Polestar 2 is spearheading the introduction and development of new technologies for the Volvo Car Group. It is the first vehicle to feature a patented Acoustic Vehicle Alert System (AVAS) technology, engineered according to very specific parameters, and the entire structure was tuned to cancel certain vibrational frequencies, acting as a damper to reduce NVH (Noise, Vibration and Harshness).
Harman engineers have paid specific attention to the positioning of the external AVAS speakers to ensure the way the sound is radiated from the vehicle both complies with legal requirements and ensures a comfortable experience for both pedestrians and vehicle occupants. "We deliberately did not want Polestar 2 to sound like a robot or symphonic spaceship. We wanted very natural, subtle sounds that simply let pedestrians know the car is moving. At the same time, we wanted Polestar 2 to sound slightly unique and become identifiable as a Polestar, while remaining relatively simple,” explains Thomas Ingenlath, Polestar CEO.
But also on the inside, Polestar 2 presented a new take on what is considered to be a premium branded audio package, using only high quality components and the latest technology to design and integrate advanced audio. Interior noise levels are lower by 3.7dB compared to an equivalent combustion engine vehicle, further allowing sound engineers to create a specific experience for Polestar 2 occupants.
With Polestar 2, the audio engineering team was presented with the opportunity to create a new soundscape for the car. "We wanted the sounds inside Polestar 2 to reflect our minimalist and digital nature," continues Thomas Ingenlath. "When you listen to the tone of the various notes, they sound clean and high-tech. Their clarity also enhances safety by alerting the driver with sharp, distinct sounds."
Premium audio is part of the Plus Pack in the Polestar 2 offer. A 13-speaker, 600-watt Harman Kardon sound system elevates the audio experience and features unique technology. A ventilated subwoofer in the rear body cavity provides high-quality bass, and a second, air-powered subwoofer placed ahead of the dashboard changes the way the audio experience could be engineered as well.
Not only notable for its audio quality, the Harman Kardon system speakers are hidden in strategic locations in the cabin. For example, front door speakers, which usually take up valuable space that could otherwise be used for storage, are positioned higher up on the door panels and behind premium textile covers. This frees up space in the lower door pocket and contributes to the overall design theme.
Each front door features a polished metal button, inspired by high-end fashion and embossed with the Harman Kardon ‘60°’ motif. This motif is repeated on the speaker grille atop the dashboard, where the Harman Kardon logo subtly indicates the premium audio system’s origins.
Much like other digital components in the Polestar 2, over-the-air (OTA) updates allow improvements and new developments to the audio system to be rolled out remotely to owners. A new surround sound mode was included in Polestar’s February 2021 release, and further updates will be included over time.
Polestar 2 with Spotify
Polestar 2 also features Spotify Group Sessions Beta directly in its built-in Spotify app. The functionality allows passengers in the vehicle who have Spotify Premium accounts the ability to influence media in the car, without requiring the driver to manage playlists or queued songs – or log in and out of different accounts.
"We all know that sometimes the driver doesn’t have the best taste in music and my family tends to agree. The addition of Group Sessions Beta from Spotify is a great way for others in the vehicle to influence the playlist – and enjoy their favorite tracks," comments appropriately Thomas Ingenlath.
To join a group session, other users are able to scan a code from the Spotify app in Polestar 2 using the Spotify app on their smartphone. This links their device to the car’s app, and they can queue songs, podcasts, and playlists as they like. The driver can revoke access at any time – because passengers aren’t always right.
Spotify Group Sessions Beta is now available in all Polestar 2 cars which have the Spotify app installed.
www.harman.com
www.polestar.com
