ARE WE THERE YET?
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.
Mazda launches Quarrel Cancel™ technology, the newest addition to the brand’s range of accessories for their Hybrid SUV range. Coming in the third quarter of 2025, a noise-cancelling headrest - 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 Mazda Hybrid SUVs, the noise-cancelling headrests are activated at the touch of a button via the Mazda 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 Mazda's Chief of Family Relations, Professor Aoi Tanaka and Special Projects leader, Dr Haruto Ito. “To create this technology, we recruited a ‘Scream Team’ – a group of volunteers dedicated to solving this global parenting issue,” explained Tanaka.
“We tested 2,500 families over 1,000km and identified that 80dB, the sound equivalent of a vacuum cleaner, is the pitch most unbearable for parents,” added Ito.
Developed in partnership with sound specialists BOSE, 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 Mazda Customer Care team is constantly ringing with parents at a loss of how to solve the problem,” said Ito.
“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, we certainly might see fewer grey hairs.”
The noise-cancelling headrests are the latest item in Mazda's range of acclaimed, forward-thinking accessories, which are designed in parallel with the vehicle to create seamless integration, enhancing Mazda's human-centric design approach.
Can you hear that?
Bliss... it's going to be worth the wait.
