What Is ‘Active Sound Design’ On The EV6 & EV9
What is ‘Active Sound Design’ on the EV6 and EV9?
Electric Vehicles
provide a quiet and refined driving experience compared to internal combustion engine (ICE) cars. For drivers accustomed to the engine sounds of traditional engines, this near silence may feel unfamiliar. Without that natural sound, the connection between driver and vehicle may be less engaging. Active sound design (ASD) addresses this by using advanced audio technologies that recreate and enhance sound feedback.
In Kia’s EV6
and EV9,
this technology works alongside active noise control and the Meridian Sound System to fine-tune in-car acoustics. This helps to balance cabin audibility while maintaining a sense of connection between driver and vehicle.
In this article, we will explain how active sound design works, where active noise control factors in, and the role both play in enhancing the driving experience.
How Does Active Sound Design (ASD) Work?
Active sound design (ASD) works by actively modifying in-car audio to mimic the engine sounds that drivers as familiar with. The system uses software to monitor real-time data to track and respond to vehicle speed, acceleration, and road conditions, adjusting the sound profile as you drive. This creates a dynamic, customisable soundtrack that changes with your driving style.
In some situations, ASD boosts subtle mechanical noises naturally produced by an EV, while in others it generates entirely new sounds. This can help bridge the gap between the silent operation of electric motors and the traditional engine hum. Moreover, ASD works alongside systems like active noise control and the Meridian Sound System to maintain
What Is Active Noise Control (ANC)?
Active noise control (ANC), or active noise cancellation, works similarly to noise-cancelling headphones to reduce unwanted cabin noise and counteract external disturbances. The system continuously checks ambient noise from the road, wind, and tyres and creates opposing sound waves to cancel it out. The result is a quieter, more comfortable driving environment. This is especially beneficial for electric vehicles,
where the absence of an engine hum can make other noises more noticeable.
Integrating ANC into the vehicle’s audio system supports clearer in-car communication, improved music quality, and a more refined cabin atmosphere.
Which Kia Models have Active Sound Design?
Kia has implemented active sound design and noise cancellation technology in the Kia EV6
and EV9.
• Kia EV6: The Meridian Sound System incorporates active sound design to enhance cabin acoustics via strategically placed speakers. This setup ensures that the dynamic audio cues – whether replicating engine sounds or delivering high-fidelity music – are delivered with precision and clarity.
• Kia EV9: In the larger, more refined EV9, ASD is tuned to create an immersive auditory environment. The system balances active noise cancellation with sound profiles that adapt quickly, ensuring that the vehicle’s acoustics respond seamlessly to varying road and driving conditions.
How Active Sound Design Enhances In-Car Infotainment
Beyond simply simulating engine sounds, ASD plays a vital role in elevating the in-car entertainment experience in Kia vehicles. By working in tandem with active noise cancelling, the system minimises background noise, ensuring that music, podcasts, and navigation prompts remain crystal clear. This clarity is particularly important on long journeys, where enhanced audio quality contributes significantly to driver comfort and engagement.
The Meridian Sound System in the Kia EV6
further refines ASD, optimising bass response and clarity to deliver an even richer soundstage. With seamless integration into Kia’s Infotainment
system, drivers can customise their in-car audio experience, selecting different sound modes that suit their preferences.
The Future of Active Sound Design
Ongoing innovations in active sound design and noise control signal an exciting future for in-car audio experiences. Kia continues to push the boundaries by refining ASD and ANC technologies, ensuring drivers enjoy an increasingly premium and intuitive driving experience. Helping to redefine how we experience both performance and infotainment in electric vehicles.
Images shown are for illustration purposes only and may not be to full UK specification. Features shown are not standard across the Kia model range and availability will vary dependant on model. For further details please refer to the individual model specification sheets.
Product availability varies by models. To find out which products are available for your vehicle, please contact your Kia dealer.