We previously reported that a group of bipartisan Congressional lawmakers sent a letter to several automakers urging them not to ditch the AM radio in future vehicles. Representative Bob Latta (R-Ohio) and Rep. Greg Pence (R-Ind.) sent a letter with 100 signatures to Ford, Volkswagen, BMW, Mazda, Volvo, Tesla, Polestar, Rivian, General Motors, and Mercedes-Benz. The letter argues that AM radio is an essential in-car feature despite the availability of other advanced technology.
“Despite new technologies, the elimination of AM radio from vehicles could still cause a serious communication issue during times of crisis, particularly in rural areas where broadband connectivity is unreliable. It is critical that automaker companies do not deprive the American people of AM radio, as it is a free and potentially life-saving source during emergencies,” said Rep. Pence.