KNOXVILLE, Tenn. -- ABC Companies and Premier Transportation of Knoxville have announced that Premier has become an authorized service facility for the new-coach brands sold by ABC.

"Were bucking the trend," said Ashley Cornell, ABC vice president of customer care.

"At a time when manufacturers are tempted to scale back on support, were looking for ways to serve our customers better," said Cornell. "Including Premier, with (its) first rate staff, facility and location in ABCs service network is a huge plus for our customers in Georgia, Tennessee, Kentucky and the Carolinas."

Jim Stratton, Premiers general manager, noted that as a coach operator, Premiers staff understands how critical it is to have quick, reliable repairs and service.

"We have three bays dedicated to serving customers. We offer everything from bus wash and lavatory service, to body and chassis work. Our technicians are trained in all areas of repair, are ASE certified for air conditioning repairs, and have attended ABCs service schools.

"We have people who are USDOT certified for brake work and we have the technology and expertise to diagnose and repair Cummins, Detroit Diesel and Allison problems, as well as troubleshooting multiplex electrical systems," Stratton said.

Premier will maintain a stock of Michelin and Firestone tires and can arrange emergency towing. There is a lounge for drivers while their coaches are serviced.

Premier will be acting as a sublet warranty facility for ABC Companies and authorized to perform warranty work on GCA M1235 and 3035RE midsize buses, as well as Van Hool motorcoaches.

Although customers will pay for repairs on site, Premier personnel are trained in ABCs warranty policy and will be able to offer assurance as to what repairs will be reimbursed.

The Premier facility is at 1500 Breda Drive in Knoxville, off Interstate 640 and close to the intersection of I-275 and I-75. It is open normal business hours Monday through Friday, with after-hours emergency service available.