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Driver Distraction on the Information Super Highway

26 July 2000

e-Car Guru Says `Technology' Not to Blame

    HUNTSVILLE, Ala. - e-Car Guru and technology innovator Derrick Copeland believes he has it all-- total computer access and safety while in his car. As the inventor of the first integrated and installed Windows 98 based Q-PC Real Car Computer, Copeland says in-car computing is not to blame for driver distraction on the road.

    "People are going to have to take the responsibility that comes with their driver's license," said Copeland, founder and CEO of Q-PC, Inc., responding to current debate on driver distraction associated with technology. "People will be able to adapt to computing technology in the car if they are provided with the right technology and are taught how to use it."

    Q-PC Real Car Computing is emerging as the global leader in advanced vehicle information technology. The company provides e-car solutions that can enhance safety and security as well as comfort, convenience, and productivity.

    "Let's face it - this is the information age. Businesses and consumers are going to use information technology in the car. That's why we factor safety into the design. We feel that it is imperative for us to educate our customers on its safe use in a vehicle," said Copeland.

    Federal safety regulators are currently conducting a major study into the risks of using cell phones, Internet and other electronic devices in vehicles. For example, it is estimated seven million people use laptops in cars. Q-PC's expertise is derived from Copeland's involvement in developing rugged computing and communications solutions for the U.S. Army to keep soldiers safe from friendly fire in wartime.

    Q-PC is a recent spin-off of Applied Data Trends, one of the fastest growing, privately held companies in the U.S. and a leader in command, control, communications, and computers. Q-PC offers a wide range of products and services for government, business and personal use, each designed with the mission of helping customers better distribute, process and utilize information.