straightforward and efficient. According to the company, these speakers are set to appear in a production car later this year. Rumors suggest they might feature in the upcoming fully electric Range Rover as reported by the media outlet.

Warwick Acoustics
explains in a blog
Electrostatic speakers produce sound through a very thin, electrically charged membrane positioned between two metallic plates. Once an audio signal is introduced, it generates an electrostatic field that causes the diaphragm to move, thus generating sound waves. In theory, this method promises superior clarity along with reduced distortion levels.

In contrast, conventional speakers employ coils and magnetic fields to produce audio. However, the company claims these components possess excessive weight and numerous movable elements, leading to distortions.

The firm claims that when placed within a headrest, conventional speakers face constraints with respect to frequency ranges and coverage areas. “An electrostatic speaker allows for the diaphragm to be designed so as to span across the whole surface of the headrest,” thereby enabling “every occupant to enjoy a precisely tuned sound field without experiencing abrupt drops in volume when turning their head.”

This could assist in establishing “individual zones” for each occupant without causing “audio interference.” Thus, when the driver needs to take a call, rear passengers can keep listening to their music undisturbed. Consequently, individuals within the vehicle wouldn’t have to argue about varying musical preferences or sound volume settings.

Auto manufacturers have been intensely dedicated to enhancing electric vehicles’ efficiency through the elimination of non-essential components, minimizing part count, employing mega-sized casting for significant sections of the chassis, and adopting a simplified production process akin to what Tesla has done. This focus aims at boosting both driving range and overall performance. Additionally, innovative approaches from component suppliers are emerging. However, you can be confident that beloved audio systems will remain an integral feature in these cars.

If the electrostatic speakers indeed find their way into the electric Range Rover as speculated, we will definitely test them out to determine whether they can compete with top-tier brands such as Meridian, Burmester, Bose, and others in the realm of high-end audio systems.

Got a tip? Reach out to the author:
suvrat.kothari@insideevs.com

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