(October 9, 2014) WENTZVILLE, Mo. — More than 125 Chevrolet and GMC dealer representatives came to the new home of the Colorado and Canyon midsize pickup trucks Wednesday to personally take delivery of their first orders. Dozens of trucks, dealers, and VIPs converged on General Motors’ Wentzville Assembly plant as part of dealer drive-away and truck launch celebrations.

About 37 of the new trucks parked in the shape of a large GM logo on the Wentzville Assembly parking lot were photographed from a helicopter hovering above the plant to document the occasion.

“This is a great way to showcase our shared commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.” said Wentzville Assembly Plant Manager Nancy Laubenthal.

The Mid-America Chevy Dealers and St. Louis Area GMC dealers work closely with the plant to share perspective gleaned from mid-size pickup and full-size van customers.  

“Hosting a dealer drive away event helps build excitement and awareness for the trucks and those who build them,” said Kathy Federico, president of the Mid-America Chevy Dealers Local Marketing Association. “It’s a great opportunity to show off and highlight not only what the Colorado brings to St. Louis but also what the plant does for the local economy.”

Plant celebration activities included remarks from GM and UAW leaders and public officials.

Wentzville Assembly currently employs approximately 2,600 hourly and salaried workers and operates two production shifts. The recently announced third shift will add 750 workers and begin in early 2015. The plant also produces the Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana full-size vans.