Some carmakers are ditching FM radios — and Rivian R2 fans aren't happy that they'll need a cellphone signal to listen to tunes in the wilderness
- The R2 model will receive radio through the iHeartRadio app
- Customers have pointed out potential issues with the cell signal
- More automakers are phasing out radio tuners in their vehicles
A number of automotive manufacturers have begun phasing out AM and FM radio tuners from their vehicles, instead relying on connected apps to tune into both digital radio and FM channels.
Tesla famously ditched FM and AM tuners in some of its new cars this year, while BMW, Volkswagen, and Mazda began removing AM radio tuners in the early 2020s, citing interference from electric powertrains.
It turns out Rivian, the maker of hardy, off-road electric vehicles, will join that growing list of manufacturers that don’t ship models with an AM or FM tuner, as eagle-eyed internet sleuths discovered that the latest R2 uses an iHeartRadio app for its radio-based music, news, and entertainment.
The news surfaced after an image...
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