Will.i.am transforms a Mercedes into a sound experience

Advanced software allows music to react to the way the car is driven, transforming it into a virtual musical instrument.

Mercedes-AMG announces the launch of its first technology, MBUX SOUND DRIVE – an unprecedented partnership with creative, innovative artist and entrepreneur, will.i.am, to offer a revolutionary interactive musical experience. The technology uses software that enables music to react to how the car is driven, creating a harmonious relationship between movement and melody. The car thus becomes a virtual musical instrument, turning an already exceptional Mercedes-AMG driving experience into a musical and emotional journey.

Thanks to a set of sensors and advanced software, the MBUX SOUND DRIVE system interprets different driving dynamics — such as acceleration, deceleration, steering, and braking — and converts them into musical expressions, allowing the driver to “compose” in real time.

With the creation of MBUX SOUND DRIVE, the long-standing partnership between Mercedes‑AMG and multi-platinum rapper will.i.am opens new horizons. As the project progressed, will.i.am had the idea to utilize his expertise as a record producer to develop an interactive musical experience for the car. The technology connects the vehicle to the music software via precise “embedded signals” that allow music to respond in real time to driving characteristics. These pre-set parameters include acceleration, braking, energy recovery, and steering angle. The technology can also synchronize with other “embedded signals.” For example, rain sensors on the windshield produce soothing rhythms during bad weather to reduce stress and improve concentration.

The power of the platform – digital music serving everyone

Offering an immersive sound experience is just part of the story. The long-term goal of MBUX SOUND DRIVE is to turn the technology into an open music platform. Thus, artists worldwide could create tracks, covering any musical genre, in a new immersive audio format using the MBUX SOUND DRIVE studio software.

The deployment of MBUX SOUND DRIVE will begin mid-2024 and will be available on Mercedes-AMG and Mercedes-Benz vehicles equipped with the second-generation MBUX system.[1] Current Mercedes owners can access the MBUX software update via over-the-air (OTA) update using the update assistant on their MBUX screen or the Mercedes me app after receiving a notification that the update is available in their region.

Dynamic demonstrations at CES – immersive music on the road

To fully showcase the capabilities of MBUX SOUND DRIVE, Mercedes-AMG offers exclusive test drives at CES 2024. Visitors can visit the MBUX SOUND DRIVE booth at Diamond Lot and reserve an experience aboard a Mercedes-AMG EQE or an EQE SUV.

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