One
of the strong potential markets for the new IntelliRide™ air
spring system is the mobility market. The goal of IntelliRide systems
for these customers is to provide greater ease of entry and exit out
of the vehicle as well as compensate for changing loads. Currently
ramps are a popular means of access, allowing the driver to pull themselves
into the vehicle. By lowering the vehicle from its standard height,
the angle of the ramp decrease allowing the customer to more easily
pull him/her into the vehicle. This creates short-term benefits as
well as decreases the possibility for future rotator cuff surgery long-term.
The IntelliRide controls combined with the air springs allows the driver
to lower or raise the vehicle with a single push of a button. Firestone
has been displaying the IntelliRide system on a 2003 4x4 Ford Expedition
that is fully equipped with mobility enhancements for the ruggedly
independent mobility challenged individual. The vehicle has been displayed
at the 2003 National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association Conference,
2003 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, 2003 New York
Auto Show, the 2003 Cleveland Auto Show, with more exhibitions planned.
It is estimated that 2.8 million people will see our IntelliRide system
on the Expedition throughout the extensive show season.