Mercedes-AMG has announced the launch of their first of its kind, state of the art technology, MBUX SOUND DRIVE. Said to deliver a ground-breaking interactive music experience, the technology uses software that allows the music to react to the way the car is being driven, creating a harmonious relationship between motion and melody.
MBUX SOUND DRIVE is the latest outcome of the long brand partnership between the German carmaker and rapper will.i.am of Black Eyed Peas fame. As the project progressed, will.i.am came up with the idea of using his skills as a record producer to develop an interactive music experience for the car.
From studio to the streets
The technology connects the car’s hardware with the music software through precise ‘in-car signals’ that enable the music to react to the driving characteristics in real-time. These pre-determined parameters range from acceleration and braking to energy recuperation and steering angle.
The technology is also capable of syncing with other in-car ‘signals’. One example could be the windscreen rain sensors that provide soothing rhythms during inclement weather to reduce stress and enhance concentration.
Platform power
Providing an immersive sound experience is just one part of the story. The long-term goal with MBUX SOUND DRIVE is to turn the technology into an open music platform. As a result, artists from around the world could create tracks, representing any music genre, in a new immersive audio format using MBUX SOUND DRIVE studio software.
New frontier for music creation
“Imagine a world where your car can become an instrument creating musical journeys. MBUX SOUND DRIVE enhances driving and sound technology, letting motorists reshape music just by driving. I’m excited to see how composers, producers, and songwriters will harness this to create new works and reimagine classics for motorist to drive to. MBUX SOUND DRIVE is not only a new frontier for music creation, but also opens up fresh, exciting and interactive listening experiences for drivers,” said will.i.am at CES 2024 where the new system was presented for the first time.
The introduction of MBUX SOUND DRIVE starts from mid-2024 and it will be available on Mercedes-AMG and Mercedes-Benz vehicles equipped with the second-generation MBUX system. Current owners can obtain the MBUX Software Update via the over-the-air (OTA) after receiving a notification that it is available in their region.
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