Harman/Becker Automotive Systems GmbH (Harman/Becker), a division of Harman International Industries, Incorporated, will introduce new energy efficient audio and infotainment system at the Geneva Auto Show on March 3, 2009. The new infotainment system is designed to maximize performance and enjoyment while minimizing power consumption, achieved in part through a new Intel processor on board the iChange.
The new system will premier in the Rinspeed iChange “zero emissions” concept car, designed by Rinspeed, Inc.
“This introduction underscores our commitment to meeting the needs of energy-conscious customers without compromising performance,” said Dinesh C. Paliwal, Harman chairman and CEO. “Our automotive partners are working hard to deliver ever-increasing fuel efficiency, and this Harman development will extend that promise into the automotive infotainment space.”
The new system also offers a vision of the choices that Harman, a long-time technology leader in audio and infotainment, will be offering drivers in the very near future. The car of tomorrow will be permanently “on-line,” providing the best in information, communication and entertainment, with a performance spectrum that easily competes with any stationary application at home or in the office.
“We are delighted to continue our close relationship with Rinspeed through the iChange concept car,” said Klaus Blickle, CEO of the Harman Automotive Division. “Our collaboration blends the talents of two leading companies in the automotive sector, and we look forward to demonstrating new value to customers as we link high performance with energy efficiency.”
The infotainment system incorporates Harman Kardon GreenEdge technology, part of a company-wide commitment to satisfy the highest demands for sound reproduction while dramatically reducing energy consumption and weight. Twelve Harman Kardon HiETM high-efficiency speakers are driven by the company’s eight-channel Class D amplifier, which boosts efficiency in excess of 90%, compared to 35 to 50% in conventional models. By offering the optimum combination of low electrical demand, reduced weight and highly efficient amplifiers and loudspeakers, GreenEdge systems offer the benefit of maximum energy efficiency without compromising acoustic performance. In fact, acoustic transparency and dynamic behavior are significantly improved when compared to that of current conventional systems. In addition, an embedded satellite navigation system calculates the most energy-efficient route, and guides the driver to each destination by means of a photorealistic 3D display.
Harman International Industries, Incorporated is a US based manufacturer of high-fidelity audio products and electronic systems.