Digital radios 'not offered by 50% of manufacturers'
Wednesday 02 November 2011 | By Evolution InternetBack to Newsroom
Individuals leasing Mitsubishi L200 pickups may soon find they can no longer listen to their in-car radios as the government's digital switchover date moves closer.
Research carried out by Auto Express magazine revealed at least half of all vehicle manufacturers are not planning to offer the new technology in their models.
It was found that 60 per cent of cars registered this year have no optional extra for digital radio.
Some of the top makers to shun the devices include Nissan, Citroen, Hyundai and Fiat.
Auto Express news and features editor Julie Sinclair said: "If the government can't even persuade the motor industry to back this new technology, how is it going to convince cash-strapped motorists to get on board?"
Traditional analogue sets will cease working nationwide from 2017, with the date having been pushed back from 2015 as the Department for Culture, Media and Sport noted a slow take-up.
As part of the criteria for the switchover digital coverage must match the current FM reach across the UK.
