![](https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/yIlWVobt-idQZHgitd2XeV5CvcM=/0x0:2040x1360/1200x628/filters:focal(1020x680:1021x681)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/22280369/sokane_210125_4386_1883.jpg)
AM radio is under the gun, with more and more automakers discontinuing its use, especially as the industry undergoes a rapid shift to electrification. Lawmakers and regulators are worried that the slow demise of AM radio could make it more difficult to broadcast emergency information during a natural disaster or other related events. But automakers are undeterred and seem determined to sweep AM radio into the dustbin of history.
The latest model to hit dealerships without the first-generation radio broadcast technology is the 2024 Ford Mustang, according to Ars Technica, citing Ford Authority. Indeed, Ford was one of eight companies to essentially declare AM radio to be an obsolete technology in their response to Senator Ed Markey’s (D-MA) request for information.
The latest model to hit dealerships without the first-generation radio broadcast technology is the 2024 Ford Mustang
Ford was joined by BMW, Mazda, Polestar, Rivian, Tesla, Volkswagen, and Volvo in staking out the position that AM radio is incompatible with EVs, citing electromagnetic interference from the powertrain. Indeed, Tesla made this same argument when it removed AM radio from its vehicles back in 2018.
According to a Vice article from 2016, the problem is when the interference gets picked up by the radio:
EVs are powered by a rechargeable battery, electric motor, and a frequency converter that controls how much power the car’s electrical motors put out by turning voltage on and off thousands of times a second, basically chopping up energy. This process causes electromagnetic interference that gets picked up by the radio.
Ford said [PDF] there were other technologies available, such as internet streaming, HD radio delivered on FM bands, or some apps that provide AM content, that will make up for the absence of AM radio in its vehicles.
Markey said that 10 automakers — Honda, Hyundai, Jaguar / Land Rover, Kia, Lucid, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Stellantis, Subaru, and Toyota — have said they have no plans to discontinue their use of AM radio. General Motors and Mercedes-Benz have not responded, relying instead on statements from the industry group Alliance for Automotive Innovation.
To be sure, none of these automakers went so far as to declare their long-term commitment to AM radio’s survival. Indeed, all signs point to AM’s waning relevance in the auto industry, which Markey argues would make it more difficult to convey important information to people during an emergency.
To be sure, none of these automakers went so far as to declare their long-term commitment to AM radio’s survival