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Radio, Radio: 2017 Ford Escape, Fusion Among First to Receive Dual Receivers

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SYNC 3 Ford Day Classic FM Radio

Customers will appreciate longer, clearer FM radio listening thanks to Ford’s dual radio reception systems on the new 2017 Escape and Fusion–including one of the industry’s first applications of dual reception systems for available HD Radio

According to Nielsen’s Audio Today: Radio 2016 report, 93% of Americans still listen to the radio on a weekly basis, which is a higher percentage than those who use smartphones or televisions. That listening to the radio on the road is still such a quintessentially American thing is why Ford says it is putting dual FM radio receivers and other radio-related improvements in its 2017 Escape SUV and 2017 Fusion sedan.

According to Ford, 2017 Escape and Fusion models equipped with available Sony audio systems will implement secondary signal receivers to improve the quality of FM radio stations played through HD Radio. The second receiver will allow for stronger signals and less interference, which Ford says will come in handy in cities and mountainous areas in particular.

These vehicles will also utilize a specialized second antenna built into the heater grid in the vehicles’ rear window, as well as Automotive Audio Bus® (or A2B®) technology that cuts the weight of wiring while enhancing the quality of the audio produced by the Sony audio system.

“With dual antennas, the broadcast transitions seamlessly. No spits or wisps, and no hearing two radio stations at the same time,” said Andy Adrian, Ford antenna and reception engineer. “The system delivers the clean, high-quality sound you expect from a Ford vehicle.”

These new features will perfectly compliment other features available for both models that are focused on improving sound in the vehicle. With the 2017 Fusion, for example, the V6 Sport, Platinum, Hybrid, Energi and SE Luxury Package models all come standard with acoustic laminated glass that both boosts audio emitted from the radio and keeps out road noises. The Fusion Hybrid S and Hybrid SE are also receiving three more speakers to improve the effectiveness of Active Noise Control.

“These changes are the result of listening to feedback from dozens of listeners over hundreds of hours,” said Alan Norton, senior technical leader for Ford audio systems. “It’s all about attention to detail. By improving radio reception and taking other steps to improve sound quality and acoustics, we aim to give customers the consistent, enjoyable sound they deserve. In many cases, the best audio systems our customers have are in their vehicles. We don’t want them to settle for low sound quality.”