Ford sounds out Harman B&O Play partnership

Sound system designer and manufacturer Harman is now collaborating with Ford to bring upgraded sound on a global scale to Ford's vehicle line-up.

Ford says that a recent Ipsos 2016 Automotive Audio Branding study, showed that around one-third of new car buyers say that the audio brand in their next vehicle would have a significant impact on their purchase consideration.

This brand recognition feedback is obviously an important way forward for Ford, and hence the collaboration with Harman – merging the qualities of a premium audio brand with the mainstream reach of the blue oval.

Details are a little light at the moment, but the exclusive deal indicates the stylish Bang & Olufsen HARMAN brand will be providing B&O PLAY-branded sound systems acoustically calibrated for each Ford model.

According to Ford: "To suit different customers and driving environments, the system's signature sound is tailored specifically for every Ford model."

"Customers tell us they value consistent, high-quality audio experiences, and our collaboration with HARMAN is helping provide that," said Raj Nair, Ford's executive vice president, product development and chief technical officer. "This is just one of the ways we are creating richer, more engaging in-vehicle experiences for customers."

Ford is hinting that the new audio experience utilising B&O PLAY products will take the audio experience beyond the car.

"B&O PLAY products reimagine more than 90 years of audio heritage, with natural materials, distinctive design and high-quality audio for seamlessly integrated experiences, whether a listener is in their home, on the go, or soon, in their car."

Ford announced the exclusive collaboration with HARMAN during the car maker's annual 'Further with Ford' trend conference. B&O PLAY debuts in Ford vehicles globally starting next year.

"Ford and B&O PLAY are a perfect match among brands that stand for quality, freedom and innovative design, coming together to revolutionise the driving experience for consumers," said Michael Mauser, executive vice president and president of HARMAN's Lifestyle Audio Division.

"With our shared commitment to seamless engagement and elevated experiences, Ford is the ideal automaker to bring the transformative power of B&O PLAY audio to drivers and passengers worldwide," said Mauser.