Lawmakers look to require AM radio in new cars despite automakers' pushback

A bipartisan push in Congress would require automakers to include AM radio in all new vehicles at no extra cost under the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act, which passed the House and has a companion measure with Senate support but no scheduled floor vote. The bill directs the Department of Transportation to write regulations to ensure AM remains available and bars separate charges for AM access. The debate intensified after several electric-vehicle makers, including Tesla, Rivian and Volvo, removed or limited AM receivers citing interference from EV electrical systems. The auto-industry trade group contends analog AM isn’t necessary for vehicle safety and opposes a federal mandate.

Broadcasters and local media leaders argue AM is critical for public safety and local information, since it works without subscriptions, data plans or reliable internet during emergencies; Chicago is highlighted as a major market with roughly 8 million listeners. Academics and station operators emphasize AM’s role in media diversity and community voice, noting many immigrant- and language-focused outlets rely on the band and that AM remains a durable platform for unscripted, live local conversation that feeds broader digital ecosystems. Supporters frame preservation as an access and public-safety issue rather than nostalgia.