Even though smartphones are pervasive, it's not a given for those looking at truly affordable/entry-level vehicles.

AM/FM radios should still be part of the minimum "tech stack" in modern cars.

The Drive: Dodge CEO Asks 'Do You Need a Radio' in 'Back-to-Basics' Quest for Entry-Level Cars

https://www.thedrive.com/news/dodge-ceo-asks-do-you-need-a-radio-in-back-to-basics-quest-for-entry-level-cars

Dodge CEO Asks ‘Do You Need a Radio’ in ‘Back-to-Basics’ Quest for Entry-Level Cars

Dodge CEO Matt McAlear stressed a "back-to-basics" approach to car making, challenging people to ask themselves what features they need from cheap cars.

The Drive
@qlp My 2023 #F150Lightning doesn't have an AM tuner...

@mWare I know some EVs opted out of having an AM radio, which became a bit of a hot topic, due to issues with interference, etc.

The 2026 Toyota/Subaru trio of twin EVs have AM and FM (plus satellite) radio.

@qlp

At this point, I'm also wondering how much longer we'll have AM and FM band broadcasting stations in the USA? I can't see billionaires continuing to invest in that tech.

"Provide a service for free to the lower 99%? Are you nuts? Advertising be damned, how do we also charge them for subscriptions?"

I'm old enough to remember when cars came with only AM radios — or none — and no seat belts.