Crimson Fire Introduces Smart Vision(TM) Vehicle Monitoring System

Robust Multiplex System Serves as a "Heart Monitor" for Truck

BRANDON, S.D., April 30 -- Many of a fire truck's critical functions are controlled by computers, so why not have a monitor just as advanced? That was the challenge that birthed the Smart Vision(TM) system, the next generation in vehicle monitoring.

Fire truck maker Crimson Fire is showcasing Smart Vision at the Fire Department Instructors Conference in Indianapolis, Ind., April 29 - May 1.

Smart Vision is the result of 18 months of research and development with Weldon Technologies, Inc., a designer, manufacturer and marketer of state-of- the-art lighting devices and customized electrical control solutions for specialty vehicles.

"Comparing traditional multiplex systems and the Smart Vision system is similar to comparing a radio and a television," said Jeff Lautt, president of Crimson Fire. "This system integrates three dimensional visual and text information to provide a more interactive and more understandable form of information to fire fighters and officers, helping them do their jobs better."

Lautt also said that the multiplex system provides a more understandable form of communicating systems issues with fire fighters and officers. "If your aerial isn't properly in the cradle, this system shows you a specific visual diagram and text to identify the problem. If your service center needs to know how many hours your pump has operated between maintenance or on a given shift -- this system quickly and easily provides that information."

The Smart Vision multiplex system features an interactive full-color screen for both operator and officer feedback control, as well as a monitoring system for preventative maintenance on all truck systems.

Traditional multiplex systems incorporate a series of codes to detect and identify issues with various truck systems. Smart Vision merges visual technology with written language to allow a more precise method of detection and identification for rescue workers.

The new system serves as a "heart monitor" for the truck, allowing customers to identify problems anywhere on the truck, isolate maintenance requirements, and more quickly and accurately evaluate system performance through a fully integrated visual display monitor mounted inside the cab.

Smart Vision will be on display for user interaction during the FDIC conference. This interactive display will provide customers and dealers a first-hand glimpse of the technology, as well as give a feel for how this technology will enhance and improve their performance on the job.

Crimson said other applications for the system are in progress, and the Company will continue to build on this technology and leverage the capability across all of Spartan Motors' brands.

About Crimson Fire

Crimson Fire(TM), a Spartan Motors(TM) company, is a leading manufacturer of custom fire trucks and other rescue vehicles, representing quality, value and innovation. Crimson Fire was established in 2003, when Spartan Motors, Inc. merged its two fire apparatus subsidiaries, Quality Manufacturing and Luverne Fire Apparatus. The Company now draws on more than 130 years of excellence in fire truck manufacturing. Crimson Fire manufactures pumpers, rescues, aerials, quick-attack vehicles and other fire and rescue trucks from facilities in Alabama, Pennsylvania and South Dakota. For more information on Crimson Fire, visit www.crimson-fire.com .

About Spartan Motors

Spartan Motors, Inc. (www.spartanmotors.com ) designs, engineers and manufactures custom chassis and vehicles for the recreational vehicle, fire truck, ambulance and emergency-rescue markets. The company's brand names -- Spartan(TM), Crimson Fire(TM), Crimson Fire Aerials(TM), and Road Rescue(TM) -- are known in their market niches for quality, value, service and being the first to market with innovative products. Spartan Motors employs approximately 700 at facilities in Michigan, Alabama, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, and South Dakota and is publicly traded on The Nasdaq Stock Market under the ticker symbol SPAR.