Hyundai includes Dolby Atmos technology as standard in the new Elexio SUV

Dolby Atmos, the dominant name behind spatial audio in theaters and at home, has become a staple in luxury vehicles from the likes of Mercedes-Benz, Rivian, Cadillac and Lucid with prices priced upwards of $70,000. But now, Hyundai includes Dolby Atmos The sound is in the new entry-level Elexio EV — a China-exclusive SUV (for now) that costs between 119,800 and 149,800 Chinese yuan (or $16,800 to $21,000).

Unlike more luxurious cars that included Atmos as part of the premium package, the Hyundai Elexio will offer it as standard on all models with its six built-in speakers. There is the option to increase that to eight speakers with an external amplifier. While this may not amount to the dozen or so speakers available in the Cadillac, Rivian, or Lucid, the inclusion of Dolby Atmos with six to eight speakers has the potential to deliver a more immersive and satisfying audio experience while driving the kids to school or stuck in rush hour traffic.

Kugou Music and iQIYI streaming services will be integrated into the car, and Dolby’s press release says: “Elexio passengers can enjoy music, movies and dramas in Dolby Atmos in their cars, turning the car cabin into an entertainment center on wheels.” (I do not support watching movies or dramas while driving your car).
Could this be the beginning of Dolby Atmos reaching larger audiences? Having heard Atmos in a few cars, I hope so. But so far there is no news of affordable Dolby Atmos-enabled cars in markets outside China.