WorldDAB has launched at WorldDAB Automotive 2026 a major new international study. This has delivered compelling evidence that broadcast radio — with DAB+ as the established digital terrestrial broadcast radio platform — is essential, expected and embedded in the in-car experience, as the association has claimed in a statement.

Presented to senior automotive, broadcast and policy leaders at the annual event in Frankfurt, the findings look forward to underlining the continued importance of ensuring broadcast radio’s prominence and easy access in the dashboard as vehicles become increasingly connected.

Broadcast radio remains the first choice for drivers

The study shows that 83% of car buyers listen to radio in the car, making it the number one in-car audio source by a clear margin. Radio is also the most frequently used: half of all respondents said it is the audio they listen to most often, well ahead of streaming services (20%), personal music (12%), podcasts and audiobooks.

Daily listening patterns reinforce this dominance. 31% of car buyers listened to radio every day in the past week, compared with just 15% who listened daily to music on streaming platforms.

A ‘must-have’ feature in every new car

Even in a connected world, drivers still expect broadcast radio to be built into the dashboard. When asked which features are “must-haves” when buying a new car, 62% selected radio, placing it above built-in navigation, touchscreen displays and smartphone mirroring systems.

Broadcast radio is an essential part of the in-car experience, with 85% of in-car radio listeners saying they would “really miss having radio in my car”.

DAB+

The study also highlights the performance of DAB/DAB+. 95% of DAB+ listeners say they like using it, and 91% find it easy to access while driving. Listeners praise its audio quality, reliability, station choice and on-screen information.

Ease of use remains one of broadcast radio’s strongest advantages. The study found:

• 96% agree radio is easy to use.
• 87% say radio is always just one click away.
• 72% agree radio is easier to listen to than other audio sources.

Broadcast radio also plays a critical role in safety and emergency communication. 83% say radio is very important in times of disaster, and 52% say it is the first place they would go for information while driving. Two-thirds of respondents believe radio is safer to use than other audio sources.

Beyond information and entertainment, broadcast radio provides connection and company. 85% say radio keeps them up to date with the world, while 69% say it keeps them connected to their local area. Many respondents describe how radio provides companionship when driving, with one saying: “Using radio in the car makes driving more enjoyable. It gives me music, entertainment and company while I’m on the road”.

WorldDAB’s President, Jacqueline Bierhorst, shares: “This research gives a clear verdict from car buyers: broadcast radio belongs in cars. Drivers expect it, rely on it and value it — not only for entertainment, but also for trusted information, safety and connection. DAB+ is essential because it brings these strengths into the digital age: free-to-air, reliable, easy to access and designed for universal broadcast delivery”.

“As dashboards become more complex and connected, WorldDAB will continue to work with broadcasters, automotive partners and policymakers to ensure broadcast radio remains prominent, easy to access and available for all drivers”, she adds.

The research

The research, commissioned by WorldDAB and conducted by Fifty5Blue (formerly Kantar Media), is based on 8,000 online interviews across Australia, France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the UK. It surveyed adults who purchased or leased a vehicle in the past five years and who are familiar with modern in-car infotainment systems.

The major new study was unveiled at WorldDAB Automotive 2026 in Frankfurt, by Julie Soulsby, Director, Insight, and Phyllis Chen, Insight Manager of Fifty5Blue. The unique annual industry event brings together broadcasters and automotive manufacturers and is organised by WorldDAB – the global industry forum for DAB+ digital radio. The report is available to download from the organisation’s website.