Romain Laleix, a member of the French regulatory authority Arcom, has expressed grave concerns about the potential removal of car radios from new vehicles, signaling a troubling trend for the radio industry. His remarks, published in Les Échos on February 13, 2026, highlight that this development could lead to a 'marginalization of the media', specifically radio, and potentially result in its disappearance. Laleix points out that recent releases, like the Tesla Model Y and Model 3, do not include AM or FM radios, which exemplifies a growing shift among automakers that may endanger traditional broadcasting.

Laleix advocates for the continued relevance of radio, emphasizing that DAB+ technology, akin to digital television for radio, still enables listeners to access stations if their vehicles are equipped accordingly. The situation he describes reflects broader concerns about the impacts on media diversity and accessibility as technology evolves. Without in-car radios, Laleix argues that the cultural connection many have with radio could be jeopardized, leading to a reduction in broadcasting coverage and listener engagement across various demographics.

This warning raises essential questions about the future of radio as a platform and the responsibilities of automotive manufacturers. As vehicles become increasingly equipped with digital technology, the challenge for radio will be maintaining its presence and influence in an era defined by streaming and on-demand content. Regulatory discussions around this topic may become critical as stakeholders seek to balance innovation with the preservation of significant cultural mediums like radio.