Automative giant Stellantis has recently opened its own Dolby Atmos 9.1.6 qualified immersive audio lab in Bengaluru, powered by Genelec Smart Active monitors.
The new lab, unique in India among OEMs, focuses on audio reference, production and quality assurance and plays a key role in Stellantis’ initiative to define unique audio strategies. The newly established lab also creates roadmaps for each of its brands, internalises automotive acoustic R&D capabilities, and supports its ‘Dare Forward’ plan to achieve carbon net zero by 2038.
Yves Bonnefont, chief software officer at Stellantis said: "Audio plays a vital role in our customers’ satisfaction and enjoyment of their vehicles, as well as alerting them to key functions and driving situations. This brand-new lab demonstrates our commitment to class-leading automotive acoustics – and highlights India’s pivotal role in Stellantis’ global strategy."
Spearheaded by Akshay Khanna, director and space leader in Acoustics Engineering, the lab aims to refine Stellantis' in-car audio systems. "The lab was created to help develop our in-house audio signature for cars," Khanna explained. "It ultimately aids in fostering programs, affording Features Over the Air and faster time to market."
The lab includes control over reverberation time, achieving 0.5 seconds in low frequencies and maintaining a linear 0.2 seconds from mid to high frequencies. It also aligns with stringent IEC and Dolby acoustical standards, earning a 100% score in several criteria, complemented by a Noise Criteria value of less than 20.
The room’s acoustics are crafted through advanced computational simulation modelling, including Finite Element Analysis, Boundary Element Method and Raytracing for a conducive time-domain response, which is paramount in realising the extraordinary, emotional potential of immersive recordings. The lab also sets new standards in air and structure-borne insulation, achieving a Sound Transmission Class score of 68. These methods enabled an accelerated 53-day project turnaround and the optimal use of materials, resulting in an impressive space that showcases the progress of automotive and mobility solutions.
Local Genelec partner Sound Team was involved with supplying the system, and provided both pre-sales and post-sales support.
The system relies entirely on Genelec Smart Active Monitors, with 8361s in the L-C-R positions, 8351s taking care of the surround and height channels, and a 7382 subwoofer handling the low frequencies. A 9301 AES/EBU interface provides multichannel digital audio connectivity, integrating the 7382 subwoofer into the immersive audio system. Finally, GLM software enabled precise calibration of frequency response, playback level and distance delay.