DALLAS – Sirius Satellite Radio has hired Michael Ledford to be its senior vp of engineering and help the fledgling company launch its satellite radio network. He will oversee all engineering operations, including the manufacturer of the receivers to be placed in the vehicles, effective October 1.

Sirius made the announcement at the Great American Truck Show.

Ledford formerly headed up the automotive strategy group at Wingcast, a joint venture between Ford Motor Co. and satellite communications provider Qualcomm to develop wireless vehicle systems. He also served as executive director of telematics at Ford, developing in-vehicle communication and information systems.

Sirius, based in New York, plans to broadcast up to 100 digital radio channels via three satellites throughout the continental United States. The company said 50 of those radio channels would provide music, with the rest offering sports, news, comedy, and children’s programming.

The company said expects to charge $12.95 a month for its satellite radio service, though it isn’t clear if that fee will apply equally to both motorists and truckers.