Nissan and Bose buzzing over new LEAF-bound, energy-efficient BEES sound system

By Nick Jaynes February 6, 2013

The Nissan LEAF EV is a very quiet vehicle inside and out. Now, however, it’s getting a bit louder, thanks to a specially designed Bose sound system.

Nissan has long wanted to include a bumpin’ sound system as an optional extra on its LEAF EV. No system – until now – fit Nissan’s requirements because the systems either weighed too much or drew too much electricity. For Nissan to feel comfortable installing a premium sound system into its EV, it would have to be both lightweight and efficient.

To solve this, Nissan teamed up with Bose to design a sound system specifically for the LEAF. It’s called the “Bose Energy Efficient Series” or “BEES,” as we like to call it. Available on SV and SL LEAF models, the BEES is now included as an optional premium package.

Eager to squeeze as much sound as possible from an energy-efficient system, Bose engineers designed lightweight speakers and amplifiers that would perform at a high level, without significantly dwindling the LEAF’s energy supply. The result is a system that is both compact and lightweight and also extremely efficient.

Nissan adds some Yin to the LEAF’s Yang with a new high-efficiency Bose sound system — Image used with permission by copyright holder

Bose was able to fit its 4.5-inch Richbass subwoofer into its 6.2-liter custom Acoustic Waveguide bassbox. “The bassbox uses patented technology applied from Bose Wave home entertainment products to deliver rich, low-frequency performance from a very small enclosure,” Nissan bragged in the product press release.

At the heart of the efficient system is an amplifier that not only draws less power than a standard unit; it also operates at a cooler temperature, which allows for its compact, lightweight structure. In a side-by-side, Nissan-produced video comparison (see video below), this specialized amp was able to run 50 percent longer than a standard in-car amp on the same amount of power.

We haven’t yet heard the resulting tones from the BEES. With such a serene interior, we can only assume that the LEAF is now capable of creating quite the distinctive in-car audio experience. We can’t wait to pump out some really high-decibel tunes in an emissions-free EV.

Editors' Recommendations

Nissan Leaf gains more driver-assistance features, new infotainment tech for 2020

Topics

Former Digital Trends Contributor

Nick Jaynes is the Automotive Editor for Digital Trends. He developed a passion for writing about cars working his way…

Cars

Rivian R2 vs Hyundai Ioniq 5: Should you wait for the Rivian R2?

Rivian R2

Rivian has taken the wraps off of the Rivian R2, an electric SUV that's similar to the much-loved R1S, but smaller and, crucially, cheaper. But the R2 goes up against some serious competition. The likes of Hyundai have been building solid EVs for some time now -- including the Hyundai Ioniq 5.

The R2 and the Ioniq 5 each make a compelling case for themselves, and they're likely to end up being similarly priced if the Ioniq 5 doesn't get much cheaper and the R2 does end up being sold at $45,000. To be fair, the cars are pretty different -- the R2 is more of an SUV, while the Ioniq 5 is much more crossover-sized. But because of their similar price, you might be deciding between the two. How do they compare? We put the Rivian R2 and the Hyundai Ioniq 5 head-to-head.
Design
The differences between the Rivian R2 and the Hyundai Ioniq 5 are perhaps no more apparent than when it comes to design.

Cars

The 6 best remote car starters in 2024

Best car remote starters

While some modern vehicles come standard with remote start features, it's still relatively uncommon. That's a shame because if you live somewhere where cold weather, snow, and ice are frequent concerns, a remote car starter is one of the best auto accessories you can have. If you're not familiar with them, a remote car starter works similarly to a key fob, except it will actually start your car from a distance instead of just unlocking the doors or trunk. That means you can start your car from the warm comfort of your home or office before venturing out. If you live somewhere hot, you can even start your car and let the AC run for a little bit. You'll never enter a freezing cold or scorching hot vehicle again.

The best remote car starters have long ranges, replaceable batteries, and other handy features — but how do you know which is best for you? We’ve compiled a list of the best car starters in a range of prices and features. Keep in mind that while you can install some yourself, some will require a professional.
The best remote car starters in 2024

Cars

The best portable jump starters for cars in 2024

The Clore Jump-N-Carry JNC660 portable jump starter connected to a truck battery.

Any time you hit the road, whether you're taking a short or long trip, it's a good idea to have backups handy. A spare or backup tire, some anti-freeze, windshield wash fluid, a road hazard kit, and, last but not least, one of the best portable tire inflators and a portable jump starter. You never know when cold weather, inadvertently leaving the dome light on, or plain old Father Time can curse you with a dead battery. Ensure you have one of the best portable jump starters that can save you in a jam, kickstarting your car even when there isn't anyone around to jump the battery. Naturally, that's why we’ve rounded up what we feel are the best portable jump starters for 2024.
The best portable jump starters in 2024

Buy the if you want the best portable jump starter overall.
Buy the if you want the best portable jump starter runner-up.
Buy the if you want the best portable jump starter and tire inflator combo.
Buy the if you want another name-brand option.
Buy the if you want the best portable jump starter for cheap.