As the UK government confirms that fully autonomous vehicles will not operate on public roads until at least the second half of 2027, Asahi Kasei Microdevices (AKM) and Swedish audio software firm Dirac have announced a strategic partnership to integrate smart acoustics into automotive audio systems — positioning themselves to meet the demands of future driverless mobility.
The partnership will see Dirac’s AudioIQ software embedded into AKM’s range of automotive digital signal processors (DSPs), including its flagship AK7709. The integration is designed to improve in-cabin sound quality, reduce tuning complexity, and help manufacturers optimise passenger experiences in autonomous vehicles, where entertainment and comfort are expected to play a central role.
“With the electrification of vehicles and growing demand for premium passenger experiences, high-quality in-cabin sound has never been more critical,” said Takeshi Fujita, General Manager for the ES Project at AKM. He said the collaboration would support a “more natural and immersive acoustic environment” for vehicle occupants.
The move comes as the UK’s Department for Transport (DfT) adjusts its timeline for the rollout of self-driving technology. Although the Automated Vehicles Act came into force in 2024, the DfT told the BBC it plans to implement self-driving vehicle legislation in the second half of 2027, a year later than previously expected. In the interim, the government is preparing for additional trials and pilot schemes to establish conditions for a viable autonomous vehicle sector.
AKM and Dirac’s partnership is structured around this longer-term transition. Dirac’s AudioIQ platform, which combines measurement-based tuning with adaptive signal processing, is intended to give carmakers a scalable solution that accommodates various cabin layouts while reducing time-to-market. According to Ramzi Khalaf, Director of Strategic Partnerships at Dirac, the integration allows OEMs to “deliver best-in-class sound performance” without the cost of traditional tuning methods.
AKM, which has shipped over 200 million DSPs globally, will also leverage its proprietary features — such as Dynamic Sound Control and Karaoke Mode — to further enhance the passenger entertainment experience.
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By GlobalDataBoth companies plan to extend their collaboration to future DSP generations, aligning their technologies with the UK’s revised legislative roadmap for autonomous vehicles and broader industry efforts to redefine the in-cabin experience.
Driving the future of sound: Q&A with Dirac’s VP of automotive on tech and trends
Frequently asked questions
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When will fully driverless cars be allowed on UK roads?
The UK government has confirmed that fully autonomous vehicles—operating without human safety drivers—are not expected to be permitted on public roads until the second half of 2027. This follows a delay from the initial 2026 target set by the previous government. The Department for Transport is continuing to support trials and pilot schemes in the meantime.
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What is meant by the ‘in-cabin experience’ in autonomous vehicles?
The in-cabin experience refers to the environment and amenities available to occupants of a vehicle. As vehicles become more autonomous, and occupants shift from driving to riding, there is greater emphasis on features such as immersive audio, personalised lighting, enhanced seating comfort, voice interaction, and integrated entertainment systems.
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Why is audio technology important in driverless vehicles?
With the driving task automated, passengers are expected to spend more time consuming media or engaging in conversation. High-quality, adaptive audio systems enhance entertainment, communication and safety alerts. Technologies such as spatial audio, noise compensation and voice clarity are increasingly prioritised by vehicle manufacturers.
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What is a software-defined vehicle (SDV)?
A software-defined vehicle is one in which key vehicle functions—such as infotainment, driver assistance, powertrain management and comfort settings—are controlled or updated through software rather than fixed hardware. This architecture allows manufacturers to issue over-the-air updates, enable new features post-sale, and improve system performance without physical modifications.
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How are in-car systems adapted for different passengers and environments?
Advanced digital signal processing and software platforms use real-time data to adjust audio output, cabin lighting, seat settings and temperature based on passenger location, ambient noise, vehicle speed and road conditions. For example, sound balancing can compensate for open windows or engine noise, and different media can be played simultaneously in different seating zones.
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How will autonomous vehicles affect motor finance models?
The shift to autonomous vehicles is expected to drive changes in motor finance, particularly around vehicle ownership, usage, and residual value forecasting. As self-driving technology enables new mobility models—such as subscription services, shared fleets and pay-per-use schemes—traditional hire purchase and PCP (personal contract purchase) products may become less dominant. Finance providers will also need to account for the high cost of embedded software, the potential for over-the-air upgrades, and manufacturer liability when assessing asset value and risk. Residual value projections may become more complex, as vehicle functionality could evolve throughout the finance term.
