In the wake of the Firestone recall, tire safety is on the mind of virtually every motorist. Now you can offer your customers peace of mind and improved vehicle
and tire safety. 

Legislation, Timing, the Company

On November 20th of last year, President Clinton approved amendments to a federal transportation law that are aimed at preventing future automotive tragedies and represent significant legislation for improved tire safety. The amendments will result in regulations that will require all new vehicles to have warning indicators for low tire pressure.

The amended law specifies that by November 2001, the Secretary of Transportation will complete a rulemaking for a regulation to require a warning system in new motor vehicles to indicate to the operator when a tire is significantly under-inflated. The regulation (the TREAD Act) will become effective no later than November 2003.

"The timing couldn't be better for SmarTire Systems, Inc.," stated Robert Rudman, president and CEO. "This new legislation represents a milestone for the automotive industry as it recognizes the importance of tire safety and the critical role played by monitoring. As a company that has specialized in the tire monitoring technology, SmarTire is witnessing a dramatic increase in consumer awareness for tire safety products. Together with our strategic partners, we will respond to this escalating demand with the right technologies and products."

SmarTire develops and markets the world's most technically advanced tire monitoring systems for all sectors of the automotive and transportation industries. Through a strategic alliance, SmarTire and TRW, Inc. are committed to providing superior tire monitoring systems for both aftermarket and original equipment applications. (NASDAQ: SMTR - news) www.smartire.com.

SmarTire Products for RVs

The innovative SmarTire monitoring system lets you keep tabs on your tire pressure from the convenience of your driver's seat. The SmarTire RV-433 system can be used on up to six tires ­ trailer and towing vehicle. Small wheel-mounted, wireless sensors transmit tire pressure data to a display unit on your dash. The continuous readout gives you the actual status of each tire at a glance. And in the event that the pressure drops below minimum levels, SmarTire will alert you with a warning light and beeper.

Race-proven technology

Engineered for accuracy and reliability, the system can detect the slightest pressure changes. And the display unit is programmable so you can customize your own warning levels. It's racetrack-proven technology approved by major tire manufacturers.

How a small leak can lead to a big problem

Most flat tires don't happen suddenly, but start as a slow leak. Depending upon the severity of the puncture, it could be a matter of hours or days before the tire goes flat. The problem is compounded with trailers and motorhomes because they are often parked for prolonged periods between use, and tires may develop flat spots and sun damage. Under heavy load, damaged tires can quickly lose pressure, heat up and eventually blow out. With SmarTire, you'll know as soon as a tire start losing pressure so you can act quickly to help avoid a potentially dangerous situation.

For years, the world of professional motorsports has served as a laboratory to test and refine new automotive technologies. Many of the features we take for granted in today's passenger cars are a direct result of innovations inspired by the formidable demands of the racetrack. A major racing team first employed SmarTire technology in 1994 after a horrible crash caused by a tire failure.

Perhaps there is no test more grueling than the Championship Auto Racing Teams (CART) circuit. Today, SmarTire technology is used by 80% of all CART teams.

SmarTire Systems has been marketing tire monitoring systems for the transportation industry since 1991. From 300 ton trucks to racing cars, family sedans, and light trucks and RVs, SmarTire monitoring systems lead the industry and are approved by the top tire manufacturers.

SmarTire's new products for 2001

SmarTire is a monitoring system that can tell you exactly what you need to know about your tires in a simple, concise and easy fashion. The display module uses programmable intelligence to bridge the gap between your tires and a basic receiver or full function display mounted in the driver's compartment.

The system consists of a sensor/transmitter and mounting strap for each tire, and an easy to install receiver/display module.

SmarTire's Gen II products will be in production this spring. These products are designed for autos, light trucks, SUVs and smaller trailers and feature sensors that monitor up to 78 psi.

The company is currently developing a product for the commercial vehicle market that will be able to monitor up to 150 psi - - this product should satisfy the majority of large RVs.  

Conclusion

Selling safety has always been a tough job. But with all the tire problems and recalls recently, plus the media's attention to SUV roll-over accidents, consumer's are quickly recognizing that being safe is better than being sorry. Add the expected demands by the feds as it relates to tire pressure warning systems and selling safety becomes selling necessity.

SmarTire has come up with what seems to be a very reliable solution. They have developed technology that monitors tire pressure and temperature. The products improve vehicle safety, help preserve tire life and can save on fuel costs. SmarTire products accurately check tire pressure which can also improve the performance of the vehicle. The company has products and technologies that provide drivers peace of mind with improved tire safety.

This technology is certainly worth considering if you're an original equipment manufacturer, distributor or retailer.

For additional information, contact: SmarTire Systems, Inc., Suite 150, 13151 Vanier Place, Richmond, BC, Canada.

Phone 1-888-982-3001, fax 604-276-2350.

RVN