“We’re at an inflection point. HD Radio automotive offerings abound and are widely available for vehicles at all levels.”
That’s according to Ibiquity Digital President/CEO Robert Struble, noting the increased HD Radio product offerings among automakers, auto dealers and aftermarket retailers.
The gains come amid HD-R radios breaking the $100 price point last month. There are 1,763 stations broadcasting HD Radio right now, the great majority of them FMs; Ibiquity says there are 913 multicast stations.
Mercedes-Benz recently announced factory installs of HD Radio receivers on several 2009 model-year vehicles and Hyundai Motor America is offering HD-R equipment standard with its navigation-equipped 2009 Genesis models.
At the dealer level, Ford/Lincoln/Mercury has made it easier to upgrade to HD Radio with AAMP of America’s Peripheral product. It product enables the user the HD Radio tuner and an iPod from the factory radio.
Additionally, Peripheral said its Gateway and HD Radio tuners are available for installation on various models of Acura, Buick, Cadillac, Chevy, GMC, Honda, Hummer, Isuzu, Lexus, Oldsmobile, Pontiac, Saturn, Scion, Toyota and VW.