ALTAVISTA, Va. — Schrader today announced its sponsorship of a new online industry resource that addresses the specific TPMS needs of aftermarket retailers, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and drivers. Developed based on extensive research among of industry experts and drivers, the site approaches TPMS from the three distinct perspectives, Schrader said.

“Two years into full TPMS compliance there are still many questions about TPMS among industry and drivers,” said Carl Wacker, vice president of Global Sales and Marketing at Schrader. “We are sponsoring this industry initiative as more TPMS-equipped vehicles come onto the roadways every year in the U.S. and as TPMS adoption spreads globally.”

The Web portal includes a variety of industry-focused site content via three different channels:

·    TPMSMadeEasy.com provides interactive training resources, case studies, POS materials and more to help aftermarket retailers and repair technicians successfully integrate TPMS service;

·    TPMSMadeRight.com offers objective technology insight, industry reports and other technical data to assist OEMs with purchasing decisions; and

·    Designed for consumers, TPMSMadeSimple.com provides detailed information about TPMS and the importance of maintaining proper tire pressure. Drivers also can learn the specific steps to take if their TPMS light illuminates, and calculate how much money proper tire pressure can save them at the pump every year. The aftermarket and OEM communities also can use the site as a resource for customer information or direct customers to the site.

In addition, Schrader enlisted a range of safety and industry experts to discuss the implementation and impact of TPMS on the site, including Jackie Glassman, who served as chief counsel at the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) when the Transportation Recall Enhancement, Accountability and Documentation (TREAD) Act, which mandated TPMS for all vehicles in the United States, was passed. Industry association executives, environmental journalists and other experts also appear on the site, highlighting the safety, economic and environmental benefits of TPMS.

“It was important to us to engage diverse voices to provide the industry with the information, tools and resources it needs to make sound business decisions and to communicate about TPMS with customers,” Wacker said.

Sean McKinnon, director of Automotive Training Development at the Tire Industry Association, also is featured on the site. In his comments, McKinnon reiterates the importance of customer communication. “The goal in effectively educating the public about TPMS is to make it real,” McKinnon said. “When the consumer sees the TPMS telltale illuminates on their vehicle, they need to know to, number one, stop, check their air pressure and immediately get to a tire dealer so that condition can be addressed.”