New York — Chrysler will be the first car manufacturer to offer Sirius’ satellite TV, starting in the 2008 model year, the companies said today.
The new Sirius Backseat TV will offer programming from Nickelodeon, Disney Channel and Cartoon Network over three channels in select 2008 Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge vehicles starting at the end of this year.
Sirius said it is possible other car makers will offer Sirius Backseat TV in the future. In addition, the company is expected to offer Sirius TV through the retail aftermarket, possibly later this year.
Using two small roof-mounted antennas, the Sirius/Chrysler system provides a satellite radio receiver and displays video over one or two screens at a suggested retail of $470, which includes the first year of service. The user must also buy a Chrysler entertainment system package that includes dual DVD players with a front seat screen, a cooled beverage storage bin, heat and cooled cup holder and other features.
Under the system adults may listen to Sirius radio in the front seat while children watch TV in the rear simultaneously. They may also watch Sirius TV on the front screen when the car is in park.
The cost of service after the first year is $7 per month when packaged with a $12.95 standard Sirius subscription.
The system will first be offered later this year on the 2008 Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan minivans, followed by the Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger, Dodge Magnum, Jeep Commander and Jeep Grand Cherokee.
Shows available on the service will include Nickelodeon’s “SpongeBob SquarePants,” Disney Channel’s “Hannah Montana” and Cartoon Network’s “Foster’s Home for Imaginary Friends.”
