Ford Debuts 2018 Model Without CD Player

Ford Expedition interior. Photo: Ford

On Feb. 28, Ford announced the EcoSport models—debuting in the US in 2018—will come without a CD player in lieu of streaming and subscription music compatibility.

Citing Nielsen’s 2016 Mid-Year U.S. Music Report of falling CD sales and increase in popularity of streaming and subscription services among younger consumers, Ford’s SUV group marketing manager, Michael O’Brien, noted the manufacturer is constantly looking at ways to be more efficient with space. Ford’s announcement went on to note IHS Automotive projects that by 2021, 46 percent of vehicles sold in North America will not have a CD player.

Additionally, the 2018 Ford Expedition—hitting showrooms later this year—will offer live streaming cable and satellite TV just in the back seats via SlingPlayer, even TV shows and live sporting events streamed from a home cable or satellite system. The SUV will also include Wi-Fi hotspot, capable of supporting 10 devices up to 50 feet away from the vehicle.

Although the DVD players the SUV offers are capable of playing audio CDs, the revised Expedition will also include gamer compatibility hookups HDMI, USB and SD cards. Ford will be capable of integrating Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ capability in addition to SiriusXM™ radio.