Ford Motor Co. has become the first U.S. automaker to offer HD Radio across multiple product lines.
The dealer-installed high-definition radio option is now available nationwide on nearly all 2008 model year Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles. Additionally, HD Digital Radio can be installed on many earlier models from 2005, 2006 and 2007.
Kim Irwin, vehicle personalization and accessories manager for Ford’s Customer Service Division, stated: “We’re helping our customers stay connected by supporting the features and functions they want in their vehicles. The dramatically improved audio, text and data features of HD Digital Radio — along with its hundreds of new radio stations — create a compelling combination at the right price.”
More than 1,500 radio stations in the U.S. broadcast in HD Radio, with more than 600 stations also airing multicasts, according to Ibiquity Digital and the HD Digital Radio Alliance.
Beginning immediately, HD Digital Radio will be available as a dealer-installed option on new, pre-owned and currently owned vehicles. Price points will vary by dealership.
Ford said HD Radio offers car dealers upgrade customer entertainment systems in a unique way.
To support the launch, Ford, Lincoln and Mercury dealers will benefit from a “multi-million-dollar, 13-week,” spot campaign in partnership with the HD Digital Radio Alliance. The commercials will air in 100 markets on some 700 radio stations beginning today, Sept. 26.
“In all of our discussions with automakers, Ford has consistently demonstrated both the will and the resolve to be industry leaders in this arena,” said Alliance President/CEO Peter Ferrara.
