At a recent economic forum in Qatar, Elon Musk outlined plans for Tesla that include significant changes to its upcoming vehicle models. Starting in 2026, the Standard trims of the Model 3 and Model Y will reportedly omit traditional AM and FM radio capabilities, opting to rely entirely on streaming services and Bluetooth audio. This decision positions Tesla as the first major automaker to eliminate terrestrial radio from its standard offerings, according to reports from RadioInk.
The move has sparked considerable debate, particularly in light of ongoing discussions about the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act. Lawmakers are advocating for legislation that would mandate the inclusion of AM radio in all new vehicles, emphasizing the importance of reliable emergency communication. Critics, including a spokesperson for the National Association of Broadcasters, have expressed concerns that removing local radio access prioritizes profits over public safety. “Free, local radio is not a luxury. It is a necessity – especially in times of emergency,” the spokesperson stated. They cited a recent widespread internet outage as a prime example of why keeping AM and FM radio in vehicles is essential.
Tesla’s decision appears to affect its lower-cost models. According to MotorTrend, vehicles produced from around 2020 and earlier typically included a traditional radio tuner. In contrast, the newer Standard trims, including the anticipated 2026 Model 3 and Model Y, will lack this feature. Customers who purchase these models will need to rely on streaming services or paired smartphone audio for their in-car entertainment.
Reports indicate that while there were expectations for a less powerful radio option, the complete removal of terrestrial radio capabilities was unexpected. Justin Banner, a journalist at MotorTrend, remarked on this development, noting the potential impact on consumers who may prefer traditional radio access.
Tesla has not provided additional comments regarding this change, raising questions about its implications for users. The features for these models were announced on October 7, 2023, with the Model 3 priced around $38,630, making it the most affordable option in Tesla’s 2026 lineup. The higher-end Model S and Model X models will continue to offer “premium connectivity” at delivery.
In a broader context, support for the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act has gained momentum, with over 340 members of Congress endorsing the bipartisan bill. If passed, this legislation would require the Department of Transportation to ensure that AM radio capabilities are standard in all new passenger vehicles. Manufacturers failing to comply would need to inform consumers through clear labeling and could not charge extra for AM radio access.
Despite the rise of digital audio platforms, traditional AM/FM radio remains popular. According to Edison Research, AM/FM radio constitutes over one-third of daily audio consumption among individuals aged 13 and older. The majority of this listening—31 percentage points—comes from over-the-air signals, underscoring the ongoing relevance of traditional radio in the digital age.
As Tesla moves forward with its plans, the debate surrounding the accessibility of AM radio in vehicles continues, reflecting broader concerns about communication reliability and consumer preferences.
