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Mercedes-Benz To Offer Factory Installed HD Radio™ Technology On Select Model Year 2009 Vehicles

Montvale, NJ – Mercedes-Benz announced today that it will offer HD Radio technology on several of its MY 2009 vehicles. The free digital AM/FM radio service is part of Mercedes-Benz’s completely new generation of entertainment systems developed for its M-, R-, GL-, G-Class SUVs and E-Class vehicles.

“HD Radio technology serves to enhance our digital information and entertainment system today and has the potential to significantly expand the options available to consumers in the future,” said Rasheq Zarif, Assistant Product Manager - Technology Planning at Mercedes-Benz USA. “Mercedes-Benz is committed to providing our customers with the latest, next-generation in-vehicle entertainment technology.”

HD Radio technology is the most significant advance in radio broadcasting since the advent of FM. Available to more than 83 percent of Americans, more than 1,700 HD Radio stations are already on the air with over 800 additional new multicast channels (HD2/HD3) that are exclusive to HD Radio listeners. These subscription-free channels feature digitally delivered new music and fresh formats, showcasing jazz, “Tween,” local bands, world music, Motorsports, Bluegrass niche content and much more.

All MY 2009 Mercedes-Benz SUV's and E-Class models featuring a new head unit incorporating a large 6.5-inch color display screen with a standard in-dash, six-disc CD/DVD changer and a Bluetooth interface that allows a phone (even in a pocket or purse) to be operated through the car’s audio system. The new head unit can be equipped with an optional iPod/MP3 media interface, Sirius satellite radio, HD Radio technology, and an advanced voice control system for audio, navigation and phone systems. The sound system can play tracks stored on a data CD, DVD or memory card. The new system can also display maps and directions for the optional GPS navigation system, which can display Sirius real-time traffic information and Zagat restaurant ratings.

For a complete, current list of HD Radio stations across the U.S., please visit HD Digital Radio. “HD Radio™” is a proprietary trademark of iBiquity Digital Corporation.

Copyright © 2008, Mercedes-Benz USA



Mercedes-Benz To Offer Factory Installed HD Radio On Select 2009 Model Year Vehicles | eMercedesBenz - The Unofficial Mercedes-Benz Weblog


M

About time. Better late than never I guess.

How do the SUV's and E get it, but the S and CL don't?

Perhaps those buyers more than likely opt for satellite radio whereas the cheaper cars have a lower frequency of subscribers. HD radio is satellites only real competitor - that I know of anyway.