Tesla is expanding its radio-free strategy for the Model 3, with the Australian-spec base model now losing FM radio as the automaker continues to reduce costs on its more affordable electric vehicle.
Tesla Removes FM Radio From More Model 3s
In the past, listening to the radio while driving was a standard way to play music or follow the news, with some drivers even memorizing the frequencies of their favorite stations. Modern in-car technology has changed that, allowing passengers to connect smartphones and access the media they specifically want.
Tesla has taken that shift further by dropping conventional radio from some versions of the Model 3. In the U.S., the move became a cost-cutting measure for the affordable Model 3 launched in October 2025.
AM radio is traditionally omitted from some EVs because electrical components can interfere with AM reception. FM generally has a shorter range but offers better audio quality and remains available in most EVs.
The U.S.-spec Model 3 Standard is an exception, with FM radio removed from the vehicle. The model is about $5,500 cheaper than the Premium trim.
FM radio remains available in some European-market Teslas, depending on the market and configuration. According to Drive, however, the base Model 3 in Australia is now losing FM radio as well.
Australian Model 3 Loses FM Radio
The Australian-spec Model 3 RWD starts at A$45,900, or about $31,800 at current exchange rates. That makes it A$9,000, approximately $6,250, cheaper than the Model 3 Premium RWD, which retains FM and DAB+ digital radio.
Tesla still offers the TuneIn app for internet radio streaming. However, the service depends on an internet connection rather than conventional radio frequencies.
The change reflects how radio has become another area where automakers can pursue cost reductions. A 2023 study found that addressing AM interference in EVs can add around $50 to $70 per vehicle because of measures such as shielding and filtering required to prevent electrical components from interfering with radio reception.
There is no reported roadmap showing where Tesla will remove FM radio next. However, the feature’s disappearance from additional markets suggests that the radio-less Model 3 is gradually expanding its reach.
Affordability Becomes a Bigger EV Focus
In the U.S., the Model 3 Standard launched without FM radio after the end of the federal tax credit, which provided eligible EV buyers with up to $7,500.
Since then, U.S. EV sales have remained well below year-ago levels, highlighting the need for greater affordability. Automakers are taking different approaches, although many are focusing on all-new models with more attainable price tags.
Ford developed a sub-$30,000 electric pickup truck called the Fathom, due in 2027. Slate Auto is also offering a $24,950 EV truck, which would have been even less expensive if the former $7,500 federal credit were still available and the truck qualified.
That reflects the current state of the U.S. EV market. There have been some signs of recovery, although hybrids continue to gain ground as buyers seek more affordable and fuel-efficient alternatives.
