When It Comes To In-Car AM/FM Listening, Chevrolet Leads The Way.

Edison Research’s “Share of Ear” study for Q1 2026 shows that when drivers see the U.S.A. in their Chevrolet, they’re more likely to be hearing AM/FM radio.

The automaker that according to Reynolds and Reynolds ranks ninth of 39 brands with a loyalty rate of 46% — while S&P Mobility shows parent company General Motors on top for multi-brand loyalty with 68% — has drivers with 90% of ad-supported audio time in the car spent with AM/FM radio. According to Edison, that’s higher than all other major auto brands, and higher than AM/FM’s 83% share of in-car ad-supported audio time spent among persons 18+ overall.

“AM/FM radio is the exclusive way to reach Chevrolet drivers during their commute and while they’re running errands,” Cumulus Media/Westwood One Audio Active Group Chief Insights Officer Pierre Bouvard says in the latest of Westwood One’s blog series focused on automakers. “U.S. government studies report most commutes are a solo affair. In-car, Chevy drivers cannot be reached by social media, online video, or any digital platform.”

When Edison asks Chevy drivers what they listen to most in all locations — including home, work, vehicle, and some other place — AM/FM radio still stands out, with 72% of ad-supported audio time. 

Chevrolet drivers’ share of ad-supported audio time spent with AM/FM radio in all locations is also far ahead of 18+ overall, at 72% vs. 64%, while second-place podcasts stand at 11% for Chevy drivers compared to 21% overall. That’s a 13% larger share for AM/FM vs. the U.S. average.

“While 46% of Chevrolet purchases come from former owners, the rest of its sales come from competitor owners,” Bouvard says. “With an 83% share of total in-car ad-supported audio, AM/FM radio is the perfect way to reach and conquest Chevrolet auto brand competitive drivers.”