Volvo EX90 gains immersive Abbey Road Studios sound experience

Volvo introduces Abbey Road Studios Mode in EX90 with Bowers & Wilkins audio, delivering studio-like sound via free OTA update.

Volvo has introduced a unique sound experience in its EX90 SUV with the launch of Abbey Road Studios Mode. Developed in collaboration with Bowers & Wilkins and the iconic London recording studio, the technology recreates the acoustic character of Abbey Road’s legendary spaces—without ever leaving the car.

Starting late June, the feature will roll out via a free over-the-air update for all EX90 models equipped with the optional Bowers & Wilkins High Fidelity Audio System. Going forward, it will be factory-installed in new EX90 and ES90 vehicles featuring the same audio setup.

At the core of this innovation is a detailed simulation of Abbey Road’s Studio One and Studio Two acoustic profiles. Engineers at Bowers & Wilkins, working closely with Abbey Road’s sound experts, carried out meticulous A/B testing to ensure the in-car sound mirrors the rich, spatial depth of the studios as closely as possible.

The standout feature is Producer Mode, which gives users the ability to act as sound engineers—modifying stereo width, adjusting reverberation depth, and toggling between vintage and modern sound styles. Multiple presets allow users to personalize their listening experience with remarkable flexibility.

The EX90’s role is far from passive in this equation. As one of the quietest cabins Volvo has ever built, its environment supports the full impact of the 25-speaker, 1610-watt system capable of delivering Dolby Atmos content. The result is an immersive experience that’s likely to impress even the most discerning audiophiles.

“This collaboration allows us to bring the unique sound of our studios into the Volvo EX90 for the first time, giving drivers the ability to shape and personalize their in-car audio,” said Jeremy Huffelmann, General Manager at Abbey Road Studios. Volvo’s own engineering chief, Anders Bell, called the move a “world-first experience” that shows how software updates can continue to add value to vehicles long after delivery.

In an era where personalization and software-defined upgrades are reshaping the automotive landscape, Volvo’s initiative stands out not just as a bold technical leap, but as a glimpse into how immersive audio might become a key differentiator for future premium vehicles. While currently exclusive to Volvo, the broader industry may not be far behind.