Waco ‘Motor Mile’ beeps for Beetle

WACO – “Motor Mile” is Waco’s most concentrated collection of new car dealerships. The so-called “Motor Mile” actually stretches farther than a mile, with shiny cars lining the loop between US Highway 84 and Interstate 35.

The Volkswagen Beetle is making a beeline for Waco, as are the Jetta, Passat and Tiguan.

Georgetown-based Hewlett Volkswagen has confirmed it will place a VW dealership at West Loop 340 and Exchange Pkwy., on Waco’s growing “Motor Mile” in far West Waco.

It will begin selling out of a temporary facility within 60 to 90 days, and hopes to open its new store in 12 to 18 months.

“We were intrigued by the Waco market,” John Chauvin, general manager of Hewlett Volkswagen, said. “It has economic stability, Baylor University, a sizable medical-related presence. Most important of all, it needs a Volkswagen franchise.”

The German-based carmaker designated Waco as an “open port,” meaning it had no Volkswagen representation. The estimated $3 million to $4 million investment should erect a 20,000-sf dealership on acreage next to Waco Hyundai.

“It will be what we call a ‘white frame design,’ which is the newest and freshest prototype,” Chauvin said. The store likely will employ 25 to 50 people.

Volkswagen is taking its place on what has become Waco’s most concentrated collection of new car dealerships. The so-called “Motor Mile” actually stretches farther than a mile, with shiny cars lining the loop between US Hwy. 84 and I-35.