http://sparktrucks.com/faq.html 2010-05-14T16:00:56.914-05:00 http://sparktrucks.com/faq.html#Tell_me_about_Sparks_warranty 2010-05-14T16:00:56.914-05:00 The bodies are covered under a five-year limited warranty from the body manufacturer. The warranty covers parts and labor to repair defects in workmanship and failed components in the body. The body structure, display systems and components are included. Wear items, items added by the owner, and items not properly maintained are not covered.<br /><br />Electronics and scrolling system components are covered by a one-year parts-only warranty.<br /> FaqMaker http://sparktrucks.com/faq.html#Which_truck_chassis_is_best_or_ 2010-05-14T16:00:11.072-05:00 For years, the Isuzu NPR series has been the best selling medium-duty chassis in all mobile advertising applications. GMC and Chevrolet also offer an identical model, called the W3500. Selected bodies are designed for van cutaway chassis, either Chevrolet Express, GMC Savana. FaqMaker http://sparktrucks.com/faq.html#How_do_you_get_into_the_back_of 2010-05-14T15:59:26.376-05:00 All Spark truck bodies feature fully opening rear doors; either dual barn doors or roll up doors depending on the models. FaqMaker http://sparktrucks.com/faq.html#About_Spark 2010-05-14T15:58:42.718-05:00 Spark has been the leading supplier of custom mobile advertising truck bodies since 2002. The Spark team has delivered advertising truck bodies in hundreds of locations in the US and abroad.<br /><br />Today, Spark offers the widest range of mobile advertising products available anywhere.<br /><br /> FaqMaker http://sparktrucks.com/faq.html#Where_are_the_Spark_bodies_manu 2010-04-02T20:45:14.578-05:00 All of the mobile advertising bodies that Spark sells are designed and prototyped at Spark facilities in Alabama. After new designs pass prototyping and are approved for production, they are assembled by Spark's manufacturing partners at multiple facilities located throughout the United States and Canada.<br /><br />All bodies are manufactured and assembled entirely in the United States of America.<br /> FaqMaker http://sparktrucks.com/faq.html#Where_are_Spark_products_sold 2010-04-02T20:44:10.580-05:00 Spark products are available from authorized Spark resellers and directly from Spark Equipment LLC.<br /><br /> FaqMaker http://sparktrucks.com/faq.html#Why_would_I_want_a_GPS_system 2009-11-13T22:25:59.309-06:00 If you do not intend to sell any of the ad space on your marketing truck, you do not need a GPS system. <br /><br />If ad sales are a major component of your plan, you should consider adding a GPS to guarantee proof of performance for your advertising clients. The GPS is a black box, hidden somewhere in the truck that tracks all of the vehicle's activity. Most GPS units can log the vehicle's location and speed every few minutes and present that information visually through a web-based interface. The GPS is not an on-board navigation system and does not have a screen. <br /><span style="font:12px Arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; "><br />It's important to note that GPS systems typically use a cellular telephone network to report their data to you. Spark has no knowledge of which cellular network offers the best coverage in your city, and if you purchase your GPS unit as a Spark-installed option, you may discover that it does not work well in your city, or may have a software interface that you are not comfortable working with.<br /><br />A better option is for you to research which GPS system has the combination of features, coverage, and pricing that best matches your needs. The GPS service providers often offer free installation at your location.</span><br /><br /> FaqMaker http://sparktrucks.com/faq.html#Is_training_provided 2009-11-13T22:24:10.721-06:00 Each MUV or DAV comes with a comprehensive users guide. On site training is not included in the purchase price, but is available. The systems are designed to be easily understood, long lasting, and reliable.<br /><br /> FaqMaker http://sparktrucks.com/faq.html#Do_I_have_to_return_my_truck_to 2009-11-13T22:23:34.657-06:00 No. Local warranty service is available in all metropolitan areas of greater than 100,000 population (and many others) through authorized service providers.<br /><br /> FaqMaker http://sparktrucks.com/faq.html#Do_any_Spark_models_require_a_c 2009-11-10T17:26:41.558-06:00 A commercial driver's license, or "CDL", is required only for trucks with a gross vehicle weight rating (GWVR) in excess of 26,000 pounds. None of the trucks listed on this web site have a weight rating in excess of 26,000 pounds.<br /> FaqMaker http://sparktrucks.com/faq.html#Can_I_design_the_ads_myself 2009-11-10T17:25:29.792-06:00 Of course. Ads are usually created with common graphics software applications such as Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator. <br /> FaqMaker http://sparktrucks.com/faq.html#What_is_the_cost_to_produce_an_ 2009-11-10T17:25:14.716-06:00 Generally, high quality printing on backlit film, with a compatible zipper system costs between $3 - $7 per square foot, delivered. <br /><br />The price never includes the cost of professional creative design, which is available separately. If you do not have a relationship with a local graphic designer, Spark can introduce you to talented artists who will design your ads on a freelance basis. Typical cost is around $150 - $200 per ad for the creative design work.<br /><br /> FaqMaker http://sparktrucks.com/faq.html#How_are_the_ads_printed 2009-11-10T17:24:18.264-06:00 The scrolling posters are printed on paper, vinyl, or film. None of the Spark systems require proprietary media, and you are never required to purchase your printing or supplies from Spark, although those services are available at very attractive rates.<br /> FaqMaker http://sparktrucks.com/faq.html#How_is_warranty_service_obtaine 2009-11-10T16:19:19.287-06:00 Warranty support is provided directly from the body manufacturer. Requests for warranty service are required in writing, preferably by email.<br /><br /> FaqMaker http://sparktrucks.com/faq.html#What_is_the_fuel_economy_of_the 2009-11-10T16:17:58.907-06:00 Fuel economy is similar to any commercial truck carrying an equivalent amount of weight. Chevy or GMC van chassis based models generally achieve 12-16 MPG, Isuzu gas NPR based models achieve 8-10 MPG, Isuzu diesel NPR based models achieve 12-14 MPG, and Dodge Sprinter based models achieve 13-17 MPG.<br /><br />Aerocell bodies achieve approximately 15 - 20% better fuel efficiency, due to the integrated aerodynamic fairing.<br /><br />Your mileage may vary.<br /><br /> FaqMaker http://sparktrucks.com/faq.html#Whats_inside_the_body 2009-11-10T16:15:11.261-06:00 It depends.<br /><br />If you are interested in a dedicated advertising vehicle, the interior is finished with smooth white walls and a carpeted floor. If you don't have any ad posters installed, you'll be able to look all the way through the body, which give you many creative options for showing three-dimensional displays. The ceiling is populated with light fixtures to flood the interior with light for the display area and to backlight the ad posters.<br /><br />If you're looking for one of our marketing utility vehicles, and need its ability to perform as a working truck, the interior is totally isolated from the advertising displays. Spark is the first and only manufacturer to offer exterior access to the advertising systems, so even if your truck is full of tools and cargo, you can simply walk up to the truck, flip open a door, and change the ads. It's a patent-pending feature that's only available from Spark.<br /> FaqMaker http://sparktrucks.com/faq.html#Question5 2009-03-12T21:34:22.182-05:00 Yes. Nationwide &mdash; or international &mdash; delivery is available from independent carriers. It is not included in the purchase price. <br /> FaqMaker http://sparktrucks.com/faq.html#Spark_truck_body_production 2009-03-12T21:33:16.934-05:00 FaqMaker http://sparktrucks.com/faq.html#How_are_the_posters_installed 2009-03-12T21:30:27.505-05:00 Posters zip together using a non-proprietary heavy-duty plastic zipper system. The first and last poster on a roll are zipped to a special leader strip, which is securely attached to the motor-driven rollers. <br /><br />Spark's MUV bodies all feature display systems that are accessed from the outside. Ads are installed while standing next to the truck, which offers the benefit of not having to unload any cargo just to change an ad. The DAV configurations of models allow ads to be installed from the outside of the truck, like the MUV models, or from the interior of the truck as well.<br /><br /> FaqMaker http://sparktrucks.com/faq.html#How_many_scrolling_posters_can_ 2009-03-12T21:30:07.044-05:00 Spark offers different scrolling mechanisms depending on the body model. All scrolling systems can hold between 10 and 15 posters per side of the truck. Most customers prefer to install between 3 and 6 posters per side.<br /><br />The standard printing media is backlit film. It is also possible to print ads on paper or vinyl.<br /> FaqMaker http://sparktrucks.com/faq.html#Is_there_a_video_camera_in_the_ 2008-05-03T22:11:53.009-05:00 No.<br /><br />We have to admit being stumped by this question the first couple of times it was asked. Then we learned that other DAV scrolling systems used a particular brand of zip-tape to join their scrolling posters together. It was common for their zip-lock systems to come undone as temperatures rose in the backs of their truck bodies. Video cameras were installed to notify the driver if the scrolling posters separated.<br /><br />Spark uses a non-proprietary plastic zipper system that has been used in scrolling outdoor advertising applications for twenty years. The posters do not come apart unless they are specifically unzipped. The Spark zippers have an adhesive back, but the adhesive is designed for high temperatures. Spark customers receive a list of approved printing vendors that will print the posters, securely affix the zippers, and deliver the finished posters for a very reasonable cost.<br /><br /> FaqMaker http://sparktrucks.com/faq.html#I_want_to_start_a_mobile_advert 2008-04-26T19:59:23.763-05:00 If you intend to start a mobile advertising business, you'll find there are at least four different business models that are effective and can generate sizable revenue. The exact same four models can also lead to crushing financial loss. The Spark blog offers reviews and commentary on this topic.<br /><br /> FaqMaker http://sparktrucks.com/faq.html#Question2 2008-04-26T19:49:11.470-05:00 Spark works with a number of financing and leasing providers. Typical rates are approximately 2% higher than you might expect to pay at your local bank. However, traditional local banks may require substantial additional documentation to become comfortable loaning you money to purchase a specialty vehicle.<br /><br />Spark financing partners do not require unusual loan documentation or business plans as they already understand the unique nature of the Spark vehicles and are eager to do business with you. <br /><br />The Spark credit application is available <a href="http://sparktrucks.com/Spark-credit-app.pdf" rel="self">here</a>.<br /><br /> FaqMaker http://sparktrucks.com/faq.html#How_are_the_ads_illuminated 2008-04-26T19:45:50.964-05:00 Spark has continuously advanced the state of the art in mobile advertising lighting systems. The company was the first to offer 12V DC fluorescent lighting, and was the first to use high-output lighting. For 2008, Spark introduced a patent-pending LED backlighting panel, which consumes less power than any other mobile advertising lighting system, yet offers very bright even backlighting.<br /><br />The brilliance and vivid nighttime appearance causes many viewers to mistake the systems for big-screen plasma TVs.<br /><br /> FaqMaker http://sparktrucks.com/faq.html#Question 2008-04-26T19:18:48.120-05:00 Yes. Spark offers body-only or complete truck pricing on all models.<br /><br />Most customers purchase a complete, turnkey unit with a brand new truck chassis entirely from Spark. The price that Spark typically charges for the truck chassis is usually dealer invoice price, plus the customer keeps all applicable incentives and rebates. If you believe that you can obtain a new chassis for less money, feel free to have your local dealer drop ship the chassis to one of assembly centers.<br /><br /> FaqMaker http://sparktrucks.com/faq.html#How_much_usable_space_is_inside 2008-04-26T08:44:31.972-05:00 DAV models have enough space inside to serve as a remote broadcast booth, or become a rolling storefront window. The MUV models have a cavernous interior cargo capacity that is only diminished by six-inches on each side to accommodate the display units.<br /><br /> FaqMaker http://sparktrucks.com/faq.html#What_is_the_difference_between_ 2008-01-16T16:20:40.360-06:00 Spark invented the MUV, or "marketing utility vehicle", in 2006 as a response to growing inquiries from ordinary business owners who wanted to purchase trucks that could be used for general business delivery use, but could also display multi-image advertising. All Spark models are available in standard MUV configurations, with advertising display systems on two or three sides. MUV models offer internal walls that protect the multi-image ad display systems from shifting cargo inside the body.<br /> <br />DAV stands for "dedicated advertising vehicle". Spark has made DAVs for over six years. A DAV is designed to do just one thing -- get attention. The standard configuration of all Spark models is a multi-purpose MUV configuration, but all can be ordered in a DAV configuration, with see-through sides, and advertising systems on all four sides of the body.Since its display systems are exposed to the interior of the truck body, a DAV is not suitable for general delivery use. Shifting cargo could interfere with the operation of the scrolling mechanisms.<br /><br /> FaqMaker http://sparktrucks.com/faq.html#Advertising_sales_concerns 2007-09-17T09:56:23.936-05:00 FaqMaker http://sparktrucks.com/faq.html#Business__operations_issues 2007-09-17T09:56:18.440-05:00 FaqMaker http://sparktrucks.com/faq.html#Printing__designing_ads 2007-09-17T09:56:11.992-05:00 FaqMaker http://sparktrucks.com/faq.html#Scrolling_System_Questions 2007-09-17T09:55:47.168-05:00 FaqMaker http://sparktrucks.com/faq.html#Truck_Chassis_Questions 2007-09-17T09:55:39.336-05:00 FaqMaker http://sparktrucks.com/faq.html#General_Questions 2007-09-17T09:55:34.088-05:00 FaqMaker http://sparktrucks.com/faq.html#Doing_business_with_Spark 2007-09-17T09:55:27.912-05:00 FaqMaker http://sparktrucks.com/faq.html#Question1 2007-09-17T09:55:20.760-05:00 FaqMaker http://sparktrucks.com/faq.html#Customer_Support 2007-09-17T09:55:14.920-05:00 FaqMaker http://sparktrucks.com/faq.html#What_do_other_truck_owners_char 2007-09-17T09:54:11.648-05:00 The advertising rates vary widely.<br /><br />Some owners charge over $1000 per week for each individual ad (on just one side). Others give the space away as an incentive for their best clients in another business. The overall range of prices is from $50 per week for a single ad to over $1000 for the same space. It is highly dependent on the specific program that you offer the advertiser, the exposure that you can deliver and the sales ability of the person selling the advertising. Operating in a small city does not necessarily assure lower rates than larger markets.<br /><br />Many of our owners report that they charge between $400 - $600 per week for a single ad face (on only one side). This is typically for owners that do not display more than three ads per side at any given time.<br /><br /><br /> FaqMaker http://sparktrucks.com/faq.html#What_is_the_best_way_to_use_the 2007-09-17T02:26:15.506-05:00 Most Spark customers purchase the trucks to use as general purpose business vehicles. They use the multi-image advertising space to promote their own business or services. Many owners rent at least half the ad space to their best clients or sell advertising to other local businesses. <br /><br />There are many strategies that can help Spark truck owners turn their trucks into profit centers for their business. Refer to the Spark blog section of this web site for helpful information.<br /><br /> FaqMaker http://sparktrucks.com/faq.html#Will_Spark_mount_a_new_body_on_ 2007-07-07T00:00:00.000-05:00 Yes. You may be able to save a considerable amount of money by purchasing a gently used chassis. The Spark warranty will not cover your used chassis, and there may be an additional charge if a preowned chassis requires any repairs or prep work prior to the installation of the Spark body.<br /><br /> FaqMaker http://sparktrucks.com/faq.html#What_kind_of_computer_is_used_t 2007-07-07T00:00:00.000-05:00 All Spark scrolling systems incorporate a solid state logic board, but <u>there is no computer needed</u> to program or operate any of the Spark systems.<br /><br /> FaqMaker http://sparktrucks.com/faq.html#How_are_the_posters_affected_by 2007-07-07T00:00:00.000-05:00 All of Spark's scrolling display systems are designed for outdoor use and operate in all climate conditions.<br /><br /> FaqMaker http://sparktrucks.com/faq.html#Will_the_rear_display_continue_ 2007-07-07T00:00:00.000-05:00 Yes.<br /><br /> FaqMaker http://sparktrucks.com/faq.html#Are_spare_parts_available 2007-07-07T00:00:00.000-05:00 Yes.<br /><br /> FaqMaker http://sparktrucks.com/faq.html#Question4 2007-07-07T00:00:00.000-05:00 Spark's preferred lenders are leasing companies, and offer a choice of programs with terms that range from 24 months to 84 months. Some programs have a guaranteed lease-end-value, while others offer a guaranteed $1 purchase option at the end of the term. The $1 purchase option, while offered through a leasing company, is considered purchase financing for tax purposes, and the vehicle can be capitalized and depreciated.<br /><br />Check with your CPA or accountant to determine which option is best for you.<br /><br /> FaqMaker http://sparktrucks.com/faq.html#Does_Spark_offer_training_consu 2007-07-07T00:00:00.000-05:00 Yes. Call for details.<br /><br /> FaqMaker http://sparktrucks.com/faq.html#Do_the_trucks_come_with_GPS_sys 2007-07-07T00:00:00.000-05:00 GPS (global positioning satellite) systems are not standard, but are available. <br /><br /> FaqMaker http://sparktrucks.com/faq.html#Will_Spark_help_me_sell_the_ad_ 2007-07-07T00:00:00.000-05:00 No. If you are not eager to sell the advertising space yourself, look into building a relationship with agencies that specialize in brokering advertising on fleet vehicles. Media buying services and local advertising agencies may not be as helpful as you would hope. You will have a very limited amount of advertising space to sell, which may not make it worthwhile for agencies to recommend your ad space to their best clients. <br /><br />As a rule, if you seek to build a mobile advertising business, you must be capable of selling the ad space yourself. <br /><br /> FaqMaker