SMMT calls for DAB push
August 4th, 2010 by Richard Aucock
GREATER awareness of DAB digital radio is being called for by one leading trade association.
The SMMT is urging digital radio broadcasters to improve their digital offerings and boost consumer awareness of the benefits of DAB radio.
The move comes after JATO released figures revealing that the number of cars fitted with digital radio as standard or as an optional extra has increased.
However, while figures suggest that the number of cars fitted with digital systems has doubled since 2007, such cars only represent a small percentage of new car sales.
SMMT’s chief executive Paul Everitt said: ‘While these new figures show that the uptake of digital radio is gathering pace and motorists are increasingly opting for new cars fitted with the technology, it is clear that there is still a lot of work to do to ensure the 2013 listening criterion is met.
‘More needs to be done to increase public awareness through extensive information campaigns and this will rely on the support of broadcasters in addressing the public’s key concerns about digital radio.’
As the 2013 deadline for all new cars to be fitted as standard with digital radios draws near, SMMT reckons motorists need reassurance of sufficient geographical reach before the Government’s 2015 switchover takes place.
The Society also urges a clarification from broadcasters how digital systems will cope with traffic information.
By James Batchelor
Tags: accessories, aftersales, dab, digital radio, SMMT