Clear Channel Communications announced today that they will be introducing a new mobile advertising unit. Garnering special operating permits, Clear Channel will be utilizing Segway (tm) Human Transporters (HT) to augment their radio advertising on the streets of San Francisco.

The CocaCola Corporation will be their first client to adopt the new technology.

Jack Mehov, Sr. V.P. of Marketing for the CocaCola Corporation was quoted as saying, "We are very excited about this move. We believe that along with our radio spots, the mobile advertising will have a noticeable impact on our success metrics."

For some time, individual advertisers such as ticket scalpers and street vendors, have been using Segway HT's to sell their wares. This is the first documented time that a major agency has adapted the technology for contracted usage.

In 2003, San Francisco adopted city-wide regulations against the usage of Segway HT's on city sidewalks. Clear Channel however, was able to garner special use permits to operate in specific areas, including, city parks and the oversize walkways of the Embarcadero.

Clear Channel has recognized Robert Sweeney, V.P. of Regional Advertising and the creator of the new mobile division. Sweeney said, "Clear Channel believes that innovations such as the Segway HT and other mediums represent the future of advertising as we know it. While Radio and print are still very effective, we see a great awareness opportunity for our clients."

As with all other great Bay Area inventions, the story behind mobile advertising is a unique one. Sweeney said he came up with the concept on the train while going to work one morning, "I saw individual street vendors using them and thought, if they can do it, why can't we.", he said.

Mark Mays, President and COO of Clear Channel is not known as a very emotional person. Upon seeing the drawings on a recent trip to the Bay Area, witnesses said they saw Mays grab Robert Sweeney and shake him vigorously stating, "You've got a great head on you, Sweeney!"

Segway stands to benefit quite well financially if it the local trial works out. Dean Kamen, Founder of Segway was quoted as saying, "This could be a very significant revenue stream for Segway. We are very anxious to see the results. We have always believed that the Segway would have a very wide reaching effect on urban inhabitants, but I don't think anyone saw this one coming."