Market Embraces SmarTire Systems

19 November 1998

Market Embraces SmarTire Systems as The Solution For Conventional Tires

    RICHMOND, British Columbia--Nov. 19, 1998--With the theme "All Tires Need SmarTire Sensors", SmarTire Systems Inc. (VSE:SES)(OTC BB:SMTR) successfully promoted use of the SmarTire(TM) monitoring system for conventional radial tires at the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show, November 3-6, 1998, the world's largest gathering of aftermarket automotive suppliers.
    SmarTire's appearance at the SEMA show generated over three hundred sales leads and the establishment of contacts with several of North America's largest tire dealers and a number of international automotive distributors. Significant interest was expressed by new car dealers for SmarTire monitoring systems. In addition, custom wheel manufacturers were enthusiastic about the possibility of adding the SmarTire(TM) system as part of their wheel and tire package sold to consumers. SmarTire's introduction of the external valve stem system currently under development was also well received by representatives from the recreational vehicle and trucking markets.
    The SEMA show, held annually in Las Vegas, Nevada, follows the SmarTire(TM) system debut as the only tire monitoring product available for demonstration at the prestigious Automechanika trade show in Frankfurt, Germany in September, 1998. SmarTire's participation in these trade shows have proven to be successful components of the Company's comprehensive marketing campaign to raise corporate and product awareness.
    Joseph Merback, President and CEO of SmarTire USA, stated, "As a direct result of our participation at the SEMA show, we have received numerous inquiries from both tire dealers and major automobile manufacturers' accessory departments. This enthusiastic reception attests to the large sales potential for our SmarTire(TM) systems. We intend to build upon our successful showing, increasing awareness of our product and strengthening our position as the leader in the tire monitoring field".
    SmarTire Systems Inc. is the developer and marketer of proprietary tire monitoring systems for the North American and European automotive aftermarkets. The Company is pursuing the passenger car market segment in response to the introduction of new tire technologies and changing consumer needs. Goodyear, Michelin and Bridgestone/Firestone have all approved the current SmarTire(TM) system for use with their run-flat tires. Through a strategic alliance, SmarTire and TRW Inc. are committed to providing superior tire monitoring systems for both aftermarket and original equipment applications. Additional information is available on the Internet at www.smartire.com.

On behalf of the Board of Directors, Robert V. Rudman, C.A., President and CEO

    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.
    The Vancouver Stock Exchange has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of the contents of this release.