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AutoNation USA Truck Center Debuts in Houston

16 June 1998

AutoNation USA Truck Center Debuts in Houston

     Nation's Largest Automotive Retailer Extends Mega-Selection Concept
         to Light Trucks, Sport Utility Vehicles, Vans and Mini-Vans

    HOUSTON, June 16 -- Extending the successful rollout of its
used car megastores across the country, AutoNation USA announced the debut of
the first AutoNation USA Truck Center.  The center, located in North Houston,
will stock a mega-selection of used light trucks, sport utility vehicles, vans
and mini-vans.
    "Just as our megastore concept was based on consumer feedback that buying
a used car should be easier and more pleasant, the Truck Center concept also
is a reflection of consumer trends," said Mike Maroone, president of
AutoNation USA's automotive retail group.  "The American Automobile
Manufacturers Association reports the two best-selling passenger vehicles in
the U.S. last year were both pickup trucks.  In addition, trucks, vans and
sport utility vehicles make up about 40 percent of private vehicles.  The
AutoNation USA Truck Center makes it even easier to buy these types of
pre-owned vehicles by combining great selection and truck-specific services in
a one-stop truck shop."
    The AutoNation USA Truck Center, located on Interstate 45 North at West
Road in North Houston, will offer an inventory of up to 300 vehicles, a
Service Center and truck, SUV and van accessories in one location.  The store
will feature the same commitment to a mega-selection of quality used vehicles
offered at everyday low prices in a no-haggle shopping environment that is the
trademark of the company's used car megastores.  The store and service center
will employ approximately 50 people.
    "Buyers will continue to find a wide variety of cars and trucks at our
other three used car megastores in Houston, but the Truck Center allows us to
target the truck buyer," said Maroone.  "Statistics show today's truck buyers
increasingly are young people and baby-boomers who want larger vehicles for
everyday family use or recreational transportation.  The popularity of these
vehicles is likely to continue as manufacturers incorporate more and more
car-like features, such as CD players and leather seats, making them more
comfortable and driver-friendly."
    AutoNation USA is the nation's largest automotive retailer with
28 AutoNation USA used vehicle megastores and nearly 300 franchised new
vehicle dealerships across the country.  The company makes buying and owning a
vehicle simple and easy for consumers by offering a mega-selection of Quality
Certified vehicles in a low-price, no-hassle shopping environment.  Electronic
kiosks allow guests to browse the store's entire inventory while professional
sales guides are available to help facilitate the vehicle buying process.  The
company is a leader in customer service and quality, with warranties and
money-back guarantees standard with every vehicle sold.
    AutoNation USA is a division of Florida-based Republic Industries
.  The company currently operates ten AutoNation USA megastores in
Texas including Grand Prairie, Irving, Lewisville, Mesquite, North Dallas, San
Antonio and four in Houston, as well as 32 franchised new vehicle dealerships.