In the United States, momentum is growing to require automakers to include AM radio as a standard feature in all new vehicles. The value of AM radio as a tool for public safety and as an emergency communication infrastructure during disasters is being rediscovered, with discussions regarding potential legislative changes currently underway in Congress and other bodies.
In recent years, as the shift toward electric vehicles (EVs) has progressed, an increasing number of models have dropped AM radio reception capabilities due to the difficulty of noise mitigation and technical costs. However, in extreme situations where the internet and satellite communications are disrupted, AM radio continues to function as an exceptionally robust and reliable communication network. Its reliability as a means of gathering information during emergencies is once again drawing significant attention.
If the bill currently under discussion is passed, automakers are expected to be required to integrate AM radio functionality as a standard feature across all vehicles without placing the financial burden on consumers. This goes beyond a mere regulatory specification change and could significantly impact design standards and cost strategies within the automotive industry. Moving forward, close attention will be paid to how the legislative deliberation process shapes a major turning point for what is considered standard automotive equipment.