Chrysler will offer TV

Firm, Sirius plan limited satellite service in some '08 models

March 30, 2007|Associated Press

DETROIT -- Coming soon to a minivan near you: satellite television.

DaimlerChrysler AG's Chrysler Group yesterday revealed limited satellite TV service for its 2008 Dodge and Chrysler minivans and several other models, continuing its plan to turn the family cruiser into a living room on wheels.

Chrysler, which invented the minivan, is teaming with Sirius Satellite Radio Inc. to bring three channels -- Nickelodeon, Disney Channel, and Cartoon Network -- to the next generation of minivans, and the 2008 Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger, Dodge Magnum, Jeep Commander and Grand Cherokee.

Chrysler said it has the channels exclusively through the 2008 model year, after which Sirius can offer it to other partners.

The feature comes with a price tag, though. It costs $470 and will be packaged with Chrysler's rear seat entertainment system and Sirius Satellite Radio. The cost 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.

It's possible that more channels and even full satellite service could become available, but for now, it's limited by bandwidth allocated to satellite radio, said Frank Klegon, executive vice president of product development for Chrysler.

Sirius, he said, has figured out how to send a limited TV signal within the airwaves allocated to satellite radio. "I think there's certainly some potential in the future for expansion of additional channels," he said.

Klegon also said satellite TV is the latest step in a continuation of information technology moving from home to vehicle.

Sirius' satellite radio rival, XM, is exploring backseat video with its automotive partners but has no disclosure plans, spokesman Chance Patterson said.