2018 Ford Expedition First to Be Offered with SlingPlayer
Ford revealed its 2018 Expedition last month at the Chicago Auto Show, announcing in the process that it would be available with a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot that would allow up to 10 devices to be connected at once. Building on that knowledge, Ford also revealed this week that the Expedition’s Wi-Fi hotspot will enable high-speed streaming of live television via SlingPlayer, a first for the automotive industry, via its available dual-headrest rear seat entertainment system.
This system, developed by VOXXHirschmann Corp., is dubbed EVO and features two eight-inch monitors in the headrests of the front seats that can be connected to various sources for viewing. One of these sources is the SlingPlayer, which will enable drivers with a SlingBox to stream cable or satellite TV on the go. Additional sources include DVD player, HDMI, USB, SD card, Miracast™, and the system’s SmartStream app.
SmartStream can also be used by third-row passengers with smartphones or tablets for the purposes of viewing the same content playing on the headrest monitors. The front-row passenger will be able to control what is being viewed in the back through Ford SYNC AppLink using the center stack touchscreen.
“This entertainment system creates an entirely new viewing experience in the vehicle,” said Craig Patterson, Ford Expedition brand marketing manager. “It brings the smart TV experience to Expedition. Together, they completely change the dynamic of a family road trip.”
The Expedition will also be offered with exclusive B&O PLAY Premium Audio System.
Ford also revealed that its 2018 EcoSport will not be offered with a CD player, instead coming with a horizontal storage bin for smart devices. The EcoSport will also be offered with built-in Wi-Fi and SYNC Connect with FordPass, as well as the B&O Play Premium Audio System.
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