WorldDAB Study Finds Radio Remains Essential in the Car

RADIO ONLINE | Friday, June 12, 2026 | 2:55pm CT

WorldDAB

A new international study commissioned by WorldDAB has found that broadcast radio remains the dominant audio choice for drivers, with the vast majority of car buyers viewing radio as an essential feature that should remain prominent and easy to access in modern vehicles.

The research, unveiled at WorldDAB Automotive 2026 in Frankfurt, surveyed 8,000 vehicle buyers and lessees across Australia, France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom. The findings show that 83% of respondents listen to radio in the car, making it the most-used in-car audio source by a wide margin.

According to the study, 50% of respondents identified radio as the audio source they use most often while driving, compared with 20% for streaming music services, 12% for personal music libraries, 4% for podcasts and 3% for audiobooks. Additionally, 31% said they listened to radio every day during the previous week, more than double the 15% who reported daily use of streaming music services.

Radio also ranked as the most important feature in a new vehicle. When asked to identify "must-have" features, 62% selected broadcast radio, placing it ahead of built-in navigation, touchscreen displays, smartphone integration systems and internet connectivity. Eighty-five percent said they would "really miss having radio" in their vehicle.

The study found that ease of use remains one of radio's strongest advantages. Among in-car radio listeners, 96% agreed that radio is easy to use, 87% said it is always "just one click away," and 72% said it is easier to access than other audio sources.

Safety and reliability also emerged as key benefits. Eighty-three percent of respondents said radio is important during emergencies, while 52% said it would be their first source of information during a driving-related emergency. Two-thirds agreed that radio is safer to use while driving than other audio options.

The report highlighted strong consumer support for DAB digital radio. Among DAB+ users, 95% said they like using the platform and 91% said it is easy to access while driving. Respondents cited audio quality, station variety, reliability and enhanced display information among its key strengths.

WorldDAB President Jacqueline Bierhorst said the findings send a clear message to automakers and policymakers. "This research gives a clear verdict from car buyers: broadcast radio belongs in cars," Bierhorst said. "Drivers expect it, rely on it and value it - not only for entertainment, but also for trusted information, safety and connection."

The study was conducted by research firm Fifty5Blue and presented during WorldDAB Automotive 2026, an annual gathering of broadcasters, automakers and technology providers focused on the future of in-car radio.