Figures from the SMMT show that the fitment of digital radios as original equipment in new cars is up by 184 percent.
compared to the same period in 2010, the first nine months of 2011 have seen a meteoric rise in the numbers of cars being sold with digital radios fitted as standard.
The SMMT now believes the drive to digital radio being a standard on new vehicles is well under way. The news comes as the BBC has announced that it will build digital coverage of its national radio stations to 97%, including better coverage on motorways.
SMMT chief executive Paul Everitt said: “Significant progress has been made in developing the content and coverage of digital radio, driving consumer demand in the new car market. The massive increase we’ve seen this year puts us well on the way towards delivering our commitment to fit all new cars with digital radio by the end of 2013.”
For the aftermarket the rise in digital radio sales could see retailers and stockists having to look into the new technology. Already there are numerous aftermarket products available for motorists wanting DAB radios. With more new cars than ever being sold with the equipment as standard, the DAB boom looks set to continue.
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