Dolby Atmos in cars is no longer uncommon: more than 20 manufacturers now offer vehicles with sound systems that support the 3D sound format – including Cadillac, Mercedes-Benz, Polestar, Rivian, and Volvo. At this year’s CES, Dolby is also introducing the world’s first Auto LE Mega with an integrated display that also supports the dynamic HDR format Dolby Vision. The manufacturer is the Chinese company Li Auto, which wants to present all its new models in its domestic market with Dolby Atmos and Dolby Vision. The vehicle is not allowed to be driven around Las Vegas as it lacks the necessary road approval.
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The top model presented has two monitors: a 15.7-inch OLED display for the driver and front seat passenger and a fold-out 17-inch OLED display for the two rear rows, both located in the middle. In the demo, both screens produced a bright, high-contrast and colorful image. The Dolby Atmos sound was also enjoyable, with clear immersion and a clear treble effect.
In practice, the Dolby Vision system used in the Le Car is an IQ version: using sensors on and inside the vehicle, the image is adapted to ambient light so that, according to Dolby, viewers always see the best possible image – No matter what happens whether the car is parked in bright sunlight or passing through a tunnel.
Both of the Le Mega’s displays use OLED panels and support Dolby Vision.
(Image: Heise Online/Nico Jurran)
The Dolby Atmos system was designed according to the position of the display: the central channel plays from the middle of the vehicle proper, whereas in cars without mini TV screens with Dolby Atmos setups, it often plays directly in front of each passenger. Volume can be controlled separately on front and back.
According to Dolby, buyers in China not only use Li-Auto models to entertain passengers with videos and music while driving, but also sit in a stationary car to watch movies and series. The background is that conditions for optimal video enjoyment are often better than within the four walls of your home. In this regard, the models will redefine the term drive-in cinema.
Heise Median is the Official Media Partner of CES 2025.
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