Microsoft teams with Ford/Mercury for Ford Sync in-car system

Ford Motor Company and Microsoft have announced the launch of a new factory-installed, in-car communications and entertainment system that is designed to change the way consumers use digital media portable music players and mobile phones in their vehicles. The New York Times is also reporting on this story.

Overall I think this is a great step for Microsoft. Move away from being considered just an OS and Office shop and create more innovative products. My only question... why Ford and Mercury. Will acceptance be high with this consumer set?

Since most of these electronics are geared towards the younger set and those with extra funds to burn, why not go after BMW or VW? I can't picture gramma buying this system for her Crown Vic. But perhaps families will see a need for this in their minivans and SUVs.

From the Microsoft release:

Sync offers consumers two ways to bring electronic devices into their Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles and operate them seamlessly through voice commands or steering wheel controls:

* Bluetooth, for wireless connection of phones and phones that play music.
* A USB 2.0 port for command and control and charging of digital media players -- including the Apple iPod and Microsoft Zune -- as well as PlaysForSure music devices and most USB media storage devices. Supported formats include MP3, AAC, WMA, WAV and PCM.