Web-based version developed for Transman Smaller fleets with Internet access can now subscribe to a Web-based version of Transman maintenance management software. For a monthly fee, ASP (application service provider) customers will be able to use a web browser for full access to the entire Transman suite of maintenance management products, according to TMTsoftware Co. The subscription also includes unlimited telephone technical support, database conversions and creation, software licenses and network support.

TMTsoftware has also released upgrades for Windows and AS/400 versions of its maintenance package. Transman for AS/400 V6.5 includes new PM processing and reporting routines, as well as improved invoicing and purchase-order features. Transman for Windows V3.0 offers improved navigation and more flexible shop-level modules for implementing a paperless shop system.

Motient Corp., formerly called American Mobile Satellite Corp., has agreed to sell its wireless data services for the trucking industry to Aether Systems Inc. Originally formed to launch and operate a wireless communications satellite, Motient also created an integrated terrestrial/satellite communications network that currently provides two-way messaging and data services to some 200 transportation fleets with some 15,000 vehicles.

While Motient has had some success offering truck fleets integrated wireless data packages, its main business remains two-way mobile and Internet communications services for business-to-business customers. In addition to its satellite system, Motient offers wireless data services over the former ARDIS land-based network, which it purchased from Motorola.

Under the agreement, Aether will obtain all of Motient's retail customers in the transportation sector as well as the company's transportation-related products, including its new MobileMax2 multimode transceiver and associated fleet management software. Motient's contract to provide land-based wireless communications for UPS was not included in the sale.

Aether will pay Motient $45 million plus an additional sum of up to $22.5 million based on revenue and other incentive targets in 2001. The agreement also calls for Aether to resell $25 million worth of Motient satellite and terrestrial services over the next three years.

Aether is a provider of wireless and mobile data products and services that allow real-time communications and transactions across a full range of mobile devices and networks. While it began operations in the financial services market, the company has been actively expanding into other vertical markets, including health care, education and transportation.

Correction: An August news story about a new online fleet optimization system from ALK Assocs. included an incorrect URL for the service. The correct web site address is www.fleetcommander.net.

AccuWeather Inc. is now offering customized forecast services over the Internet for fleets and other transportation businesses. The new service includes access to a subscriber's own password-protected Internet site with weather and road condition forecasts for the interstate highway system, as well as severe weather warnings. Go to www.accuweather.com.

@Track Communications Inc., a provider of wireless-based vehicle fleet management and mobile asset-tracking solutions, announced it has completed an integration of its HighwayMaster Series 5000 mobile communications system with TruckMate for Windows, a dispatch software system developed by Maddocks Systems Inc. Visit www.highwaymaster.com.

With 2,200 leased tractors, truckload carrier Dart Transit expects a new fuel and route optimization tool to save it $2.2 million a year. The new software system, OptiStop from Logistics.com, helps a fleet develop efficient routes and choose fuel stops based on driver preferences as well as fuel cost.