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2008 Chicago Auto Show : Acura and XM Announce Acura RL to Offer XM NavWeather


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Ground-Breaking, Real-Time, Weather Tracking Service for GPS Navigation Unveiled in 2009 Acura RL at 2008 Chicago Auto Show

CHICAGO, Feb. 6 -- Acura and XM announced today that the 2009 Acura RL will offer XM NavWeather(TM) featuring Threat Matrix(TM) technology as a part of its AcuraLink(R) service. The new Acura RL was unveiled today at the 2008 Chicago Auto Show and will be on display in the Acura booth. Acura is XM's first automotive partner to debut the XM NavWeather service.

2009 Acura RL drivers will be able to experience real-time, personalized weather tracking service directly through the in-dash navigation system. XM NavWeather utilizes exclusive "Threat Matrix" technology to track and provide drivers immediate alerts on developing weather threats, such as hail, floods, tornado and storm warnings. To help inform RL drivers of weather conditions at a glance, the easily understood icons are integrated into the luxury sedan's large map display.

XM NavWeather transmits detailed nationwide weather information for more than 20 different weather conditions, scaled and customized for the driver's specific route and displayed on the vehicle's navigation screen. XM NavWeather also provides multi-day forecasts based on weather monitoring stations across the U.S.

XM NavWeather was developed with Baron Services and utilizes Baron's exclusive Threat Matrix technology. Baron Services is also XM's weather partner for its award-winning XM WX Satellite Weather, a trusted information source for professional pilots and mariners. XM NavWeather builds upon the success of this professional grade service by providing a "driver friendly" interpretation of the dynamic weather data direct to the vehicle's navigation screen.

"Acura was the first automotive partner to debut our award-winning real- time XM NavTraffic service, which makes it fitting that they are first to offer XM NavWeather," said Steve Cook, executive vice president, Automotive, XM Satellite Radio. "Drivers will soon find the convenience of both services impossible to live without."

"Acura is a leader in developing the latest in customer relevant technologies that advance the driving experience," said Dick Colliver, executive vice president, Acura sales. "The real-time weather system featured on the new 2009 Acura RL further connects the driver to the world around them, allowing them to get where they need to go more quickly, safely and efficiently."

"Drivers don't have time to scrutinize every bit of weather data, so we've done all the analysis before it reaches their vehicles," said Robert O. Baron, President and CEO of Baron Services. "This streamlined, driver-centric philosophy helps drivers stay informed about perilous road and weather conditions, while being able to focus on safely reaching their destinations."

XM NavTraffic, powered by NAVTEQ Traffic, is the nation's leading real- time traffic service that offers the most comprehensive information and coast- to-coast updates every minute, ensuring that the driver has the latest and most detailed information at his or her fingertips. XM NavTraffic is now available in 80 major North American markets.

In addition to the Acura RL display, the XM NavWeather service will be demonstrated in the XM Infotainment Vehicle during press days, February 6-7. The Infotainment Vehicle is designed to illustrate how XM's next-generation technology can be implemented by its automotive partners.

About XM

XM is America's number one satellite radio company. Broadcasting live daily from studios in Washington, DC, New York City, Chicago, Nashville, Toronto and Montreal, XM's 2008 lineup includes more than 170 digital channels of choice from coast to coast: commercial-free music, premier sports, news, talk radio, comedy, children's and entertainment programming; and the most advanced traffic and weather information.

XM, the leader in satellite-delivered entertainment and data services for the automobile market through partnerships with General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Nissan, Porsche, Ferrari, Subaru, Suzuki and Toyota, is available in 140 different vehicle models for 2008. XM's industry-leading products are available at consumer electronics retailers nationwide. For more information about XM hardware, programming and partnerships, please visit http://www.xmradio.com/.

About Acura

Acura offers a full line of technologically advanced performance luxury vehicles through a network of 268 dealers within the United States. The 2008 Acura lineup features five distinctive models including the RL luxury performance sedan, the TL performance luxury sedan, the TSX sports sedan, the turbocharged RDX luxury crossover SUV and the award-winning MDX luxury sport utility vehicle.

About Baron Services

Baron Services is a pioneer in sophisticated weather analysis and technology and a globally recognized industry leader in delivering technology for the communication of significant weather events. It offers a wide range of weather solutions and owns numerous weather technology patents. The company delivers cutting-edge radar systems, advanced forecast modeling, mobile weather analysis and localized weather displays. Operating primarily from Huntsville, Alabama, with offices in Oklahoma, North Carolina and Florida, Baron Services includes five specialized divisions that continue to advance the weather industry by providing systems engineered to save both lives and property. The company has, to date, installed all broadcast dual-polarimetric radars in the world.

Threat Matrix is a trademark of Baron Services, Inc.

Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements in this press release include demand for XM Satellite Radio's service, the Company's dependence on technology and third party vendors, its potential need for additional financing, as well as other risks described in XM Satellite Radio Holdings Inc.'s Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on 3-1-07. Copies of the filing are available upon request from XM Radio's Investor Relations Department. Programming is subject to change.