Sirius Satellite Radio is trying to make family drives a little more entertaining, not through its audio variety but with video options.

DaimlerChrysler AG’s Chrysler Group announced last week that it will offer limited satellite TV service for its 2008 Dodge and Chrysler minivans as well as other models. Chrysler is teaming with Sirius to bring three channels—the very kid-friendly Nickelodeon, Disney Channel and Cartoon Network—to its new minivans, and the 2008 Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger, Dodge Magnum, Jeep Commander and Grand Cherokee.

The Sirius video stations will be in Chrysler exclusively through the 2008 model year, after which the satellite provider can offer it to other partners. The service will cost $470 and will be packaged with Chrysler’s rear seat entertainment system and Sirius Satellite Radio. The fee includes the first year of service, after which the TV channels will cost $7 per month, plus the satellite radio fee of $12.95 per month.

The amount of video channels is reportedly limited by bandwidth allocated to satellite radio, but greater variety will be explored for the future, according to Frank Klegon, executive vice president of product development for Chrysler.

Via: the Associated Press

Visit www.daimlerchrysler.com and www.sirius.com for more.

Arlen Schweiger - Managing editor of Electronic House Magazine

Arlen contributes product news items to electronichouse.com along with his role on the print publication. Got a tip? Send it along!