The US will force the automobile industry to install an AM radio in every vehicle

Amid growing controversy, the debate over the inclusion of AM radios in vehicles has reached a new chapter in the US Congress. A law called the “AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act” is close to being approved, drawing fierce opposition from the tech and auto industries.

The measure, proposed by Senators Edward Markey and Ted Cruz, has significant bipartisan support in both houses of Congress. With the support of 60 senators, the bill appears on track for final approval.

The primary purpose of this legislation was to ensure that all new vehicles sold in the United States were equipped with AM radios. At no additional cost to the consumer.

The impetus behind this legislation comes from maintaining access to emergency information, as AM radio plays a vital role in disseminating alerts at critical times. According to data from the National Association of Broadcasters, About 82 million people still listen to AM radio, and its importance is especially noticeable in crisis situations.

However, the auto industry has expressed strong objections to the initiative. Some manufacturers such as BMW, Ford, Tesla and Volkswagen have eliminated the AM radio option in some of their models.Citing issues like electromagnetic interference in electric vehicles.

This decision has raised concerns about the feasibility and effectiveness of adding AM radios to new vehicles, especially in the context of advances toward modern and digital technologies.

Despite criticism and opposition from the industry, Lawmakers defending the law argue that AM radio remains an essential tool for millions of people across the country.Especially in emergencies.

Senators like Cruz and Markey stress the need to ensure this important technology is not pushed aside in favor of more modern options. They highlight the important role it plays in providing local news, sports and updates.

After learning that the bill has reached the necessary 60 votes in the Senate, all seems to be on target for its final passage, overcoming potential legislative hurdles. This bipartisan majority reflects widespread recognition of the importance of AM radioEspecially in emergencies and for rural sectors.

The proposed legislation would require AM radios to be included in all new vehicles and establish penalties for manufacturers who fail to comply with the regulation. This has caused further concern in the automotive industry. It is feared that these measures will affect the performance and cost of vehicles.

In response to these concerns, Senator Markey said the legislation was not intended to favor one industry over another, but to protect and Access to information in the context of climate changes that may increase the frequency and severity of emergencies.

On the other hand, some critics have suggested that legislative pressure could encourage the auto industry to reconsider its decision to exclude AM radio from its vehicles. While some manufacturers, such as Ford, have begun issuing software updates to reintroduce AM radio, others have remained steadfast in their stance.

As debate continues in Congress, the bill is expected to go through several stages before becoming law. However, its progress so far indicates a strong push to add AM radios to vehicles, sparking a strong struggle between the balance of tradition and innovation in the automotive industry.