AKRON, Ohio -- The launch of Goodyear's fleetHQ earlier this year has already strengthened its US and Canadian service business by fortifying its dealer network with improved services and coverage, according to the company.

'It's been a validated success,' said Charlie Walters, general manager for the new service. 'We have more than 11,000 fleets and owner/operators enrolled in the program, which provides roadside assistance, national tire pricing, and centralized billing through local dealers.'

According to Walters, the program is available to truck operators big and small. 'A core component of the program, is the reduction of downtime through our emergency roadside service program. More than 1,500 dealers are ready with service 24/7.'

With that type of coverage, Walters contends that Goodyear can get its customers back up and running quickly, and help them save money in the process, since there are no fees for this toll free service. In contrast, other emergency tire service programs have incidence fees that can range from $25 to more than $75, he adds.

'Plus, the price our customer pays for the replacement tire is the same price he pays at 'home,' with his local dealer providing the invoice.'

Purchase history is available through the Web for tires purchased through the solution centre and retread tracking and Web-based call reporting for emergency road service is also available, which is intended to help fleet customers manage inventories and track work orders.

Joseph Copeland, vice-president for Goodyear commercial tire systems, said the tire service call volume has increase by 35% compared to a year ago.

'FleetHQ gives fleets of all sizes the consistency, efficiency and information they need to help reduce their operating costs. No matter their size, fleet customers are most concerned about cost of ownership and operation, pricing, consistency of service, national coverage and the ability to maximize uptime.'