The removal of AM radio receivers from many new electric vehicles (EVs) and some gasoline-powered cars has prompted a response from the United States Congress. Lawmakers are moving to mandate the inclusion of AM radio in new vehicles, citing its importance for emergency alerts. This effort comes despite evolving communication technologies and a shift in consumer listening habits.
Key Takeaways
- Congress is pushing to require AM radio in new vehicles.
- EV powertrains cause interference with AM frequencies.
- Emergency alerts are a primary reason for congressional interest.
- Consumer demand for AM radio is low, especially among younger buyers.
- Modern alert systems reduce reliance on AM radio.
AM Radio Disappearing from New Vehicles
Many new electric vehicles are now manufactured without AM radio receivers. This trend is also seen in some internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, but it is more common in EVs. The main reason for this omission in electric cars is electronic interference. EV powertrains generate significant electronic noise. AM frequencies are particularly sensitive to this interference, leading to distorted audio quality.
Stephanie Brinley, Associate Director at S&P AutoIntelligence, explained the core issue. She stated,
"While automakers want to ditch AM frequency from EVs because of interference distorting quality, regulators use the AM frequency for emergency alerts, and the AM broadcast does not require a paid subscription for a driver to hear it."This highlights the conflict between automotive design and regulatory requirements.
Regulatory Concerns and Emergency Alerts
The primary driver behind the congressional push to preserve AM radio is its role in the emergency broadcast system. AM radio has historically served as a vital channel for public safety announcements during crises. It provides a free, widely accessible platform for information dissemination, especially when other communication methods might fail.
Fact Check
AM radio does not require a paid subscription to access. This makes it a free public resource for emergency information.
This issue is not new. Brinley noted, "This has been an ongoing issue for several years; it is less about consumer interest in AM radio." The debate centers more on public safety infrastructure than on user preference. The government's interest in maintaining AM radio availability stems from its perceived reliability for critical alerts.
Evolving Alert Systems and Modern Technology
While AM radio has been crucial for emergency alerts, its importance has decreased with the rise of mobile phones and advanced alert systems. The Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS) Modernization Act of 2015 marked a significant shift. This act aimed to update and diversify how emergency information is delivered to the public.
Background on IPAWS
The Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS) is FEMA's national system for sending alerts and warnings. It allows federal, state, local, tribal, and territorial authorities to send critical public safety information through various communication channels.
The 2015 act directed FEMA to establish common alerting protocols. It emphasized adaptability based on geographic location and multiple communication technologies. This includes capabilities to alert individuals with disabilities, access and functional needs, or limited English proficiency. The system also requires resilience, security, and the ability to withstand external attacks. Public education efforts were also mandated to raise awareness about IPAWS.
Key Requirements of IPAWS
- Future Technologies: The system must adapt to and incorporate new technologies for direct public communication.
- Broad Reach: It aims to provide alerts to the largest possible portion of the affected population.
- Remote Area Access: Improved ability for remote areas to receive alerts is a key goal.
- Partnerships: It promotes local and regional public and private partnerships for community preparedness.
- Redundancy: The system must offer redundant alert mechanisms to ensure delivery.
- Privacy Protection: Individual privacy is a protected element of the system.
These provisions suggest a reduced reliance on a single technology like AM radio. Modern alert systems are designed to be more comprehensive and technologically advanced. However, the full implementation and widespread adoption of these new systems are still ongoing. This lag creates a perceived gap that some lawmakers believe AM radio continues to fill.
Congressional Efforts and Industry Response
Despite the advancements in emergency alert technology, Congress has spent years on preliminary steps to mandate AM radio in new vehicles. The House of Representatives recently passed its version of a bill out of committee with "overwhelming" support, according to Axios. This indicates strong bipartisan interest in the measure.
The move to regulate the auto industry in this manner is notable, especially from a Republican-controlled Congress. This suggests a perceived strong public interest or a significant regulatory concern driving the legislation. However, industry analysts question consumer demand for AM radio.
"It is highly unlikely a consumer would forego an EV because the AM band isn’t there," Brinley stated. "But that misses the point of why US lawmakers are interested in maintaining the availability of the frequency even in EVs."This emphasizes that the legislative focus is on public safety, not consumer preference.
Consumer Preferences and Demographics
Robby DeGraff, Manager of Product and Consumer Insights at AutoPacific, echoed similar sentiments. "We do not have any specific figures or numbers regarding consumer demand for AM radio," DeGraff said. "That being said, I don’t believe if an EV especially (or any vehicle regardless of powertrain) is not equipped with AM radio that that is a deal-breaker for a consumer."
DeGraff further explained that most modern vehicle owners use alternative audio sources. "While I understand the draw some may have to AM radio, and perhaps its need in an emergency broadcast system, most of today’s vehicle shoppers and owners are streaming content through their phone, tuning into satellite radio, or toggling through FM stations," he added.
Listening Habits
A majority of new car buyers prefer streaming services, satellite radio, or FM stations over AM radio for entertainment and news.
The demographic profile of EV buyers also plays a role. Electrified vehicle adoption tends to skew younger and more tech-savvy. This group generally has less overlap with traditional AM radio listeners. While older demographics, such as Baby Boomers and some Gen Xers, may listen to AM radio routinely, its absence is unlikely to deter them from purchasing a new vehicle.
"Of course, there are demographics, especially Baby Boomer and some Gen Xers, who do listen to AM radio on a routine basis," DeGraff acknowledged. "I don’t think the absence of it is enough to steer someone away." This suggests that while a segment of the population uses AM radio, it is not a critical feature for the broader market, particularly for new vehicle purchases.
Future Outlook for AM Radio in Vehicles
The legislative effort underscores a tension between traditional emergency communication methods and modern technological advancements. While new alert systems are designed to be more effective and widespread, the transition period creates complexities. Congress's push reflects a desire to maintain a known, albeit aging, safety net.
Automakers face challenges in integrating AM radio into EVs due to technical interference. Mandating its inclusion could increase vehicle complexity or cost. The debate highlights the broader issue of how technology evolves faster than regulatory frameworks, particularly in areas concerning public safety and infrastructure.
Ultimately, the outcome of the congressional initiative will determine whether AM radio remains a standard feature in new vehicles. This decision will balance public safety concerns, technological feasibility, and shifting consumer preferences in the automotive market.