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In the heart of Tallahassee, a unique automotive venture emerged in 2012, blending the legendary racing legacy of Dale Earnhardt Jr. with the business acumen of Rick Hendrick. The partnership brought two distinctive dealerships to life: Dale Earnhardt Jr. Chevrolet and Dale Earnhardt Jr. Buick GMC Cadillac, transforming the local car-buying experience in Florida’s capital city.
A Racing Icon Enters the Dealership World
The story begins with a strategic collaboration between two automotive powerhouses. Dale Earnhardt Jr., a nine-time most popular NASCAR driver, joined forces with Rick Hendrick, owner of Hendrick Motorsports and Hendrick Automotive Group. The two dealerships, located just a few miles apart, became a testament to their shared vision and passion for automotive excellence.| Dealership Details | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Dale Earnhardt Jr. Chevrolet | Located at 3127 W. Tennessee Street • Nearly 140,000 square feet • Approximately 300 new and pre-owned cars • More than 30 service bays |
| Dale Earnhardt Jr. Buick GMC Cadillac | Located at 1850 Capitol Circle NE • 42,000 square feet • Over 250 new and pre-owned cars • 22 service bays |
More Than Just a Dealership
These weren’t ordinary car stores. Dale Earnhardt Jr. brought a unique touch to the Tallahassee automotive landscape. The dealerships offered innovative amenities that set them apart:• Free shuttle service throughout the Tallahassee area • Manufacturer lifestyle boutiques • Children’s play areas • Complimentary Wi-Fi • Combined employment for over 175 local professionals
A Personal Connection
Earnhardt’s involvement wasn’t just a celebrity endorsement. He had a genuine passion for the automotive world, having worked as a mechanic in a Chevy store before his racing career. “I was a mechanic in a Chevy store before I started racing, and I’ve always loved General Motors products,” he shared during the dealership’s opening.🚗 Note: The dealerships were carefully selected, with Hendrick noting they wanted a location "centrally located between Daytona and Talladega".
Leadership and Community Commitment
The dealerships were managed by experienced professionals: • Mike Futrell - General Manager of Dale Earnhardt Jr. Chevrolet • Tim Moore - General Manager of Dale Earnhardt Jr. Buick GMC CadillacBoth leaders brought extensive automotive experience, ensuring the dealerships would maintain the high standards of the Earnhardt and Hendrick brands.
When did the Tallahassee dealerships open?
+The dealerships officially opened in August 2012, after acquiring the stores from longtime owner Larry Strom.
Who manages these dealerships?
+Hendrick Automotive Group manages the stores, with local leadership from Mike Futrell and Tim Moore.
Why Tallahassee?
+The location was strategically chosen as a central point between Daytona and Talladega, with a strong potential market and Dale Jr.'s existing fan base in Florida.
The Tallahassee dealerships represent more than just a business venture. They embody Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s commitment to his roots, his love for automotive excellence, and his ability to connect with communities beyond the racetrack. What began as a partnership with Rick Hendrick became a landmark moment in Tallahassee’s automotive history.