Revolutionizing the Ride in Fire Rescue Vehicles

April 19, 2005
Spartan Chassis, a subsidiary of Spartan Motors, Inc. (Nasdaq: SPAR), today introduces an innovative independent front suspension system on their fire rescue chassis at the annual Fire Department Instructor's Conference in Indianapolis, Indiana.
CHARLOTTE, Michigan, April 14, 2005 -Spartan Chassis, a subsidiary of Spartan Motors, Inc. (Nasdaq: SPAR), today introduces an innovative independent front suspension system on their fire rescue chassis at the annual Fire Department Instructor's Conference in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Spartan Chassis has been widely recognized for bringing the independent front suspension system to the motorhome industry. Spartan recently took their smooth air-ride suspension technology and adapted it for use on their fire rescue vehicles.

The custom-engineered, air spring independent front suspension (IFS) provides fire departments with an added level of safety and durability. A vehicle equipped with the Spartan air spring IFS system has a highly maneuverable steering system with a wheel cut of 55 degrees; an IFS-equipped vehicle wheel cut that is unmatched in the industry today. The high wheel cut makes a fire truck easy to operate in intersections and on residential streets where tight turns and high curbs pose a threat.

"Spartan's air spring IFS system and numerous other safety innovations we are introducing at this year's FDIC illustrate our focus on the safety of the fire fighter without the sacrifice of critical performance features," reports Richard Schalter, president of Spartan Chassis.

The driver of a Spartan chassis equipped with the air spring IFS system maintains a higher level of maneuverability and control over their truck. The suspension provides an air spring cushion between the truck and the road, adapting to uneven road conditions, road debris and off-road terrain. A vehicle equipped with the Spartan air spring IFS system has a front axle weight rating of up to 17,000 pounds.

About Spartan Chassis:
Spartan Chassis, Inc. (www.spartanchassis.com) operates under Spartan Motors, Inc. and is a leading developer and manufacturer of custom chassis for recreational vehicles and fire trucks. The company has a reputation for high quality, value, service and being the first to market with innovative products. Spartan Motors is publicly traded in the NASDAQ Stock Market under the ticker symbol SPAR.

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