SmarTire Systems Introduces Next Generation Tire Monitoring System
16 November 1999
SmarTire Systems Introduces Next Generation Tire Monitoring System
RICHMOND, BC--Nov. 16, 1999--SmarTire Systems Inc.introduced the next generation of tire monitoring technology for passenger cars at the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas, November 2-5, 1999, the world's largest gathering of aftermarket automotive suppliers.SmarTire's functional models of its new tire monitoring system (TMS) drew an enthusiastic response from over 450 key decision makers from Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), Tier 1 suppliers and automotive accessory distributors. Their reactions confirm that SmarTire's new TMS has further extended the Company's lead over the competition with superior product performance and features.
Visitors to the SEMA show experienced SmarTire's tire monitoring technology first hand by riding in one of over two hundred Yellow/Checker/Star taxis equipped with SmarTire's TMS. Cody McArthur, Fleet Manager for Yellow/Checker/Star Cab stated, "We've evaluated the SmarTire system side by side with the competition. The only tire monitoring system to buy is the SmarTire system".
SmarTire's new TMS features a completely new transmitter in a choice of two mounting configurations, as well as a modular receiver that offers a choice of tire monitoring functions through a fully programmable digital display. This new product offers major improvements in cost, size, weight, installation, and performance over the current system.
The new transmitter contains a custom Application Specific Integrated Sensor (ASIS). The ASIS is the result of an extensive co-development effort between SmarTire and TRW, combining SmarTire's market leading expertise in tire monitoring technologies with TRW's extensive background in automotive electronic systems. The ASIS combines the sensing element and numerous electronic components into a single chip, significantly reducing transmitter size, weight and cost while improving performance. The new transmitter is offered with two installation options: a band mount featuring a quick attachment strap or an adjustable valve stem mount, which allows replacement of the valve stem without the need to replace the transmitter. The overwhelming response from participants at SEMA was that both designs virtually eliminate tire mounting and dismounting inefficiencies.
"The modular design of our latest TMS, combined with the ability to remotely mount the display, offers the customer numerous choices for installing the system," stated Mark Desmarais, President and Chief Operating Officer, of SmarTire. "The modular design also facilitates tailored displays designed to provide customer specific features and functions for vehicle retrofit and accessory programs, as well as catalog offerings for OEM type installation in existing vehicles. These features open new and high volume market opportunities." The Company is now finalizing the design of customized receivers in co-operation with several of the major automakers and fleet operators in both Europe and North America.
SmarTire Systems Inc. is the developer and marketer of proprietary tire monitoring systems for the North American and European automotive markets. Goodyear, Michelin and Bridgestone/Firestone have all approved the current SmarTire(TM) system for use on their run flat and conventional radial tires. Through a strategic alliance, SmarTire and TRW Inc. are committed to providing superior tire monitoring systems. Additional information is available on the Internet at www.smartire.com.
Robert V. Rudman, CA, Chairman & 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.