Networkcar(TM), a Reynolds and Reynolds company, announced Nov. 25 that it has been awarded a patent by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (No. US 6,636,790) titled "Wireless Diagnostic System and Method for Monitoring Vehicles." The patent describes a process and device for collecting diagnostic data through an in-vehicle connector, transmitting the data to a Web site and analyzing it to characterize a vehicle's performance. One application of this technology would be to provide a person access to a Web site that identifies and describes any electrical, mechanical or emissions malfunction that was detected with his vehicle. The patent also covers an in-vehicle system that collects diagnostic information from the host vehicle, and location information from a global positioning system (GPS), and then transmits this information to an Internet-accessible Web site. This patent adds to Networkcar's growing patent portfolio, which, according to Reynolds and Reynolds, currently features 19 pending and issued U.S. patents. "This patent validates our leadership role in the development of remote diagnostics technology," said Networkcar President Dave Dutch. "Receiving this patent reinforces our belief that anyone deploying next generation automotive services will increasingly rely on Networkcar's cutting-edge diagnostic technology to enhance their business offerings." This patent protects new technology being developed by Networkcar in the field of wireless, remote diagnostics for cars and trucks. Networkcar said it expects the patent to foster licensing opportunities that will increase the use of remote diagnostic information throughout the automotive industry and in related businesses such as insurance. Networkcar said its system collects and organizes detailed automotive information directly from a vehicle's engine computer and location-based information from a GPS. Maintenance and operation information are transmitted wirelessly to an information center where it is made available to car owners, automotive dealerships and fleets in the form of immediate e-mail alerts, summary e-mail reports or easy-to-read Web pages. Networkcar said its technology is compatible with virtually all cars and trucks manufactured since 1996. About Networkcar Networkcar (www.networkcar.com) is a provider of around-the-clock services for monitoring the performance, location and security of consumer and fleet vehicles. The company features monitoring technology and satellite-location systems that it says enable it to provide the most advanced solution for car maintenance and operation on the market today. Networkcar includes real-time car performance updates, Smart Roadside Assistance, stolen vehicle recovery services and Car Guardian(TM), a feature that allows a car owner to find their car by accessing a secure Web page. Networkcar is a Platinum Technology Partner in Safety for Mother's Against Drunk Driving (MADD). "With Networkcar, car owners and fleets increase safety and security, save time and reduce costs with advanced preventive maintenance and early problem detection," the company said in a prepared statement. About Reynolds and Reynolds Reynolds and Reynolds (www.reyrey.com) is a provider of integrated solutions designed to help automotive retailers manage change and improve their profitability. Serving the automotive retailing industry since 1927, Reynolds says it enables OEMs and retailers to work together to build the lifetime value of their customers. The company's product, service and training solutions include retail and enterprise management systems, Web and customer relationship management solutions, learning and consulting services, documents, data management and integration, networking and support and leasing services. Reynolds serves more than 20,000 customers comprising nearly 90 percent of the automotive retailers and virtually all OEMs doing business in North America. The Reynolds International Division serves automotive retailers and OEMs through Incadea AG and its partner network as well as a worldwide consulting practice.