The 1931 Studebaker and the Beginning of In-Car Entertainment

In 1931, Studebaker introduced a feature that quietly anticipated the future of driving. While car radios were still rare and expensive accessories, the 1931 Studebaker was designed with wiring already in place to make radio installation easier. This forward-thinking design showed how automakers were beginning to recognize that drivers wanted more than transportation—they wanted entertainment. In this video, we examine the 1931 Studebaker, the technology behind its radio-ready design, and how this feature reflected the early evolution of in-car entertainment.

Published

March 6, 2026

Written by

Rick DeBruhl