SuperShuttle Deploys Vettro's Mobile Fleet Optimization Application On Nextel's Packet Data Network

Business Wire, Dec 4, 2002

Business Editors/High-Tech Writers

RESTON, Va. & NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 4, 2002

Vettro's Application Comprehensively Leverages Nextel's Wireless

Business Solutions Capabilities to Maximize Fleet Efficiency

Nextel Communications, Inc. (NASDAQ:NXTL) and Vettro, a leading provider of mobile field services and sales applications, today announced that SuperShuttle has deployed Vettro's mobile Fleet Optimization application on Nextel's packet data network. Their deployment comprehensively leverages Nextel's Wireless Business Solutions offering, an enterprise-strength combination of applications, services, tools, and support for companies deploying business critical wireless solutions. Vettro's application will enable SuperShuttle to increase the efficiency of its fleet operation by allowing dispatchers to assign routes based upon the real-time location and status of each driver. The application is being rolled out across SuperShuttle's nationwide fleet on Java(TM) technology-enabled Nextel handsets, running on the Nextel nationwide, packet data network, supported by Nextel's services and products designed to enable and deliver enterprise applications.

"We selected Vettro's Fleet Optimization application based upon its superior functionality, seamless integration with our fleet operations, and cost-effective deployment model," said Mike Hogan, chief technology officer of SuperShuttle. "Deploying Vettro's application across Nextel's nationwide network was ideal for SuperShuttle since we were able to leverage our existing investment in Nextel, which we rely upon for reach and coverage in running our business. The combination of Vettro's application and Nextel's network will enable SuperShuttle to increase the utilization of our vehicles and enhance the level of service we provide to our customers."

Vettro's application leverages Nextel's iDEN technology to reliably exchange data between drivers and SuperShuttle's fleet operations. This is another example of how Nextel meets the needs of its customers through its Wireless Business Solutions initiative, which addresses the needs of business that require on-demand delivery of real-time applications and information across the extended enterprise. This mobile Fleet Optimization application is supported by all five of the cornerstones that support Nextel's enterprise platform - network, applications, wireless services, management and development tools and support.

The Vettro/Nextel solution enables SuperShuttle to assign routes based upon the real-time location, obtained via an external Global Positioning Service (GPS) receiver, and status of each driver. SuperShuttle drivers receive detailed route, trip, and passenger information from fleet operations and are able to request passenger flight updates and add, modify, or delete trip information from their Java(TM) technology-enabled Nextel handsets. Additionally, the application integrates with credit card readers to allow drivers to accept and authorize point-of-service payments.

"With the coverage, mobility, security, reliability and performance of our nationwide network and our Wireless Business Solutions initiative, Nextel helps companies, such as SuperShuttle, improve their customer experience by delivering real-time information to mobile workers at any location, and streamlining operations through faster exchange of information among mobile workers," said Henry Popplewell, Nextel's vice president, Transportation & Distribution. "This application is great for our transportation customers, who need to optimize mobile assets in real-time in a cost-effective way. We continue to be impressed with the robustness and usability of Vettro's application and believe this enterprise application will generate substantial business value for companies managing mobile workers and assets."

"We are delighted that SuperShuttle is able to derive meaningful operational, financial and customer service benefits from using Vettro's application," said Joe Rymsza, president and chief executive officer of Vettro. "We are pleased to be leveraging all the components of Nextel's Wireless Business initiative to drive measurable results for our customers."

About Nextel

Nextel Communications, a Fortune 300 company based in Reston, Va., is a leading provider of fully-integrated wireless voice and data communications services including Nextel Direct Connect(R)--the long-range digital walkie-talkie feature; high quality digital cellular services; Nextel Online(R) wireless data content and business solutions; and two-way messaging services. Nextel and Nextel Partners, Inc. have built the largest guaranteed all-digital wireless network covering 197 of the top 200 U.S. markets. Nextel's wireless voice and packet data communications services are available today in areas of the U.S. where approximately 240 million people live or work.

About Vettro

Vettro is a leading provider of mobile field services and sales applications, which enable organizations to achieve measurable business results within their field operations.