OK, so it seems like I was wrong, I predicted that Hyundai was going to go to Sirius - because news just arrived that Hyundai will be the first automaker to launch XM as standard, factory-installed equipment in every vehicle across its entire model line-up.

Starting in 2006, XM radios will be factory-installed in all Hyundai models, beginning with the all-new Sonata, Santa Fe, Elantra, and the upcoming replacement for the XG350 premium sedan.

By year-end 2006, 75% of Hyundai's sales volume will be XM-equipped, with the remaining models following quickly thereafter, totaling well over 500,000 units by 2007.

This is huge. Not just for XM, but for the entire satellite radio industry. Being included as standard-equipment not only exposes every consumer to the benefits of satellite, but legitimizes the medium as not just a luxury. Hyundai is really "the people's car" (sorry Volkswagen), and including something that used to be a luxury for no extra cost to the consumer, is a HUGE step in the perception of what Satellite Radio is to the average joe.