The Federal Highway Administration initiated the project in 1994. The goal was to develop, test, and implement a second-generation police vehicle that would demonstrate the feasibility of the system, showcase the technologies, and provide system design recommendations as well as prototype systems and technologies that could be quickly transformed into commercial projects. A Technical Working Group and an Industry Working Group were formed. ALERT uses a color touch-screen controller that communicates with all vehicle components, including the overhead lights and siren, radar, video multiplexor, and global positioning system. The system also provides for data storage in the vehicle and digital data communication with data units outside and vehicle and the base station. Remote data units transfer data from the police officer to the vehicle. Pen-based computers include automated forms. The system uses digital wireless communications. The ALERT project aims to provide the mobile core system to law enforcement at about the same price as a high-end laptop computer. The ALERT technology is currently being tested and evaluated. Photographs and sources of further information