TruePosition, Inc. and Shell Affiliate Announce Agreement
11 November 1998
TruePosition, Inc. and Shell Affiliate Announce Agreement to Develop Commercial Location Services HOUSTON, Nov. 11 -- Equiva Services LLC, an affiliate of
Shell, and TruePosition, Inc. announced today they have signed an agreement to
jointly develop and market location-based services and applications using the
TruePosition(R) Wireless Location System(TM). Under the agreement, the two
companies will combine their efforts to accelerate the deployment of wireless
location systems and related value-added applications across North America for
the motorist and the individual consumer.
To date, wireless location technology has been associated with the Federal
Communications Commission's mandate to locate wireless E9-1-1 callers.
However, both companies see a significant market opportunity in new services,
such as stolen vehicle recovery, automatic crash notification, enhanced
"concierge" information programs, and enhancements to the Shell Motorist Club
roadside assistance program.
Kent Sander, president and COO of TruePosition, added, "We're excited to
be working with Shell and their vision for the future. We think Shell's
product innovation, strong consumer marketing, and worldwide brand recognition
will help fuel the growth of these new markets. As we have stated, part of
TruePosition's mandate is to expand beyond E9-1-1 services and create new
value for wireless networks."
"This new location technology, combined with Shell's automated fueling and
other services, is part of our new innovation-based strategy, and these
capabilities set Shell at the forefront of gasoline retailing technology,"
said Sam Morasca, vice president of marketing and brands management for the
Shell brand. "Our objective is to provide the motorist with safe, quick,
simple to use products and services which can save them time and money. For
example, TruePosition offers the best location technology available for
pursuing new service applications for Shell customers. The Shell Motorist
Club will be able to expand its programs to serve an increasingly mobile
society, and we have found a partner with significant wireless experience."
"Shell and TruePosition are identifying new commercial services designed
for motorists and the general public, including vehicle management with on-
board diagnostics, tracking stolen vehicles and notifying the police,
providing entertainment programs and games for families on the road" says
Kevin Autin manager business development/fuel delivery systems for the Shell
brand.
"The TruePosition system exemplifies how people can Count on Shell(TM) to
help build a better world," says Sixtus Oechsle, executive director, Corporate
Identity, Shell Oil Company. "Further, its tracking capabilities offer real
help to people in emergency situations. TruePosition and the Count on Shell
safety campaign will work hand in hand to educate and respond with accuracy to
anyone needing assistance."
Early results of the Shell and TruePosition relationship are evidenced in
the recently announced agreement with the Greater Harris County 9-1-1 Network
to provide wireless 9-1-1 location services in the Houston area. While the
agreement itself was focused on wireless E9-1-1, interest in exploring
consumer-related applications was a catalyst for all parties involved in the
deployment.
Shell gasoline is marketed in more than 9,000 Shell-branded stations in 39
states nationwide.
TruePosition, Inc. is a leading provider of wireless location technology
and services. TruePosition is a wholly-owned subsidiary of The Associated
Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: AGRPA, AGRPB), a diversified communications company with
ownership and operation of a variety of communications businesses and
interests, including TruePosition; a controlling interest in Teligent, Inc., a
full-service, integrated communications company offering local, long distance,
high-speed data and dedicated Internet services over its fixed wireless local
networks; and a significant interest in Tele-Communications, Inc.
