French audio specialist Devialet is taking its acoustic expertise beyond the living room and onto the road with the introduction of its latest automotive innovation, the LFE Box (Low-Frequency Extension Box). Making its debut in the all-electric DENZA Z supercar at the Paris Motor Show, the new technology promises to deliver powerful, immersive sound while addressing the space and weight limitations of conventional in-car audio systems.
Developed in partnership with DENZA, the premium automotive brand under BYD Group, the LFE Box represents a significant step forward in Devialet’s automotive ambitions. The technology will feature across all three versions of the DENZA Z — Spider, Racing and Coupé — bringing the French audio brand’s signature sound engineering into a high-performance electric vehicle.
Big Bass Without the Bulk
At the heart of the innovation is a completely reimagined approach to reproducing low frequencies inside a vehicle.
Drawing inspiration from Devialet’s iconic Phantom Ultimate speaker, the LFE Box features a sealed enclosure housing two woofers arranged in a Push-Push configuration. The drivers move in synchronised opposing directions, mechanically cancelling unwanted vibrations while producing controlled, powerful bass.
Unlike conventional automotive audio systems that rely on large subwoofers positioned in the boot or individual woofers installed within the doors, the LFE Box is integrated directly into the centre console.
This central positioning allows low-frequency sound to be distributed more evenly between the driver and passenger seats, creating a more balanced listening experience throughout the cabin.
The design also delivers practical benefits. By replacing five conventional audio components, including a bulky 15-litre boot subwoofer and door-mounted woofers, Devialet has created a more compact and lightweight solution.
For an electric supercar, reducing weight is particularly important, as it can contribute to improved energy efficiency and help preserve driving range. Removing large speakers from the doors also frees up valuable space and offers greater flexibility in cabin design.
A 13-Speaker System Designed to Surround You
The DENZA Z takes its audio ambitions further with a 13-speaker high-fidelity sound system, combining custom-engineered hardware with several of Devialet’s patented acoustic technologies.
Among them is SAM (Speaker Active Matching), a proprietary signal-processing technology that continuously models the electromechanical behaviour of the speakers in real time. By adjusting amplitude and phase, SAM is designed to extend low-frequency performance while maintaining precision and protecting the drivers from excessive thermal and mechanical stress.
The result is bass that aims to feel both powerful and controlled, without overwhelming the finer details of the music.
For a more immersive listening experience, the system also incorporates Devialet SPACE Spatialization, working alongside Dolby Atmos capabilities and roof-mounted speakers to create a three-dimensional soundstage.
Rather than hearing music only from speakers positioned around the cabin, passengers can experience a greater sense of height, depth and direction, bringing the atmosphere closer to that of a dedicated surround sound setup.
Personalised Sound for Every Journey
One of the more distinctive elements of the DENZA Z’s audio system is its Central Acoustic Sphere, inspired by Devialet’s Dione soundbar.
Positioned in the centre of the dashboard, the spherical speaker is designed to project voices directly towards passengers, improving vocal clarity and helping dialogue remain intelligible within the cabin.
The system also introduces a more personalised approach to listening through two speakers integrated directly into the driver’s headrest.
These allow the driver to enjoy music or take private phone calls without unnecessarily disturbing other passengers, creating separate listening possibilities within the same vehicle.
Bringing Home Audio Expertise to the Road
While Devialet is best known for its high-performance home audio products, including the Phantom speakers and Dione soundbar, the DENZA Z represents a deeper collaboration between the audio specialist and an automotive manufacturer.
For the first time in its automotive history, Devialet has participated in the complete development process of an audio architecture, from initial design and material selection to acoustic simulation and final assembly.
This level of integration allows the audio system to be designed around the vehicle itself, rather than simply adapting conventional speakers to fit an existing interior.
The approach is particularly relevant to electric vehicles, where manufacturers must carefully balance passenger comfort, cabin space, vehicle weight and energy efficiency.
By combining advanced acoustic engineering with a more compact speaker architecture, Devialet and DENZA are exploring how premium in-car entertainment can evolve without compromising the practical requirements of an electric supercar.
A New Direction for Premium In-Car Entertainment
The DENZA Z’s debut at the Paris Motor Show highlights how automotive audio is becoming an increasingly important part of the luxury driving experience.
Beyond powerful engines and striking exterior designs, premium vehicles are now placing greater emphasis on creating immersive, personalised environments for drivers and passengers.
With its centrally integrated LFE Box, 13-speaker configuration, Dolby Atmos capabilities and individualised headrest audio, the DENZA Z demonstrates how sophisticated sound engineering can become an integral part of vehicle design.
For Devialet, the collaboration also represents an opportunity to bring technologies developed for high-end home audio into a new environment, where space, weight and acoustics present entirely different challenges.
While pricing and market availability for the DENZA Z have yet to be announced, its innovative audio system offers an intriguing glimpse into the future of premium electric mobility.
