Sony Computer Entertainment America has announced that its 80GB PlayStation 3 model has shipped to retail, and is now available in both the United Stated and in Canada for $599. 60GB PS3 models for $499 are available until supplies last.

As earlier reported, besides offering the platform’s largest hard drive, the new machines also come bundled with a copy of Evolution Studios' off road racing game Motorstorm, a PS3 exclusive.

"The 80GB PS3 offers expanded options in the PS3 family of products for those who want to enjoy more downloadable content," said Peter Dille, senior vice president of marketing, SCEA. "The new model will provide ample storage spacej to meet the appetites of those who wish to download content today, and for many more years to come. With the expanded disk capacity and dynamic system upgrades, we have effectively created a system that is 'future-proof,' providing consumers an exceptional entertainment value that will stand the test of time."
Sony claims that unit sales of the recently reduced $499 PS3 have surged 113% at the company's top five retailers which include Wal-Mart, Target, Best Buy, Circuit City, and GameStop. The company also said that, at current demand levels, the 60GB console will remain in the North American retail channel until fall.