AM/FM radio remains the dominant source of in-car audio in the U.S., capturing 56% of total listening time across all formats, according to Edison Research’s Q2 2025 Share of Ear study. That figure towers above ad-free SiriusXM at 13% and ad-free Spotify at just 6%. For ad-supported listening specifically, AM/FM claims an overwhelming 85% share, reinforcing its unmatched reach for advertisers.
Even in electric vehicles, where some manufacturers like Tesla have eliminated AM tuners, traditional radio leads. Among Tesla drivers, AM/FM accounts for 51% of in-car listening, well ahead of podcasts at 12% and ad-free SiriusXM at 10%. When isolating ad-supported content, 74% of Tesla drivers’ listening still goes to AM/FM, followed by podcasts at 17%.
The preference for AM/FM is even stronger among owners of more traditional car brands. Chevrolet drivers allocate 64% of their audio time to AM/FM, followed by Honda at 62%, Subaru at 60%, Toyota at 56%, and Ford at 55%. Luxury car brands including BMW, Audi, and Lexus also show over-the-air radio as the leading in-car audio choice, despite advanced infotainment systems.
The study highlights a post-pandemic rebound in in-car AM/FM consumption, with 50% of all radio listening now taking place in vehicles—back to pre-2020 levels, up from a pandemic low of 40%.
For automakers, the findings offer strategic implications. Design teams are urged to retain traditional radio capabilities in future models, while marketing teams are reminded of AM/FM’s powerful reach among drivers who are attentive and engaged.
Full analysis is available from the Cumulus Media/Westwood One Audio Active Group.