IN A breakthrough to rival the introduction of gigantic cupholders, car-maker Chrysler is to launch its first model that features three channels of satellite television programming.

Is it just me, or is the American automobile industry modelling car interiors these days on the standard family lounge room? I’m not saying this is a bad thing, but it does make me wonder how long it will be before someone puts a Laz-E-Boy up-front (because that’s the day I’ll be looking to buy a Dodge Grand Caravan).

Chrysler announced it had joined with Sirius Satellite Radio to provide Sirius BackSeat TV for its 2008 Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan minivans, as well as some Jeep models.

Programming is a little limited and aimed squarely at stopping kids from asking “Are we there yet?” Three channels of ‘family’ entertainment from Nickelodeon, Disney Channel and Cartoon Network will be available later this year.

“Chrysler Group is committed to offering innovative technologies that are right for our customers,” Chrysler group’s executive vice-president for product development Frank Klegon said.

It’s possible that more channels will be added to the back seat TV service later – and maybe even a full satellite service – but bandwidth limitations meant the companies was presently restricted to three.

The Sirius Backseat TV system operates via an in-vehicle satellite video receiver and two small roof-mounted antennas. Programming is displayed on the vehicle's second- and/or third-row video screens, and channel name, program title and rating will be broadcast and displayed on the screen.

The front seat can listen to radio programming while those in the back watch TV or DVD. Each seat can watch different programming, so it’s actually better than you standard family lounge room.