B&O Play-branded systems will replace Sony audio systems in Ford cars starting next year.
B&O Play is a portable audio brand created by Bang & Olufsen in 2012 and then acquired by Harman last year.
Ford said B&O Play will appear in cars globally, but gave few specifics except to say the new amplifiers and speakers will be customized for each car model, with tailored speaker placement and calibration.
Forbes reports that Panasonic will continue to supply Ford’s SYNC 3 head units.
The Detroit Free Press implied Ford is seeking a high end audio image. B&O systems are already used in luxury cars from Mercedes-Benz, Audi and Aston Martin, but Ford’s will be the first application for the newer B&O Play brand.
In a press statement, Ford noted that a third of new car buyers say the audio brand in the vehicle will have a big impact on which car they choose, according to research firm Ipsos.
Again, if you doubted that people love car audio, be assured they do.
Source: Ford, Forbes, Detroit Free Press
