Sirius Satellite Radio Inc. will launch its backseat television service exclusively in several DaimlerChrysler cars and minivans later this year, the companies said on Thursday.

Sirius, which plans to acquire rival XM Satellite Radio Holdings Inc. in a deal that must first pass regulatory muster, said three live child-themed TV channels would be available in 2008 model year cars in the Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge lines. Sales of those cars will start later this year.

The satellite radio provider has been promising such a service since 2004, but at that time it said deals with manufacturers and content providers needed to be hammered out. Last November, Chief Executive Mel Karmazin said the service would launch in 2007.

The system will cost about $470, which includes the first year of service, when packaged with Chrysler’s rear seat entertainment system in new cars. Customers must subscribe to Sirius Satellite Radio.

After that first year, TV service will be $7 a month in addition to the $13 a month for Sirius satellite radio.

Channels on the service include Viacom Inc.’s Nickelodeon, Walt Disney Co.’s Disney Channel and Time Warner Inc.’s Cartoon Network.