Parliamentary legislation now requires all new cars sold in the UK to be fitted with a DAB-compatible radio.
From 21 December 2020, where a new car has a radio fitted, it must be able to receive digital audio broadcasting.
The provision is found in The Road Vehicles (Approval) Regulations 2020, which took effect from 1 September 2020.
This ensures the UK will match the European Electronic Communications Code Directive, introduced by the European Union.
The requirement for standard DAB in new cars was uncovered by Andrew Clews of The Motoring Podcast.
The advantages of DAB for all
According to the WorldDAB industry forum, 95 percent of new cars sold in the UK already come with a DAB radio.
Major manufacturers such as BMW, Ford, and Volkswagen began the digital rollout more than a decade ago. It leaves very few new cars on sale without a DAB radio.
Today, there are more than 485 DAB stations available in the UK, with 97.3 percent of the population covered by its service.
In-car listening now accounts for 44.5 percent of digital radio ‘reach’ across the country.
Tuned in for the future
Where a car comes without any radio fitted at all, the new legislation will (sensibly) not compel manufacturers to install a DAB receiver.
The rules apply to all ‘Category M’ motor vehicles. Minibuses, coaches, ambulances, and motorhomes are therefore included in the requirements.
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