2026 Beijing Auto Show: Acoustic Tech Upgrades Propel Chinese Automakers

On April 24, 2026, the 19th Beijing International Automotive Exhibition opened at the Capital International Convention and Exhibition Center. At this year’s auto show, automotive acoustics emerged as a critical battleground in the competition for intelligent cockpits, reflecting a clear shift from basic functionality toward becoming the “auditory soul” of the cabin experience. Global and Chinese acoustic suppliers showcased numerous cutting-edge technologies, while automakers significantly upgraded their audio system specifications. Harman unveiled a central computing unit solution based on Qualcomm’s SA8775 platform, integrating audio processing with intelligent cockpit and ADAS systems, and introduced multi-source independent audio zones and electronic sound synthesis technology. Bose debuted six technologies—including SeatCentric sound zoning and UltraNearfield ultra-near-field seat-mounted speakers—on the Audi E7X, emphasizing precision sound field management. iFLYTEK launched a gallium nitride (GaN)-based master-grade acoustic system capable of 300W output per channel and integrated with over 30 AI-powered audio enhancement algorithms. Shengrui Electronics exhibited a 60-speaker system featuring a 10.3.10.8 immersive audio architecture and fully in-house developed end-to-end technology. AAC Technologies, as the developer of the “Naim Reference Audio System” for the Zeekr 9X, delivered an immersive solution comprising 32 speakers and eight seat shakers, and also supplies speakers for Xiaomi’s YU7. Dirac introduced its tiered Dirac Spaces automotive audio solution, scalable across premium to compact vehicle segments. Goertek’s RNC 2.0 PLUS active road noise cancellation technology is already deployed in mass-produced vehicles, achieving noise reduction of over 8 dB(A). Hangsheng Electronics launched its “Integrated Acoustics and Cabin-Domain Control” system, embedding audio processing into the central computing platform. Among OEMs, NIO’s ES9 features the Jiuxiao Tianqin 9.2.4.8 audio system with 47 speakers and a total output of 3,020W; Li Auto’s L9 Livis is equipped with a 2,160W, 7.3.4-channel system; the Audi E7X adopts Bose’s Performance Series; AITO’s M6/M9 models come standard with HUAWEI SOUND; the smart #6 debuts with Sennheiser’s Reference Audio system, including floating high-frequency tweeters; Zeekr 9X collaborates with Naim to deliver a premium audio experience; Cadillac’s Escalade employs a 7.1.4 AKG-tuned system; and BMW brings Dolby Atmos to its 7 Series. Currently, the global automotive acoustics market is dominated by Harman (approximately 36% share) and Bose (around 24%), but Chinese suppliers are rising rapidly. Companies such as Shengrui Electronics, AAC Technologies, iFLYTEK, and Hangsheng Electronics have formed a multi-tiered ecosystem, covering in-house hardware development, AI algorithms, and domain-controller integration. Dynaudio (owned by Goertek) focuses on new energy brands like BYD and XPeng. Key industry trends include: 1) Software-defined audio, with acoustic systems deeply integrated into central computing architectures; 2) AI-driven advancements in noise control, sound optimization, and personalized experiences; 3) Zoned audio becoming mainstream, enabling independent listening for multiple occupants; 4) Continuous evolution of immersive audio standards, surpassing traditional 7.1.4 channel configurations; 5) Chinese acoustic supply chains expanding globally alongside new energy vehicle exports. Market data shows that the global passenger car OEM audio market was valued at approximately $2.627 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach $3.467 billion by 2032. Including the aftermarket segment, the total market size is expected to grow from $11.1 billion to $20.72 billion by 2034. Driven by new energy vehicles, both speaker count per vehicle and system value are rising, with some models now featuring audio systems valued at the thousand-dollar level.