Ford to Keep Controversial Item in Vehicles Despite Previous Plans to Remove It.

Ford Changes Course, Keeps AM Radios in Its Vehicles

Ford Motor Company has reversed its decision to eliminate AM radios from its vehicle line, according to CEO Jim Farley’s recent Twitter post. The company will now include the feature on all 2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles, citing the importance of AM broadcast radio as part of the emergency alert system. For Ford EV owners without AM broadcast capability, a software update will be offered.

After speaking with policy leaders about the importance of AM broadcast radio as a part of the emergency alert system, we’ve decided to include it on all 2024 @Ford & @LincolnMotorCo vehicles. For any owners of Ford EVs without AM broadcast capability, we’ll offer a software…

— Jim Farley (@jimfarley98) May 23, 2023

Earlier, Ford had announced that AM radio would be eliminated from most of its new car models beginning in 2024. The decision was based on the fact that most AM stations in the U.S. already offer mobile apps with internet streaming, digital, and satellite radio options. However, current and prospective Ford customers and other groups resisted the move, appealing to Congress to stop the industry from dropping AM radios.

A bipartisan group of lawmakers even proposed an “AM for Every Vehicle Act” that would mandate AM radios in new vehicles at no extra cost. They noted “AM’s historic role in transmitting vital information during emergencies, such as natural disasters, especially to rural areas.”

The Importance of AM Radio

Over 80 million people listen to AM radio each month in the U.S., citing data from the National Association of Broadcasters and Nielsen. In areas without reliable broadband or where FM signals falter, AM radio stands as a sturdy pillar of communication. It is a vibrant network that connects diverse communities across our nation.

While some analysts express skepticism over the necessity to keep installing AM in new autos, Ford’s decision to keep AM radios in its vehicles is a win for those who value the historic role of AM radio in transmitting vital information during emergencies.

Thank you to Ford’s product development and manufacturing teams for their quick response to make this change for their customers.

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