Backseat bickering and sibling squabbles have been an ongoing issue for parents since the invention of children. But now, thanks to the introduction of an innovative noise-cancelling front seat headrest, parents can enjoy their journeys and concentrate on driving.
Featuring ŠKODA’s new QuarrelKancel™ technology, the newest addition to the brand’s range of accessories features in-built speakers that can be deployed by the driver within seconds of a rear seat fracas breaking out.
Available exclusively as an option for the all-new ŠKODA Karoq, the noise-cancelling headrests are activated at the touch of a button via the ŠKODA infotainment system. The system can also work in ‘automatic’ mode, and can ‘listen’ for the first signs of an argument.
The system was conceived by ŠKODA’s Chief of Family Relations, Professor Si Lence and Special Projects leader, Dr April Fürst. “To create this technology, we recruited a ŠKODA ‘Scream Team’ – a group of volunteers dedicated to solving this global parenting issue,” explained Lence.
“We tested 1,000 families over 10,000 miles and identified that 80dB, the sound equivalent of a vacuum cleaner, is the pitch most unbearable for parents,” added Fürst.
Developed in partnership with sound specialists CANTON, the speakers are engineered to continuously monitor, measure and react to the in-cabin child decibel level. Once activated, the speakers generate unique sound waves that intelligently block out bickering but still allow parents to hear essential road noises, such as emergency sirens.
“We know backseat bickering is a serious issue for our customers, the hotline to the Family Relations team is constantly ringing with parents at a loss of how to solve the problem,” said Lence.
“This is why we have spent thousands of hours coming up with this stress-busting solution. We’re the first manufacturer to offer an accessory this smart and we think it will change the lives of many parents throughout the UK, we certainly might see fewer grey hairs.”
The noise-cancelling headrests are the latest item in ŠKODA’s range of acclaimed accessories, which already include an inbuilt umbrella holder, integrated ice scraper and virtual boot pedal.
