Buda, TX (October 2, 2009) – Vanguard Truck Center of Austin, a member of the Vanguard Truck Centers dealer group, today marked the opening of a $4.5 million state-of-the-art truck center facility in Buda, TX.

The group, which distributes Mack Trucks, Inc. and Volvo Trucks North America products, also owns facilities in Atlanta, Houston, Tucson, and Phoenix. The new location outside of Austin will operate as a full service truck center, represent the Mack and Volvo product lines, and serve as a parts and service center for Norwood Equipment of Houston. Vanguard has a commitment to diagnosing customer service problems within 2 hours, and the new facility is designed for such quick response, with a strong emphasis on driver comfort and convenience.

“We’re appealing to over-the-road drivers, and whether they’re here for preventative maintenance, elective repairs, or necessary service, we offer a quick turn-around time on their trucks,” said Tom Ewing, President of Vanguard Truck Centers. “We know they need to get back on the road quickly, but while they’re waiting, we’ll make them as comfortable as possible – they can do laundry, take a shower, or just relax in the lounge.”

“This state-of-the-art facility is another example of the kind of investment in world-class service that’s been going on in our distribution network over the past several years,” said Scott Kress, Volvo senior vice president of sales. “Volvo customers expect support where and when they need it across the U.S. and Canada, and that’s exactly what we’re providing through partnerships with dealers like the Vanguard group.”

“The fact that this facility is opening now, in such a difficult economy and truck market, speaks volumes about the commitment of everyone in the Mack family,” said Kevin Flaherty, Mack senior vice president, sales. “Rather than folding up our tents until the storm passes, we’re out there doing what it takes to take care of our customers.”

In addition to satisfying the needs of the trucking industry, the strategic placement of the new facility takes into account needs of the Austin community.

“We chose this site because of its convenient access to the toll road, and the fact that it is located directly south of the toll road access, allowing truck drivers to take an alternate route around Austin instead of using the already heavily congested I-35 downtown corridor,” said Vanguard’s Ewing.

An Open House event held at the facility today included food from a local favorite – Salt Lick BBQ – as well as raffle prizes and tours. On display were two heavy-duty trucks – one a Mack and the other a Volvo – both meeting the new EPA emissions standards going into effect next year.