Context
Launched in 2022, ACI Radio is the institutional broadcaster of the Automobile Club d’Italia, created to meet a growing need: the availability of a digital infrastructure capable of delivering authoritative, continuous, and accessible information on mobility amid profound technological and energy transformation. The increasing complexity of traffic flows, the ecological transition, vehicle electrification, and the digitalisation of public services require innovative tools to support citizens, public administrations, and operators. The station broadcasts certified content 24/7 on traffic, road conditions, weather, road safety, and mobility culture, seamlessly integrating the Luceverde infomobility services. The adoption of DAB+ technology represents an investment in digital infrastructure that is more sustainable than FM, featuring lower energy consumption and superior broadcasting quality. ACI Radio serves as an institutional platform supporting national and European policies on sustainable mobility, contributing to the dissemination of information aimed at enhancing safety, reducing environmental impact, and raising public awareness. Its multi-channel delivery model (DAB+, web, app, smart speakers) ensures an inclusive and accessible service. The application under the Investing in Infrastructure, Mobility and Energy category stems from ACI Radio’s role as a national digital infrastructure that strengthens the competitiveness of the mobility system, enhancing service quality, road safety, and informed public engagement.
Objectives
ACI Radio was established to address the increasing demand for qualified information regarding mobility, within a framework of technological, energy, and infrastructural transition that requires tools capable of providing guidance to both citizens and institutions. The project aims to achieve four key objectives. First, to promote safe, sustainable, and innovative mobility by disseminating educational content and awareness campaigns that foster responsible behaviour and support the evolution of transport systems. Second, to strengthen the institutional capacity of the Automobile Club d’Italia by providing it with a modern communication and advocacy platform capable of enhancing services, initiatives, and sporting and cultural activities, thereby contributing to the promotion of a culture of conscious mobility. Third, to guarantee accessibility and inclusion through a multi-channel presence (DAB+, web, app, smart speakers), ensuring a broad, free-of-charge, and accessible public service. Integration into infotainment systems (CarPlay and Android Auto) also allows information and services to be brought directly on board vehicles. Finally, to consolidate ACI’s role as the national infomobility hub by integrating the Luceverde experience and offering certified, timely, and reliable content. In summary, ACI Radio informs, educates, and supports the competitiveness of the mobility system, helping to improve road safety, quality of life, and public awareness.
Implementation
The implementation of ACI Radio is based on a dedicated organisational structure, with a professional editorial team and advanced digital studios that ensure high production standards and service continuity. The project is coordinated by ACI Mobility through an integrated governance model involving communications, information systems, and technical mobility departments, ensuring alignment with the strategies of the Automobile Club d’Italia. The infrastructure combines DAB+ broadcasting and webcasting, offering national coverage, energy efficiency, and multi-channel access. The programming – over 3200 hours of live broadcasting annually – integrates news, institutional, and entertainment content, enriched by thematic segments and on-demand services such as podcasts. ACI Radio is developed with the collaboration with internal and external stakeholders, including local Automobile Clubs, technology partners, automotive industry experts, public bodies, and mobility operators, to effectively address citizens’ needs. Integration with vehicle infotainment systems extends accessibility directly into daily travel contexts. To ensure economic sustainability, ACI Radio combines internal resources, partnerships, and sponsorship activities, while maintaining its institutional nature. Collaboration with national government communication campaigns strengthens its role as a public service, and the project constitutes a replicable digital infrastructure model for national mobility.