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1/3 of new cars get DAB

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Time 12:31 pm, January 11, 2013

DAB RADIOS are now fitted to one third of new cars, according to new data.

The figures, released by Digital Radio UK, who look after the UK’s DAB frequencies, suggest that adoption of the new radio systems are on the rise.

In the fourth quarter of 2012, for example there as a 76 per cent year-on-year increase in the number of cars registered with a DAB radio fitted.


The increases come as more and more manufacturers begin to adopt the technology as standard. BMW recently announced that DAB would be standard on every car it sells, while even Ford and Vauxhall are making strides to include it on their models.

Adoption hasn’t quite spread to every conceivable trim level, however. The new Ford Fiesta includes DAB only on its most expensive ‘Titanium’ spec, for example, while Vauxhall Corsa buyers will miss out on anything below the ‘Energy’ special edition.

With the analogue radio signal likely to be turned off in the next few years, it’s increasingly important that makers make the move. After that, FM systems will simply become redundant.


‘Reaching one third of new cars with digital radio as standard is a major milestone and shows real momentum from the automotive industry in the drive to digital,’ commented Ford Ennals, Digital Radio UK’s CEO.

‘This is great news for motorists who want to listen to digital radio stations in their car, and good news for Government who are planning a decision on a radio switchover later in the year.’

Jon Reay's avatar

Staff Writer Jon is one of the Car Dealer team's newest members. You can also find him contributing to AOL Cars.



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