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SmarTire Europe Posts Increasing Sales

7 July 1999

SmarTire Europe Posts Increasing Sales

    RICHMOND, British Columbia--July 6, 1999-- SmarTire SystemThe European market is leading the way for increased sales for SmarTire Systems Inc. . A recent order of 3,000 tire monitoring systems in Europe is related to the growth in sales of run-flat tires in the United Kingdom and Germany.
    "The availability of run-flat tires in additional sizes has led to these innovative tires being used on numerous types of fleet cars, particularly in the United Kingdom," commented Ian Bateman, Managing Director, SmarTire Europe. "We anticipate the installation of run-flat tires fitted with SmarTire monitoring systems on such fleets as the police and other emergency vehicles throughout the United Kingdom in the coming months."
    The European market offers different challenges than North America primarily related to language and distribution systems. However, SmarTire's key target countries, the United Kingdom and Germany, offer tremendous opportunity due to the harsh driving conditions, strong focus on automotive safety, and a consumer attitude toward new automotive products that is more accepting than North American consumers.
    Sapproval, a product standard unique to Germany. Because of the demanding TUV requirements, this safety/quality standard is widely recognized throughout Europe.
    "Now that we have the all important TUV approval, our consumer awareness programs and distribution networks can be greatly expanded," said Mr. Bateman.
    SmarTire Systems Inc. develops and markets proprietary tire monitoring systems for the North American and European automotive aftermarkets. Through their strategic alliance, SmarTire Systems and TRW Inc. are committed to providing superior tire monitoring systems for both aftermarket and original equipment applications. Additional information is available at www.smartire.com.
    Robert V. Rudman, CA, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

    Except for the historical information contained herein, this news release contains forward looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties, including the impact of competitive products and pricing and general economic conditions as they affect the Company's customers. Actual results and developments may therefore differ materially from those described in this release.