Shhh! How Ford plans to use noise-canceling headphone technology in its cars

Ford Mondeo Vignale speaker emitting sound waves to counteract cabin noise

Noise-canceling headphones do a great job of filtering out unwanted background sounds, such as the rumble of traffic or the chatter of crowds. It’s a clever technology, and one that Ford is set to implement in its vehicles, starting with the all-new Ford Mondeo Vignale.

The car giant’s Active Noise Control tech emits sound waves that cancel out engine, transmission, and wind noise, resulting in a much quieter journey. No need to crank up your music to drown out unwanted external sounds.

Three microphones, strategically placed in the interior, detect undesirable noises from the engine and transmission. The technology counteracts these noises with opposing sound waves from the audio system, all without affecting volume levels of music and conversation.

It also records and anticipates driver and vehicle behavior, for example when a driver is accelerating in a lower gear.

'Acoustic glass' in the windscreen and front windows additionally reduces the intrusion of wind noise caused by air flow around the window pillars.

"Whether listening to a favorite playlist, tuning into a much-loved station, or simply enjoying a respite from the demands of modern life, the experience of sound -- and just as importantly silence -- can be a fundamental part of an enjoyable car journey", says Dr Ralf Heinrichs, supervisor, Noise Vibration Harshness, Ford of Europe (fantastic job title!). "All‑new Mondeo Vignale with Active Noise Control offers drivers enhanced levels of comfort, and fewer distractions".

You can find out more about the new technology in this interactive infographic.

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