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New research presented at the WorldDAB Automotive 2026 conference in Frankfurt suggests that broadcast radio remains the most widely used audio source in cars.
The study, commissioned by WorldDAB and conducted by Fifty5Blue, surveyed 8,000 adults across Australia, France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the U.K. who had purchased or leased a vehicle within the past five years.
According to the findings, 83% of respondents listen to radio in the car, making it the leading in-car audio source. The study also found that 62% of car buyers consider radio a must-have feature when purchasing a new vehicle, while 85% of in-car radio listeners said they would miss having radio in their car.
WorldDAB says the research also highlights positive attitudes toward DAB+, with 95% of DAB+ listeners saying they like using the platform and 91% describing it as easy to access while driving.
Jacqueline Bierhorst, president of WorldDAB, said the findings show that drivers continue to value broadcast radio for entertainment, information and safety.
You can view or download research findings below.
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