AM Radio’s Future in Cars
If you’ve bought a new car after 2014, you might’ve noticed that there’s no AM radio button on your dashboard anymore. Some vehicles even lack an FM button. Instead, technologies like streaming apps, particularly TuneIn, seem to have taken over. TuneIn, for instance, boasts access to around 100,000 radio stations, podcasts, live sports, news, and audiobooks. This shift has led some car manufacturers to think that AM and FM radio are unnecessary now, according to a magazine report.
Many automakers are jumping on this trend, with brands like General Motors, Lucid, Rivian, Land Rover, Volvo, and Mercedes-Benz ditching traditional radio. Others like BMW, Mazda, and Volkswagen are also in the mix.
Congress Advocates for AM Radio
Not everyone is on board with the transition away from traditional radio. Congress has introduced bills, HR 979 and S. 315, aiming to support digital platforms while retaining broadcast radio. There are over 4,000 stations that still operate on the AM band, which has been a staple for more than a century. This medium doesn’t just deliver music and news; it plays a crucial role in national and local emergency alert systems. Since many listen to the radio in their cars—and it’s free—Congress views AM radio as vital for public safety, especially during emergencies.
Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) has voiced his concerns about eliminating AM stations from cars. He mentioned that AM radio waves can penetrate solid objects better than FM signals, allowing services like FEMA’s National Public Alert System to function effectively through these broadcasts. He believes automakers should ensure that all vehicles include AM radio, particularly in scenarios where the internet might fail or cell towers could go down amidst disasters.
The Benefits of Radio
Organizations like the National Religious Broadcasting Station emphasize that while many streaming services require subscriptions, AM radio provides immediate news, weather updates, community announcements, sports coverage, and more—all at no cost. Even during power outages when cell towers or the internet might be down, in-car radios and battery-operated devices can still receive broadcasts.
Moreover, the NRB argues that opting for streaming over radio could lead to information manipulation, similar to what happens with social media algorithms and corporate interests—even if it’s a subtle shift. The push to keep AM radio in all vehicles has garnered support from over 315 House members and 61 senators, indicating a significant bipartisan initiative in Washington right now.
