Volvo will have digital radio fitted as standard in new models from the end of June, it was announced at an industry conference in London today.
Speaking today at the Intellect industry Future of Digital Entertainment conference, Ford Ennals, CEO of Digital Radio UK, welcomed the announcement from Volvo, which follows other big-name brands in the UK including Audi, BMW, Ford, MINI and Volkswagen that have also committed to fitting digital radio as standard. Nick Connor, Managing Director of Volvo Car UK, said that digital radio “immeasurably enhances the in-car listening experience” and that it is a fantastic addition to their cars.
According to the latest CAP/SMMT data issued in March, 36.4% of new vehicles registered have digital radio fitted as standard. The majority of cars are expected to have digital radio as standard by the end of 2013.
The newly-enhanced Volvo range for 2014 includes the new S60, V60, XC60, V70, XC70 and S80 models, which feature revised styling, enhanced equipment and lower emissions. The full Volvo range will include digital radio as standard from the end of June, except the XC90 which will follow next year.
For motorists there is more good news as digital radio coverage is expanded across the UK with a priority on providing robust coverage on motorways and major road networks. As part of plans set out in the Digital Radio Action Plan for a future digital radio switchover, an agreement between broadcasters and government has led to the launch of a series of new digital transmitters which will boost local digital radio coverage to over 70%.
Wendy Williamson, SMMT Development Manager said, “The motor industry continues to invest in radio’s digital future by providing digital radio in new cars. Volvo is a welcome addition to the list of manufacturers offering it as standard.”
Nick Connor said, “Digital radio immeasurably enhances the in-car listening experience and ensures that your favourite songs can be heard in perfect clarity on your radio station of choice. It’s a fantastic addition to our cars that we’re sure our customers will love.”
Ford Ennals said, “Volvo is an iconic brand and it is great news that Volvo is fitting digital radio in all their new cars, giving listeners the full choice of BBC and commercial radio stations they love while on the move.”
