Following Apple’s announcement on Thursday that Ford, GM and Mazda will be offering iPod integration on their 2007 automobile models, Ford announced that it is rushing iPod connectivity into its new models, expecting audio player demand among its customers to double within the next five years.
Beginning this summer, half of the automobiles produced under the Ford, Lincoln and Mercury banners will feature auxiliary audio input jacks. Automobiles that will get the jack include the Ford Edge, Explorer, Expedition, Mustang, Fusion, Sport Trac, Ranger, F-150, Mercury Milan, Mountaineer, Lincoln MXK, MXZ, Navigator and Mark LT.
What’s more, early next year, Ford and Lincoln Mercury dealers will offer TripTunes Advanced — an audio system designed specifically to integrate the iPod, complete with steering wheel and radio controls and battery recharging.
In related news, Ford indicated that in 2007, they’re doubling the number of models available with a navigation system and quadrupling the number with Sirius satellite radio.