Jaguar-Land Rover launches noise-cancel tech

Jaguar Land Rover says it has developed active road noise cancellation technology that can help remove unwanted sound around the cabin area.

It says in a statement that by reducing low-frequency noise exposure, it can help prevent driver fatigue on longer journeys.

Specifically, the automaker says it is pioneering the software that will reduce motion sickness by adapting the driving style of future autonomous vehicles, to continue to provide its customers with the most refined and comfortable ride possible. It notes that there are a myriad of noises that can distract drivers and increase fatigue.

“In order to quell it, Jaguar Land Rover has revealed new noise cancellation technology that removes unwanted road and tyre sounds from the cabin and provides a quieter and more refined experience for drivers and passengers,” it states.

It says the technology, introduced on the new F-Pace, new XF and Range Rover Velar, is capable of lowering unwanted noise peaks by 10dB and overall noise levels by 3-4dB – the equivalent of turning down the in-car sound system by four ‘steps’.

The firm says this significant reduction in exposure to low-frequency noises up to 300Hz can help prevent driver fatigue on longer journeys.

According to theJLR, its aim to make roads safe by reducing accidents and improving driver well-being is a key component of the car company’s journey to Destination Zero: an ambition to make societies safer and healthier and our environments cleaner through relentless innovation.

Explaining how it works, it states that the Active Road Noise Cancellation, enabled by Silentium’s Active Acoustics technology, uses sensors on each wheel to constantly monitor the vibrations from the road surface and calculates the opposite phase sound wave needed to remove the noise heard by the occupants.

It also says the system uses sensors to monitor in real-time, unexpected noises from potholes or rough surfaces can be isolated and removed.

The cancellation sound is said to play through the Meridian sound system, with the vehicle monitoring cabin occupancy to optimise Active Road Noise Cancellation performance for all drivers and passengers.

The JLR says the technology offers a no-compromise solution to balancing refinement, vehicle weight and driving dynamics for a complete premium feel.Active Road Noise Cancellation combines with Engine Noise Cancellation on the updated F-Pace and new Range Rover Velar with the P400e plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain to further enhance the sense of well-being.

Iain Suffield, Jaguar Land Rover Refinement Advanced Technologies Specialist, is quoted as saying, “We are committed to creating a haven for our customers and this new technology allows us to remove unwanted noises from the cabin. It makes the experience more tranquil, improving passenger wellbeing and helping to reduce cognitive load and thus reaction times. This research is all part of the journey to Destination Zero.”

Dr Steve Iley, Jaguar Land Rover Chief Medical Officer, also said, “Active Road Noise Cancellation technology not only has the potential to improve road safety but also well-being and quality of life for our customers.

“In a post-coronavirus world, where a ‘new normal’ is emerging, we expect customer expectations of private transport to change. An extra focus will be placed on safe, clean mobility where personal space, well-being and hygiene carry a premium.”