In a surprising announcement, Ford has announced it will continue placing AM Radio units in its upcoming models.
Ford will add the AM radio option to the 2023 F-150 Lightning and Mustang Mach-E. Additionally, Ford will not remove AM radios from its upcoming 2024 models with internal combustion engines as previously planned.
“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 & Lincoln vehicles. For any owners of Ford EVs without AM broadcast capability, we’ll offer a software update,” Ford CEO Jim Farley wrote in a tweet.
“Customers can currently listen to AM radio content in a variety of ways in our vehicles –including via streaming – and we will continue to innovate to deliver even better in-vehicle entertainment and emergency notification options in the future. Thanks to our product development and manufacturing teams for their quick response to make this change for our customers.”
The company had previously announced it would not remove AM radios from its commercial fleets due to longstanding contract language.
The news was met with a positive reaction from NAB President and CEO Curtis LeGeyt.
“NAB commends Ford for committing to keep AM radio in their vehicles, which will keep Americans safe and informed, particularly in times of emergency. With tens of millions of listeners, AM radio continues to serve as a vital lifeline to the public and a critical source of community news and exchange of diverse ideas,” LeGeyt said.
“In light of Ford’s announcement, NAB urges other automakers who have removed AM radio from their vehicles to follow Ford’s lead and restore this technology in the interest of listeners and public safety.
“NAB thanks the numerous lawmakers who are leading the charge to keep AM radio in automobiles, particularly the supporters of the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act. Their bipartisan voices are helping to shine a light on the need to keep this critical service. Broadcasters will continue to support this major legislation to ensure consumer access to AM radio in all vehicles.”
