WARRENVILLE, Ill. — International Truck and Engine Corporation announced a unique three-year purchase agreement with longtime customer Ward Trucking Corp. based out of Altoona, Pa.

The partnership involves the participation of preferred International suppliers, including Cummins Inc., and calls for Ward Trucking Corp. to replace older vehicles and expand its fleet with the purchase of up to 500 International vehicles by 2007.

According to this new partnership agreement, Ward Trucking Corp’s fleet will continue to be composed entirely of International trucks. Ward already has placed the first order within the agreement, an order that includes International 9200i model 6X4 sleeper tractors and International 8600 model 6X4 day cab tractors that will be equipped with Cummins heavy-duty diesel engines. The order also includes International 4400 Mid Cab 4×2 tractors and International 4300 trucks that are equipped with mid-range International diesel engines.

"Our company was founded on trust — our customers expect us to perform within demanding, time-sensitive delivery schedules," comments Michael Ward, executive vice president of Ward Trucking Corp. "To deliver on that promise, we have to be confident in the reliability and quality of our truck fleet. International has been an excellent partner in our successful growth to this point, and our new agreement is proof of a continued commitment from both companies."

Ward Trucking Corp. operates more than 550 power units throughout Maryland, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Virginia. One of the region’s largest commercial carriers, Ward has experienced steady, significant growth in its business throughout its history. International has the broadest distribution system in the industry, featuring a nationwide network of more than 1,000 authorized dealer locations. International executives emphasize their company’s ability to work seamlessly with Ward across this dealer network as a key attribute of the companies’ relationship.

"Our partnership with Ward Trucking relies on one of our strongest assets — the industry-leading network of International dealers," said Jordan Feiger, vice president and general manager, Heavy Vehicle Center, International Truck and Engine Corporation. “This expanded agreement is additional proof of our ongoing commitment to building a strong leadership position in the Class 8 business, and extends our promise to deliver industry leading quality to each and every customer."

For more information, visit www.InternationalDelivers.com