We Are Broadcasters
National Association of Broadcasters
#Radio100 Moment 79: First American Car Radio Manufactured (1930)
1930

Moment 79: First American Car Radio Manufactured

The first commercial in-car radio was developed by Paul and Joseph Galvin in 1930. Paul Galvin wanted a memorable brand name for the new car radio, so he coined the term Motorola – an amalgamation of the words motor vehicle and Victrola. The radio debuted at the Radio Manufacturers Show in Atlantic City in June of 1930, where Galvin received enough orders to begin production.







November 2, 2020 marks the 100th anniversary of the first commercial radio broadcast. To celebrate this special anniversary, we’re shining a spotlight on 100 key moments in radio's history.

We hope you’ll join us in celebrating your favorite radio memories throughout 2020. Use the hashtag #Radio100 across social media to share these moments with the world. Here’s to 100 wonderful years of radio, and to at least 100 more!


View All Moments »