The latest research by WorldDMB has revealed the growth of DAB digital radio adoption internationally and shows the commitment by the automotive and broadcasting industries to provide better in-car listening.
The research covers Australia, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Switzerland and the UK
Patrick Hannon, President of WorldDMB said “Our aim with this research is to demonstrate clearly that DAB digital radio is the platform of the future in Europe. With the first countries moving to Digital Switchover, and motorists driving between these markets, it is becoming increasingly important for car manufacturers to include digital radio as standard.”
New cars sold with digital radio
Digital radio is fast becoming a standard automotive feature in the most developed European digital radio markets. In the UK and Norway, over 60% of new cars are now sold with DAB radios (up from less than 5% four years ago) – and Switzerland follows closely with 45%.
Policy commitment to digital radio
Norway and Switzerland are the likely to be the first countries in the world to set firm dates for Digital Switchover (DSO). Norway has achieved the criteria for DSO in 2017 and awaits Government confirmation of this date. In Switzerland, DSO is planned for 2020-24 – with final approval expected later this year. In the UK, Government policy is focused on a digital future for radio; and in Germany, the ARD has confirmed its long term commitment to DAB+.
Digital radio household penetration is on the rise
Digital radio adoption is growing strongly in key markets – in Norway 53% of households have digital radio; in the UK 49%, in Denmark 45% and in Switzerland 43%. In Germany receiver sales are growing rapidly – rising 63% year on year in Q4 2014.
DAB/DAB+ coverage of major roads
1st level road coverage in Switzerland, Norway, Denmark and Netherlands exceeds 90% – with Switzerland now achieving 100% coverage. In Germany, the national multiplex alone provides 75% road coverage – with additional coverage provided by regional ARD networks. In Italy coverage of major roads has already reached 65%.
