WASHINGTON D.C. – Ford has reversed course and will now include AM radio in all its 2024 Ford and Lincoln models. This announcement came after a bipartisan group of federal lawmakers introduced a bill called the “AM for Every Vehicle Act,” which required the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to include AM broadcast capability in all new vehicles at no extra cost.
The company had initially removed AM radio from its 2023 Mustang Mach-e and F-150 Lightning electric pickups due to low customer usage and electrical interference issues. However, Ford will offer a software update to restore the capability for owners of those vehicles who wish to listen to AM radio.
Ford’s decision to remove AM radio led to criticism from lawmakers, who pointed out the importance of the service during emergencies, particularly in rural areas. Current usage is low, but AM radio plays a crucial role in the Emergency Alert System and provides free, potentially life-saving information during natural disasters. Even though carmakers argue that internet radio can be an adequate alternative, traditional AM broadcasting remains essential for emergency communications.
Moreover, Republican Representatives Bob Latta and Greg Pence warned that Ford’s removal of the capability en masse could create serious communication issues, especially in rural areas without reliable broadband connectivity. They argued that AM radio is essential to America’s emergency communications infrastructure.
The Alliance for Automotive Innovation, a trade group representing major automakers, criticized the AM for Every Vehicle Act, arguing that the mandate is unnecessary as drivers can receive emergency alerts across other communication modes available in vehicles today. Ford’s U-turn is not a surprise as policy makers highlighted the importance of AM radio, despite anecdotal evidence that AM radio waves sometimes interfere with electric vehicle motors.
In his written statement, Senator Ed Markey said that Ford’s decision was overdue but criticized other automakers for removing the feature. Ford, BMW, and Tesla are among the carmakers that have stopped putting AM radio in new vehicles due to added costs and weight.
Although internet radio may eventually replace traditional broadcasting, it is not yet capable of providing emergency services as efficiently and cheaply as AM radio. As such, the federal government should ensure that AM radio continues to be available to the American public as a critical part of the nation’s emergency communications infrastructure.
In conclusion, Ford’s reintroduction of AM radio is a welcome development that underscores the importance of traditional radio broadcasting, especially in emergency situations. It is also a reminder of the critical role that lawmakers play in protecting national infrastructure, and the importance of balancing commercial interests with public safety concerns.
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