New Vehicles Increasingly Omit Traditional Car Radios
As touchscreens replace dials, buyers should check if their next car maintains a receiver for emergency broadcasts.
Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Car Types
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Automotive manufacturers are increasingly omitting traditional radio hardware in favor of touchscreen dashboard systems, particularly in new electric vehicle models. While live radio remains the primary source for in-car audio, international lawmakers are considering mandates to ensure these receivers persist for public safety.
Why it matters
Campaigners are pushing to preserve car radios as a critical communication channel for emergency alerts during disasters or cyberattacks. This debate follows a 2025 regional power cut in Europe that disrupted digital infrastructure, highlighting risks when relying solely on connected-car technology.
Live radio listening in cars has grown by more than 50% over the last 20 years, currently accounting for 71% of all in-car audio engagement. While 98% of vehicles are expected to have a DAB receiver by 2035, the current removal of hardware in some new models lacks a universal regulatory requirement.
The players
Crossley
A historic manufacturer that pioneered the integration of factory-fitted radios in vehicles in 1933.
The details
Some manufacturers are phasing out physical radio receivers in favor of integrated touchscreen interfaces that may prioritize internet-streamed content. These digital systems rely on cellular or satellite data connections, which can become unreachable during massive telecommunications or electrical grid failures. Advocacy groups argue that traditional broadcast radio remains a vital, low-power safety tool that functions independently of data networks during large-scale emergencies.
Timeline
1933: Crossley introduced the first factory-fitted car radio.
2025: A massive power cut across Spain, Portugal, and Southern France disrupted transport systems.
End of 2026: The United Kingdom will submit its digital radio review to ministers.
The Home Front
The debate over dashboard hardware reflects an ongoing tension between integrated digital user interfaces and the need for resilient, analog-reliant infrastructure. This shift follows the 2025 European power cut, which exposed the vulnerabilities of digital-only connectivity in transit and emergency response.
If you are shopping for a new vehicle, confirm whether your preferred model includes a dedicated radio tuner or relies exclusively on apps for audio. For your safety, ensure you have a battery-operated or hand-crank emergency radio at home to access public information during widespread power outages.
The takeaway
Reliable access to live radio remains a cornerstone of public safety during large-scale infrastructure failures. When evaluating a new car purchase, prioritize models that offer physical radio controls to ensure you can receive emergency broadcasts even when internet connectivity is unavailable.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest developments in vehicle technology by visiting Car Types.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Mirror.
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Should governments mandate that all new cars must include traditional radio receivers?
