Will turning on the radio to listen to the news or music via AM radio soon be a thing of the past? Perhaps, according to the dozens of car manufacturers (BMW, Ford, Volkswagen, etc.) that have decided to remove this long-wave technology from their electric vehicles.
In question, the interference between AM frequencies and electric motors, which would cause parasitic noise and a weakening of the signals. But for some US politicians, this represents a real security risk in an emergency.
Because AM radio, in addition to its playful aspect, is above all a fundamental means for authorities to communicate with users during extreme events, such as natural disasters. And according to the American Union of Broadcasting Companies, AM radio reaches 92% of the American population. An essential way to communicate with everyone.
Not always internet access
And to make the case for this change, some automakers say the government needs to change its emergency alert system to make more use of new technologies used by consumers, such as Bluetooth or digital. A justification that is not one according to Ed Markey.
The manufacturers, however, said they would keep their AM radio system, albeit with some adjustments, like Stellantis, parent company of Chrysler and Jeep. In fact, the manufacturer has decided to use shielded cables and connectors to reduce interference, keeping motors and radio components away.
little worried france
If these risks can worry drivers on the other side of the Atlantic, in France, the system is however different. The end of AM radio and long waves was effectively recorded on December 31. But in vehicles, the use of AM radio has been largely superseded by FM or digital. And in case of an emergency that requires a national alert message, today France has many broadcast channels besides AM radio.
In fact, since June 2022, the FR-Alert alert system has been installed throughout the national territory, which allows mobile phones to be notified in real time of an imminent or current danger. The tool is accompanied by older channels, such as alert sirens, but also messages through France Télévisions or Radio France. The social networks of the different ministries or institutions can also allow the massive dissemination of warning messages.
Source: BFM TV
