Sirius adds traffic reports

Sirius Satellite Radio announced plans Tuesday to offer local traffic reports, hoping to beat services offered by market leader XM Satellite Radio.

Sirius said in a statement it has contracted with traffic information service Navteq to provide live traffic data for 30 U.S. metropolitan areas. Beside audio reports, the service will work with in-car navigation systems to update maps and routing services.

"Combined with an in-car navigational system, consumers will be able to accurately determine the most direct routes through the mapping function, while being continuously informed about potential delays or incidents that could disrupt their travel plans," Jim Meyer, Sirius president of operations and sales, said in the statement.

XM, which competes with Sirius in delivering subscription-based satellite audio services, offers live traffic and weather reports for 21 U.S. metropolitan areas.