Automotive e-commerce company StoneAge.com has launched a free Web-based e-mail service called Driver2Driver.com. Driver2Driver is part of the growing trend of computerization in cars called telematics. It uses the car's license plate as the e-mail address, according to Mark Campbell, chairman and CEO of StoneAge. Within the next year, companies like General Motors and Ford are expecting millions of their new vehicles to be equipped with Internet access, with GM OnStar already boasting more than 800,000 subscribers. "Driver2Driver is in anticipation of every car having e-mail capabilities," Campbell said. "By 2004, it's feasible that all new vehicles will be equipped with Internet access. What better e-mail address to have for your car or truck than your license plate? The telematics market is expected to grow from $1 billion to $42 billion by 2010 and we're serious about launching innovative wireless services to the online auto consumer." According to Campbell, StoneAge.com's Driver2Driver is the world's first free Web-based e-mail designed for automobiles. Consumers go to Driver2Driver.com, register their license plate as their e-mail address and enter a password for a free and permanent e-mail account. Anyone wanting to sell their car can use Driver2Driver to communicate with potential buyers. "You might even receive an alpha text page on your hand held phone from someone letting you know that your car lights are on," Campbell said. "Like our free Concierge service, Driver2Driver was created to unite our driver community of 2 million customers." About StoneAge.com StoneAge.com does business with 1.5 million consumers and more than 1,000 dealers each month. In addition to its "Locate" Referral service, the company expanded into "In-Stock" Referrals, Auto Agent and Auto Turn Downs. StoneAge.com is the only company to receive PC Magazine's highly coveted EXCELLENT designation in the online car buying industry. Ranked among the top five online car-buying services in the United States, StoneAge.com was founded in 1996 and is headquartered in the Detroit metro area. StoneAge is a privately held company, which has grown 300% each year, and has been profitable in the last two years. It currently employs a staff of 100 and occupies 23,000 square feet of office space in Troy, Michi.
0 Comments