Delphi to support Trucker Buddy program with communications devices

INDIANAPOLIS (Feb. 15, 2002) — Vehicle electronics supplier Delphi Automotive Systems pledged its support for a trucker-student pen-pal program by providing wireless mobile communications devices.

The program, called Trucker Buddy International, encourages over-the-road truck drivers to exchange postcards with grade-school classes. Every week, drivers share news about their travels with their assigned classes, and provide a format for learning about geography, mathematics, social studies, and history.

Delphi said it will provide drivers with its Communiport onboard computer and wireless messaging device. The system integrates audio, Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) positioning, and wireless communication. It will make it easier for drivers and students to exchange e-mail, the company said.

In its nine years of operation, Trucker Buddy, a non-profit organization, has spread to about 5000 driver/teacher matches with about 135,000 students in grades second through eighth participating in the program, including students in Canada.