XM Satellite Radio announced Oct. 13 that American Honda Motor would install more than 550,000 of its 2006 vehicles with XM receivers. Select Honda and Acura 2006 models, including Accord, Accord Hybrid, Pilot, Odyssey, Element and Ridgeline, will now include factory-installed XM, joining the Acura RL, Acura TL, Acura TSX and Acura MDX models.

In addition, the Satellite Industry Association (SIA) announced Oct. 13 XM has joined the association as an associate member. SIA Executive Director David Cavossa welcomed the new member saying in a statement, “we are proud that XM has joined SIA – their participation will expand our focus to include the consumer satellite radio sector of the telecom industry.”

Bill Bailey, XM senior vice president for government affairs stated, “As one of the great satellite success stories of the decade, we look forward to participating in SIA’s efforts to develop industry-wide positions on issues affecting the entire commercial satellite industry.”

As an associate member of SIA, will bring a perspective into the broad spectrum of SIA working groups covering regulatory, trade, homeland security, government services, market access, export controls and legislative issues. Participation in these working groups provides members with the ability to craft industry-wide positions on issues that are important to the economic and strategic success of satellite companies in the marketplace.