Ford makes MP3 jack standard

Taking a cue from a J.D. Power and Associates study that found more than half of today's drivers want MP3 player integration in their cars, Ford announced today that it would make auxiliary audio input jacks standard on its 2007 Edge, Explorer, Expedition, Mustang, Fusion, Sport Trac, Ranger, and F-150. The auxiliary jacks will also be standard on the 2007 Mercury Milan and Mountaineer, along with the 2007 Lincoln MKX, MKZ, Navigator, and Mark LT.

iPod users can opt for a dealer-installed kit from Ford called TripTunes, which offers real integration between iPods and the car's stereo. TripTunes keeps the iPod charged and lets the driver select songs from the car stereo interface. TripTunes will be available early next year.