Sirius Satellite Radio and Chrysler Group announced last week that Chrysler would offer Sirius Backseat TV in its 2008 vehicle lineup. It becomes the first automaker to adopt the wireless video technology.
Sirius Backseat TV is targeted to families and will include TV programming from Nickelodeon, Disney Channel and Cartoon Network. The video service will be available in select 2008 model Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge vehicles, beginning with the 2008 Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan minivans, available later this year.
Sirius Backseat TV operates via in-vehicle satellite video receiver and two small roof-mounted antennas. The vehicle's second- and/or third-row video screens display the video programming. Channel name, program title and rating is broadcast and displayed on the screens.
Rear-seat passengers can access the video service while front-seat occupants listen to Sirius satellite radio channels. The system can be operated from either the rear-seat entertainment unit or the radio head unit. In addition, when the vehicle is in park mode, programming can be displayed on a screen for front-seat viewing.
The Backseat TV system is priced at $470, which includes the first year of service, when packaged with Chrysler Group's Rear Seat Entertainment System and Sirius satellite radio. After the first year, the service is available for $7 per month when packaged with satellite radio ($12.95 per month). Backseat TV will only be available to Sirius radio subscribers
