In the context of the European Commission’s proposed Digital Networks Act and the revision of the European Electronic Communications Code, a group of Belgian broadcast organizations has called on EU institutions to require FM and DAB+ receivers in all new vehicles sold across the bloc.
The coalition includes maRadio.be, Digitale Radio Vlaanderen and French-speaking local radio associations CraXX and Radio Z. Together, they argue that current legislation allows manufacturers to omit terrestrial radio receivers entirely, provided digital radio services remain accessible via IP-based systems.
Frédéric Gérand, president of maRadio.be, said, “The European Electronic Communications Code — adopted in 2018 and still in effect today — stipulated that radio had to be digital in all new vehicles starting in December 2020, provided the vehicle was equipped with a radio receiver. But it did not require a radio receiver. And what was bound to happen, happened: Some car manufacturers, most often for economic reasons, considered that allowing access to digital radio via the internet complied with the European directive.”
Limiting universal access
The groups warn that the increasing presence of vehicles without built-in radio receivers — relying instead on internet connectivity — risks limiting universal access to information and weakening media pluralism across Europe. This is particularly relevant for international audiences, as the EU’s regulatory framework often sets broader precedents for automotive and media standards beyond the region.
Gérand added, “That’s why our appeal stipulates that terrestrial receivers are essential: Hertzian broadcast networks are based on powerful infrastructures, allowing them to operate in situations where internet networks fail.”
According to maRadio.be, radio remains a primary source of in-car audio consumption in Belgium. Gérand said, “Radio is also a key element in mastering crisis situations and providing mass communication and information serving the public interest. According to recent data (CIM Audiotime Belgium, 2026), radio accounted for 95% of audio consumption in cars, of which 83% via FM and DAB+.”
The organizations argue that a pan-European requirement for terrestrial radio receivers would support media pluralism, cultural diversity and access to independent editorial content. They also describe the measure as technologically neutral, stating it would not prevent innovation while providing regulatory consistency for manufacturers operating across EU markets.
The coalition calls on EU lawmakers to ensure that future legislation maintains universal access to radio within the region’s media and communications framework.
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