Ford to make HD Radio OEM in ‘09

Ford announced at CES it has expanded its HD Radio commitment and is now offering the technology as standard or optional equipment on Ford, Lincoln and Mercury products beginning in calendar year 2009. The company previously announced its relationship with HD Radio in the fall as a dealer-installed option. HD Radio receivers are currently offered as a dealer-installed option.

Beginning in 2009, HD Radio technology will join other factory-installed technologies – including SYNC and the company’s next-generation of navigation with SIRIUS Travel Link – offered in Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles.  HD Radio will be additional source of source of info and entertainment that drivers can choose, particularly for local and community information not available through other sources.

Other carmakers that have announced their intentions to back HD Radio include Volvo, BMW, Jaguar, MINI, and Hyundai.