Satellite Radio News (2.2.04)

The following is a summary of today's satellite radio headlines:

XM Satellite Radio Launches 100 Percent Commercial-Free Music Lineup (XM Satellite Radio, 2.2.04) Press release notes that XM Satellite Radio today launches its new, 100% commercial-free music programming lineup. "In 2003, XM established itself as one of the fastest growing entertainment media ever by adding more than one million subscribers," said Hugh Panero, President and CEO of XM Satellite Radio. "Our 2004 commercial-free music lineup will make XM's critically acclaimed programming even more appealing to consumers coast-to-coast." All XM music channels now broadcast without commercial interruption (previously, half of XM's music channels were commercial-free). Both the New York Times and Fortune magazine recently compared XM to HBO, television's critically-acclaimed, commercial free, original programming leader. New channel additions to XM's music program lineup for 2004 include, Highway 16 (XM16), today's top country hits; Fungus (XM53), everything that is punk, including underground, ska, surf and industrial; The Blend (XM25), the best adult contemporary music; and Lucy (XM54), the biggest, most influential songs in alternative history. (Read more)

General Motors Expands XM Satellite Radio Availability to More Than 50 Models for 2005 Model Year (General Motors, 2.2.04) Press release notes that GM announced at the National Automobile Dealer Association Conference that it will be increasing XM Satellite Radio availability to more than 50 cars and trucks in the 2005 model year -- continuing one of the fastest-ever technology rollouts in company history. XM Radio will be factory-installed on twelve additional 2005 GM vehicles available this year. Vehicles include the Buick Terraza and LaCrosse, Cadillac STS, Chevy Cobalt, Uplander, Corvette and Equinox, Hummer H2 and H2 SUT, Pontiac G6 and Montana SV6, and Saturn Relay. (Read more)