TruePosition, Inc. and Shell Affiliate Announce Agreement
11 November 1998
TruePosition, Inc. and Shell Affiliate Announce Agreement to Develop Commercial Location ServicesHOUSTON, 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.