US automakers could soon be forced to include AM radio for free

The House overwhelmingly approved legislation that would require new vehicles sold in the US to include AM radio at no extra cost. Supporters argue AM remains important for emergency alerts and rural communications, despite some automakers moving to phase it out.

The vote shows lawmakers are willing to intervene when connected-car upgrades threaten older but resilient public-safety infrastructure. If enacted, the mandate could slow automakers’ efforts to simplify dashboards and push drivers toward digital infotainment services.