iBiquity says more automakers to install HD radio, make the feature standard in more models

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iBiquity says more automakers to offer HD radio

NEW YORK — IBiquity Digital Corp., a developer of high-definition radio, said Thursday that seven automakers have agreed to offer the technology in upcoming vehicles.

HD Radio allows AM and FM stations to broadcast their programs digitally instead of transmitting via analog signals. The technology allows for clearer reception and for more information, including song titles and artists, to be displayed.

IBiquity said automakers offering HD Radio in upcoming vehicles include: BMW AG, Ford Motor Co., Hyundai Corp., Kia Motors Corp., Ford’s Lincoln, Toyota Motor Corp.’s Scion and Volvo, which is being acquired by Chinese automaker Zhejiang Geely Holding Group from Ford.

Ford will install HD radio in its Taurus, Econoline, Escape, F-Series, Flex and Fusion vehicles. It’s already installed on the 2011 Mustang and Super Duty models. Ford’s Lincoln division will feature HD radio in its MKX, MKS, MKT and Navigator vehicles.

BMW’s entire 2011 5-series fleet carries HD radio as a standard feature. Other BMW vehicles with the technology include the 7 Series, 6 Series, 3 Series, 1 Series, X5, X6, X3, Z4 Roadster and 5 Series Gran Turismo.

Hyundai’s HD radio feature is standard as well on Equus, its high-end model. Other vehicles offering HD radio as an option include the Genesis sedan and 2011 Sonata.

Kia will install HD radio in several 2011 vehicles and Toyota Motor Corp.’s Scion will include it in its 2011 iQ and tC vehicles.

Volvo will make HD radio standard on the new 2011 S60. Its other models — C30, C70, S40, TC, S80, V50, V70 — already offer the technology as a standard feature.

IBiquity also said Audi AG, Daimler AG’s Mercedes, Ford’s Mercury, MINI USA, Volkswagen AG, Tata Motors Ltd.’s Jaguar and Land Rover, and BMW’s Rolls-Royce plan to make HD radio a standard on certain models.