Radio facing a ‘David and Goliath’ struggle for a place on the dashboard [Video]

The Chief Executive of the Independent Broadcasters of Ireland (IBI) has characterized the radio industry’s fight to keep traditional radio in vehicles as a “David and Goliath” struggle.

The statement comes amid efforts by some car manufacturers to replace radios with direct online access.

The Irish radio sector has strongly opposed these attempts and is lobbying at the highest European levels to ensure that all new car models retain radios, fearing a shift to digital models.

Earlier this year, the European Broadcasting Union warned that the move towards connected vehicles could marginalise traditional broadcast radio.

They emphasised that radio should remain easily accessible in cars, advocating for practical measures like a dedicated physical or virtual radio button.

The Union highlighted that radio is the most listened-to form of entertainment in many European countries and expressed readiness to collaborate with the automotive industry to meet audience demands.

Speaking on RTÉ’s Morning Ireland, IBI Chief Executive Michael Kellystressed the importance of keeping radio “at …