Canadian Satellite Radio has decided to launch a new brand: XM Canada. A far better name than “Canadian Satellite Radio” (which not only made it difficult to write about, but is pretty generic sounding… think “American Satellite Radio”) Canadians can now visit the XM Canada website to pre-register and become a member of the XM Canada Founder’s Club.

XM Canada will offer an 80-channel line-up that will include the CRTC required four English-language and four French-language Canadian-produced channels. And of course, XM Canada’s listeners get the 1,000+ season games of the NHL. NHL games will be available at launch and beginning with the 2007-2008 season, XM will be the exclusive satellite radio network of the NHL.XM Canada receivers will be available to Canadians through GM dealers, leading retailers and online in time for the 2005 Christmas season.

Thanks MIchael!