Mercedes-Benz launches 24-hour digital radio at Frankfurt show
Mercedes-Benz unveiled its own round-the-clock digital radio station at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show, offering editorial content and music accessible in-car and online.
Mercedes-Benz used the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show to launch its own digital radio station, making it the first car manufacturer to offer a 24-hour editorial audio service dedicated to the brand. The new Mercedes-Benz Radio is available in English and provides a mix of brand content, music, and programming from selected partners.
The service can be accessed in several ways: through an app for tablets and smartphones, a web player for home and mobile use, and directly in vehicles equipped with the latest generation of the Comand Online multimedia system. The first model to offer in-car access is the new Mercedes-Benz GLA, which also premiered at Frankfurt. Further models featuring the updated Comand Online system will follow as the technology rolls out across the range.
Editorial content, not advertising
Mercedes-Benz Radio is positioned as an editorial platform, not a promotional channel. The company stated that the station will broadcast content related to the brand and its products in an editorial format, setting it apart from traditional advertising or corporate audio feeds. The programming is designed to appeal particularly to younger and more digitally engaged audiences, including those drawn to the brand’s expanding compact model line-up.
The station’s schedule includes a variety of music and brand-related stories, alongside content created in partnership with selected external contributors. All content is presented in English, reflecting Mercedes-Benz’s aim to reach a global audience. The company emphasised that the radio service is part of a broader strategy to expand its digital channels and connect with the so-called ‘always-on’ generation.
Integration with new models and digital platforms
The integration of Mercedes-Benz Radio into the Comand Online system means that drivers of compatible vehicles can access the station directly from the dashboard, without needing a separate device. This approach is intended to make the service a natural extension of the in-car experience, in line with the increasing importance of connected services in new vehicles. The GLA is the first to feature this integration, with more models expected to follow as Mercedes-Benz updates its multimedia hardware across the range.
- Available in the new Mercedes-Benz GLA from launch
- Accessible via app for iOS and Android devices
- Web player option for use at home or on the move
- Planned rollout to further models with Comand Online
The launch at Frankfurt came as part of a broader presentation for Mercedes-Benz, which also included new model debuts such as the GLA and the S500 Plug-in Hybrid. The move into digital radio reflects the brand’s ongoing investment in technology and digital engagement, aiming to reinforce its connection with modern and tech-savvy customers.
For more on Mercedes-Benz’s Frankfurt premieres, see the S500 Plug-in Hybrid debutand the S-Class Coupe Concept shown live.
