Derby-based fleet management firm Fleet Evolution says that many vehicles supplied today will still be in use when the analogue radio signal is switched off.

Managing director Andrew Leech said: ‘The digital revolution won’t be forced upon motorists until 2015 at the very earliest, but many vehicles ordered today will still be in use when the old signal is switched off. Unlike home television, a simple £40 box won’t get drivers over this obstacle. Most stereos are built-in to sophisticated entertainment units and costs of replacing these run into the thousands.’ 

He added: 'This could be as big an impact as buying a leaded vehicle a few years before fuel outlets stopped stocking leaded fuel. We’ve recently had to replace a customer’s stereo unit on an inbuilt dash and the costs were huge. Companies buying vehicles now, which will remain with them for five years or more, need to take action. We expect that resale values where DAB is not installed will plummet once a firm deadline is announced.'

As a result, the company says is offering free DAB radios with any vehicle that it supplies to Midlands-based businesses.