10-K

Table of Contents

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-K

ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)

OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2016

Commission file number 0-20797

RUSH ENTERPRISES, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Texas	74-1733016
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)	(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
555 IH 35 South, New Braunfels, TX	78130
(Address of principal executive offices)	(Zip Code)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (830) 302-5200

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Class A and Class B Common Stock, $.01 par value	NASDAQ Global Select Market
Title of each class	Name of each exchange on which registered

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:

None

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.                                         Yes ☑          No ☐

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act.                                   Yes ☐          No ☑

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.

Yes ☑          No ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).

Yes ☑          No ☐

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

Large accelerated filer ☑	Accelerated filer ☐	Non-accelerated filer ☐	Smaller Reporting Company ☐
		(Do not check if a smaller reporting company.)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).                                                  Yes ☐          No ☑

The aggregate market value of common stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant as of June 30, 2016 was approximately $766,151,533 based upon the last sales price on June 30, 2016 on The NASDAQ Global Select Market^SM of $21.55 for the registrant’s Class A Common Stock and $20.79 for the registrant’s Class B Common Stock. Shares of Common Stock held by each executive officer and director and by each shareholder affiliated with a director or an executive officer have been excluded from this calculation because such persons may be deemed to be affiliates. This determination of affiliate status is not necessarily a conclusive determination for other purposes.

The registrant had 30,355,636 shares Class A Common Stock and 9,060,365 shares of Class B Common Stock outstanding on February 22, 2017.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

Portions of registrant’s definitive proxy statement for the registrant’s 2017 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission not later than May 1, 2017, are incorporated by reference into Part III of this Form 10-K.

RUSH ENTERPRISES, INC.

Index to Form 10-K

Year ended December 31, 2016

		Page No.
Part I
Item 1	Business	1
Item 1A	Risk Factors	14
Item 1B	Unresolved Staff Comments	20
Item 2	Properties	20
Item 3	Legal Proceedings	21
Item 4	Mine Safety Disclosures	21
Part II
Item 5	Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Shareholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities	22
Item 6	Selected Financial Data	24
Item 7	Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations	25
Item 7A	Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk	39
Item 8	Financial Statements and Supplementary Data	40
Item 9	Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure	73
Item 9A	Controls and Procedures	73
Item 9B	Other Information	74
Part III
Item 10	Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance	75
Item 11	Executive Compensation	75
Item 12	Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Shareholder Matters	75
Item 13	Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence	76
Item 14	Principal Accountant Fees and Services	76
Part IV
Item 15	Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules	77

NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Certain statements contained in this Form 10-K (or otherwise made by the Company or on the Company’s behalf from time to time in other reports, filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), news releases, conferences, website postings or otherwise) that are not statements of historical fact constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), and Section 21E of the Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), notwithstanding that such statements are not specifically identified. Forward-looking statements include statements about the Company’s financial position, business strategy and plans and objectives of management of the Company for future operations. These forward-looking statements reflect the best judgments of the Company about the future events and trends based on the beliefs of the Company’s management as well as assumptions made by and information currently available to the Company’s management. Use of the words “may,” “should,” “continue,” “plan,” “potential,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect” and “intend” and words or phrases of similar import, as they relate to the Company or its subsidiaries or Company management, are intended to identify forward-looking statements but are not the exclusive means of identifying such statements. Forward-looking statements reflect our current view of the Company with respect to future events and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in such statements. Please read Item 1A. “Risk Factors” for a discussion of certain of those risks. Other unknown or unpredictable factors could also have a material adverse effect on future results. Although the Company believes that its expectations are reasonable as of the date of this Form 10-K, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. The Company does not intend to update or revise any forward-looking statements unless securities laws require it to do so, and the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly release any revisions to forward-looking statements, whether because of new information, future events or otherwise.

NOTE REGARDING TRADEMARKS COMMONLY USED IN THE COMPANY’S FILINGS

Peterbilt^® is a registered trademark of Peterbilt Motors Company. PACCAR^® is a registered trademark of PACCAR, Inc. PacLease^® is a registered trademark of PACCAR Leasing Corporation. Navistar^® is a registered trademark of Navistar International Corporation. International^® is a registered trademark of Navistar International Transportation Corp. Idealease is a registered trademark of Idealease, Inc. aka Idealease of North America, Inc. Blue Bird^® is a registered trademark of Blue Bird Investment Corporation. IC Bus^® is a registered trademark of IC Bus, LLC. Fuso^® is a registered trademark of Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation. Hino^® is a registered trademark of Hino Motors, Ltd. Isuzu^® is a registered trademark of Isuzu Motors Limited. Ford Motor Credit Company^® is a registered trademark of Ford Motor Company. Ford^® is a registered trademark of Ford Motor Company. SAP^® is a registered trademark of SAP Aktiengesellschaft. IBM^® is a registered trademark of International Business Machines Corporation. This report contains additional trade names or trademarks of other companies. Our use of such trade names or trademarks should not imply any endorsement or relationship with such companies.

PART I

Item 1. Business

References herein to “the Company,” “Rush Enterprises,” “Rush,” “we,” “our” or “us” mean Rush Enterprises, Inc., a Texas corporation, and its subsidiaries unless the context requires otherwise.

Access to Company Information

We electronically file annual reports, quarterly reports, proxy statements and other reports and information statements with the SEC. You may read and copy any of the materials that we have filed with the SEC at the SEC’s Public Reference Room at 100 F Street NE, Washington, DC 20549. You may obtain information about the Public Reference Room by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. Our filings are also available to you on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.

We make certain of our SEC filings available, free of charge, through our website, including annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K and all amendments to these reports. These filings are available as soon as reasonably practicable after such material is electronically filed with, or furnished to, the SEC. Our website address is www.rushenterprises.com. The information contained on our website, or on other websites linked to our website, is not incorporated into this report or otherwise made part of this report.

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General

Rush Enterprises, Inc. was incorporated in Texas in 1965 and consists of one reportable segment, the Truck Segment. We conduct business through certain of our subsidiaries. Our principal offices are located at 555 IH 35 South, Suite 500, New Braunfels, Texas 78130.

We are a full-service, integrated retailer of commercial vehicles and related services. The Truck Segment includes the Company’s operation of a nationwide network of commercial vehicle dealerships under the name “Rush Truck Centers.” Each Rush Truck Center is a franchised dealership for commercial vehicles manufactured by Peterbilt, International, Hino, Ford, Isuzu, Mitsubishi Fuso, IC Bus or Blue Bird. Through our strategically located network of Rush Truck Centers, we provide one-stop service for the needs of our commercial vehicle customers, including retail sales of new and used commercial vehicles, aftermarket parts sales, service and repair facilities, financing, leasing and rental, and insurance products.

Our Rush Truck Centers are principally located in high traffic areas throughout the United States. Since commencing operations as a Peterbilt heavy-duty truck dealer in 1966, we have grown to operate over 100 Rush Truck Centers in 21 states.

Our business strategy consists of providing solutions to the commercial vehicle industry through our network of commercial vehicle dealerships. We offer an integrated approach to meeting customer needs by providing service, parts and collision repair in addition to new and used commercial vehicle sales and leasing, plus financial services, vehicle upfitting, CNG fuel systems, vehicle telematics products, chrome accessories and tires. We intend to continue to implement our business strategy, reinforce customer loyalty and remain a market leader by continuing to develop our Rush Truck Centers as we expand our product offerings and extend our dealership network through strategic acquisitions of new locations and opening new dealerships in our existing areas of operations.

Rush Truck Centers. Our Rush Truck Centers are located in Alabama, Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Missouri, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas, Utah and Virginia. The following chart reflects our franchises and parts, service and body shop operations by location as of March 1, 2017:

Rush Truck Center Location	Commercial Vehicle Franchise(s)	Truck Sales	Parts and Service	Body Shop
Alabama
Mobile	Peterbilt	Yes	Yes	Yes
Arizona
Flagstaff	Peterbilt	No	Yes	No
Phoenix	Peterbilt, Hino	Yes	Yes	Yes
Tucson	Peterbilt, Hino	Yes	Yes	No
Yuma	Peterbilt	Yes	Yes	No
California
Fontana Heavy-Duty	Peterbilt	Yes	Yes	Yes
Fontana Medium-Duty	Peterbilt, Hino, Isuzu	Yes	Yes	No
Fontana Vocational	None	No	Yes	No
Long Beach	Peterbilt	No	Yes	No
Pico Rivera	Peterbilt	Yes	Yes	Yes
San Diego	Peterbilt, Hino	Yes	Yes	No
Sylmar	Peterbilt	Yes	Yes	No
Whittier	Ford, Isuzu	Yes	Yes	No
Colorado
Denver	Peterbilt, Ford, Isuzu	Yes	Yes	Yes
Denver Medium-Duty	Ford, Isuzu	Yes	Yes	No
Greeley	Peterbilt	Yes	Yes	No
Pueblo	Peterbilt	Yes	Yes	No

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Rush Truck Center Location	Commercial Vehicle Franchise(s)	Truck Sales	Parts and Service	Body Shop
Florida
Haines City	Peterbilt	Yes	Yes	Yes
Jacksonville	Peterbilt, Hino	Yes	Yes	No
Lake City	Peterbilt	Yes	Yes	No
Orlando Heavy-Duty	Peterbilt, Isuzu	Yes	Yes	No
Orlando Light & Medium-Duty	Ford	Yes	Yes	No
Orlando South	Isuzu	Yes	Yes	No
Tampa	Peterbilt	Yes	Yes	No
Georgia
Atlanta	International, Hino, Isuzu, IC Bus	Yes	Yes	No
Atlanta Bus Center	IC Bus	Yes	Yes	Yes
Blackshear	International, IC Bus	Yes	Yes	No
Augusta North	International, IC Bus	Yes	Yes	No
Columbus	International, Isuzu, IC Bus	Yes	Yes	No
Doraville	International, Hino, Isuzu, IC Bus	Yes	Yes	No
Gainesville	International, IC Bus	Yes	Yes	No
Macon	International	Yes	Yes	No
Smyrna	International, Hino, Isuzu, IC Bus	Yes	Yes	No
Tifton	International, IC Bus	Yes	Yes	No
Valdosta	International	Yes	Yes	No
Idaho
Boise	International, Hino, IC Bus	Yes	Yes	Yes
Idaho Falls	International, IC Bus	Yes	Yes	Yes
Lewiston	International	Yes	Yes	No
Twin Falls	International	Yes	Yes	No
Illinois
Bloomington	International, Hino	Yes	Yes	No
Carol Stream	International	Yes	Yes	No
Champaign	International	Yes	Yes	Yes
Chicago	International	Yes	Yes	Yes
Effingham	International	Yes	Yes	Yes
Huntley	International	Yes	Yes	No
Joliet	International	Yes	Yes	No
Quincy	International	Yes	Yes	No
Springfield East	International	Yes	Yes	Yes
Springfield West	International	Yes	Yes	Yes
Indiana
Gary	International	Yes	Yes	No
Indianapolis	International	Yes	Yes	Yes
Kansas
Kansas City	Hino, Isuzu	Yes	Yes	No
Kentucky
Bowling Green	Peterbilt	Yes	Yes	No
Missouri
St. Peters	International	Yes	Yes	No
St. Louis	International	Yes	Yes	No
Nevada
Las Vegas	Peterbilt	Yes	Yes	No
New Mexico
Albuquerque	Peterbilt	Yes	Yes	Yes
Farmington	Peterbilt	No	Yes	No
Las Cruces	Peterbilt	Yes	Yes	No

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Rush Truck Center Location	Commercial Vehicle Franchise(s)	Truck Sales	Parts and Service	Body Shop
North Carolina
Asheville	International	Yes	Yes	No
Charlotte	International, Hino, Isuzu	Yes	Yes	Yes
Hickory	International	Yes	Yes	No
Ohio
Akron	International, IC Bus	Yes	Yes	No
Cincinnati	International, IC Bus, Isuzu, Ford, Mitsubishi Fuso	Yes	Yes	Yes
Cleveland	International, IC Bus	Yes	Yes	No
Columbus	International, IC Bus, Isuzu(1)	Yes	Yes	No
Dayton	International, IC Bus, Isuzu	Yes	Yes	No
Lima	International, IC Bus	Yes	Yes	No
Springfield	International	No	Yes	No
Oklahoma
Ardmore	Peterbilt	Yes	Yes	No
Oklahoma City	Peterbilt, Hino, Ford, Isuzu	Yes	Yes	Yes
Tulsa	Peterbilt, Hino	Yes	Yes	Yes
Tennessee
Nashville	Peterbilt	Yes	Yes	Yes
Texas
Abilene	Peterbilt	Yes	Yes	No
Amarillo	Peterbilt	Yes	Yes	No
Austin	Peterbilt, Hino, Isuzu, Blue Bird, Micro Bird, Elkhart	Yes	Yes	No
Brownsville	Peterbilt, Elkhart	Yes	Yes	No
College Station	Peterbilt	Yes	Yes	No
Corpus Christi	Peterbilt, Hino, Isuzu, Blue Bird, Elkhart	Yes	Yes	No
Cotulla	Peterbilt	No	Yes	No
Dalhart	Peterbilt	No	Yes	No
Dallas Heavy-Duty	Peterbilt, Blue Bird, Micro Bird, Elkhart	Yes	Yes	Yes
Dallas Medium-Duty	Peterbilt, Hino, Blue Bird, Micro Bird, Elkhart	Yes	Yes	No
Dallas Light & Medium-Duty	Ford, Isuzu	Yes	Yes	No
El Paso	Peterbilt, Hino, Isuzu	Yes	Yes	Yes
Fort Worth	Peterbilt, Blue Bird, Micro Bird, Elkhart	Yes	Yes	No
Houston	Peterbilt, Hino, Blue Bird, Micro Bird, Elkhart	Yes	Yes	Yes
Houston Bus Center	Peterbilt, Hino, Blue Bird, Micro Bird, Elkhart	Yes	Yes	No
Houston Medium-Duty	Hino	Yes	Yes	No
Laredo	Peterbilt, Blue Bird, Micro Bird, Elkhart	Yes	Yes	Yes
Lubbock	Peterbilt	Yes	Yes	No
Lufkin	Peterbilt, Blue Bird, Micro Bird, Elkhart	Yes	Yes	Yes
Odessa	Peterbilt	Yes	Yes	No
Pharr	Peterbilt, Hino, Blue Bird, Micro Bird, Elkhart	Yes	Yes	Yes
San Antonio	Peterbilt, Hino, Blue Bird, Micro Bird, Elkhart	Yes	Yes	Yes
San Antonio Bus	Blue Bird, Micro Bird, Elkhart	Yes	Yes	Yes

(1) The physical location of our Isuzu dealership is in our Rush Truck Leasing - Columbus location.

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Rush Truck Center Location	Commercial Vehicle Franchise(s)	Truck Sales	Parts and Service	Body Shop
Sealy	Peterbilt, Isuzu, Blue Bird, Micro Bird, Elkhart	Yes	Yes	No
Texarkana	Peterbilt, Hino, Isuzu, Blue Bird, Micro Bird, Elkhart	Yes	Yes	No
Tyler	Peterbilt, Blue Bird, Micro Bird, Elkhart	Yes	Yes	No
Waco	Peterbilt, Hino, Isuzu, Blue Bird, Micro Bird, Elkhart	Yes	Yes	No
Utah
Ogden	International, IC Bus	Yes	Yes	No
Salt Lake City	International, IC Bus, Mitsubishi Fuso	Yes	Yes	Yes
Springville	International, Mitsubishi Fuso	Yes	Yes	No
St. George	International, Mitsubishi Fuso	Yes	Yes	No
Virginia
Chester	International	Yes	Yes	No
Fredericksburg	International	Yes	Yes	No
Richmond	International	Yes	Yes	Yes

We also have dedicated, non-franchised used commercial vehicle sales facilities in Willowbrook, Illinois, Dallas, Texas and Orlando, Florida.

Leasing and Rental Services. Through certain of our Rush Truck Centers and several stand-alone Rush Truck Leasing Centers, we provide a broad line of product selections for lease or rent, including Class 4, Class 5, Class 6, Class 7 and Class 8 trucks, heavy-duty cranes and refuse vehicles. Our lease and rental fleets are offered on a daily, monthly or long-term basis. Substantially all of our long-term leases also contain a service provision, whereby we agree to service the vehicle through the life of the lease. The following chart reflects our leasing franchises by location:

Rush Truck Leasing Location	Franchise	Standalone or in a Rush Truck Center
Alabama
Birmingham	PacLease	Standalone
Arizona
Phoenix	PacLease	Standalone
California
Fontana	PacLease	Standalone
Pico Rivera	PacLease	Standalone
San Diego	PacLease	In RTC
Sylmar	PacLease	In RTC
Colorado
Denver	PacLease	In RTC
Florida
Orlando	PacLease	Standalone
Tampa	PacLease	In RTC
Jacksonville	PacLease	Standalone
Georgia
Macon	Idealease	In RTC
Idaho
Boise	Idealease	In RTC
Idaho Falls	Idealease	In RTC
Illinois
Carol Stream	Idealease	In RTC
Chicago	Idealease	In RTC
Effingham	Idealease	In RTC
Huntley	Idealease	In RTC
Joliet	Idealease	In RTC
Springfield	Idealease	In RTC

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Rush Truck Leasing Location	Franchise	Standalone or in a Rush Truck Center
Indiana
Indianapolis	Idealease	In RTC
Gary	Idealease	In RTC
Missouri
St. Louis	Idealease	In RTC
St. Peters	Idealease	In RTC
North Carolina
Charlotte	Idealease	In RTC
New Mexico
Albuquerque	PacLease	Standalone
Nevada
Las Vegas	PacLease	In RTC
Ohio
Cincinnati	Idealease	Standalone
Cleveland	Idealease	Standalone
Columbus	Idealease	In RTC
Dayton	Idealease	In RTC
Oklahoma
Oklahoma City	PacLease	In RTC
Tennessee
Nashville	PacLease	In RTC
Texas
Austin	PacLease	Standalone
El Paso	PacLease	In RTC
Fort Worth	PacLease	In RTC
Houston	PacLease	Standalone
Lubbock	PacLease	In RTC
San Antonio	PacLease	In RTC
Tyler	PacLease	Standalone
Virginia
Richmond	Idealease	Standalone
Norfolk	Idealease	Standalone
Utah
Salt Lake City	Idealease	Standalone

In addition to the locations in the above table, Rush Truck Leasing also provides full-service maintenance on customers’ vehicles at several of our customers’ facilities.

Financial and Insurance Products. At our Rush Truck Centers, we offer third-party financing to assist customers in purchasing new and used commercial vehicles. Additionally, we sell, as agent through our insurance agency, a complete line of property and casualty insurance, including collision and liability insurance on commercial vehicles, cargo insurance and credit life insurance.

Other Businesses. Perfection Equipment offers installation of equipment, equipment repair, parts installation, and paint and body repair at our location in Oklahoma City. Perfection Equipment specializes in up-fitting trucks used by oilfield service providers and other specialized service providers.

World Wide Tires stores operate in two locations in Texas. World Wide Tires primarily sells tires for use on commercial vehicles.

Custom Vehicle Solutions operates at locations in Denton, Texas and Chambersburg, Pennsylvania. Custom Vehicle Solutions provides new vehicle pre-delivery inspections, truck modifications, natural gas fuel system installations, body and chassis upfitting and component installation.

Momentum Fuel Technologies manufactures compressed natural gas fuel systems and related component parts for commercial vehicles at its facility in Roanoke, Texas.

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Industry

See Part II, Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations – Industry” for a description of our industry and the markets in which we operate.

Our Business Strategy

Operating Strategy. Our strategy is to operate an integrated, nationwide dealership network that provides service solutions to the commercial vehicle industry. Our strategy includes the following key elements:

● One-Stop Centers. We have developed our commercial vehicle dealerships as “one-stop centers” that offer an integrated approach to meeting customer needs. We provide service, parts and collision repair, new and used commercial vehicles sales, leasing and rental, plus financial services including finance and insurance. We believe that this full-service strategy also helps to mitigate cyclical economic fluctuations because the parts and service sales at our dealerships generally tend to be less volatile than our new and used commercial vehicle sales.

● Aftermarket Services. We refer to our parts, service and body shop operations collectively as “Aftermarket Services”. Our aftermarket capabilities include a wide range of services and products, including a fleet of mobile service units, mobile technicians who work in our customers’ facilities, a proprietary line of parts and accessories, factory-certified service for alternative fuel vehicles and assembly service for specialized bodies and equipment. We believe that offering a variety of aftermarket products and services at our dealerships allows us to meet the expanding needs of our customers and leverage our dealership facilities to offer more services.

● Branding Program. We employ a branding program for our new vehicle dealerships through distinctive signage and uniform marketing programs to take advantage of our existing name recognition and to communicate the standardized high quality of our products and reliability of our services throughout our dealership network.

● Management by Dealership Units. At each of our dealerships, we operate one or more of the following departments: new commercial vehicle sales, used commercial vehicle sales, financial services, parts, service or body shop. Our general managers measure and manage the operations of each dealership according to the specific departments operating at that location. We believe that this system enhances the profitability of all aspects of a dealership and increases our overall operating margins. Operating goals for each department at each of our dealerships are established annually and managers are rewarded for performance.

Growth Strategy. Through our expansion and acquisition initiatives, we have grown to operate a large, multistate, full-service network of commercial vehicle dealerships. As described below, we intend to continue to grow our business by expanding our product and service offerings, through acquisitions in new geographic areas and by opening new dealerships in our existing areas of responsibility.

● Expansion of Product and Service Offerings. We intend to continue to expand our product lines within our dealerships by adding product categories and service capabilities that are both complementary to our existing product lines and well suited to our operating model. We believe that there are many additional product and service offerings that would complement our primary product lines. We will continue to take advantage of technological advances to the vehicles we sell that provide us with the opportunity to offer vehicle owners more aftermarket options and the ability to maximize the performance of vehicles in their fleets using telematics and other technologies.

● Expansion Into New Geographic Areas. We plan to continue to expand our dealership network by acquiring dealerships in areas of the U.S. where we do not already have dealerships. We believe the geographic diversity of our Rush Truck Center network has significantly expanded our customer base while reducing the effects of local economic cycles.

● Open New Rush Truck Centers in Existing Areas of Operation. We continually evaluate opportunities to increase our market presence by adding new Rush Truck Centers to underserved markets within our current areas of operation.

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Management of Our Dealerships

Rush Truck Centers

Our Rush Truck Centers are responsible for sales of new and used commercial vehicles, as well as related parts and services.

Aftermarket Services. Revenues from Aftermarket Services accounted for approximately $1,332.4 million, or 31.6%, of our total revenues for 2016, and 67.0% of our gross profit. The parts and service business enhances our sales and service functions and is a source of recurring revenue. Rush Truck Centers carry a wide variety of commercial vehicle parts in inventory. Certain Rush Truck Centers also feature fully equipped service and body shop facilities, the combination and configuration of which varies by location, capable of handling a broad range of repairs on most commercial vehicles. Each Rush Truck Center is a warranty service center for the commercial vehicle manufacturers represented at that location and most are also authorized service centers for other vehicle component manufacturers, including Cummins, Eaton, Caterpillar and Allison. We have approximately 2,400 service and body shop bays throughout our Rush Truck Center network. We also have mobile service technicians and technicians who staff certain of our customers’ facilities.

Our service departments perform warranty and non-warranty repairs on commercial vehicles. The cost of warranty work is generally reimbursed by the applicable manufacturer at retail commercial rates. Warranty related parts and service revenues accounted for approximately $130.4 million, or 3.1%, of our total revenues for 2016. Additionally, we provide a wide array of services, including assembly service for specialized truck bodies and truck mounted equipment. Our goal is to provide our customers any service that they need related to their commercial vehicles.

As part of our leasing and rental operations, we also enter into contracts to provide full-service maintenance on some customers’ vehicles. We had 1,233 vehicles under contract maintenance as of December 31, 2016, and 1,345 vehicles under contract maintenance as of December 31, 2015. The full-service maintenance revenues and retail service revenues are included as parts and service revenues on the Consolidated Statements of Income.

New Commercial Vehicle Sales.   New commercial vehicle sales represent the largest portion of our revenues, accounting for approximately $2,350.6 million, or 55.8%, of our total revenues in 2016. Of this total, new Class 8 heavy-duty truck sales accounted for approximately $1,455.8 million, or 34.5%, of our total revenues for 2016, and 61.9% of our new commercial vehicle revenues for 2016.

Our Rush Truck Centers that sell new and used Class 8 heavy-duty trucks may also sell medium-duty and light-duty commercial vehicles. Certain Rush Truck Centers sell medium-duty commercial vehicles manufactured by Peterbilt, Hino, Isuzu, Ford, International or Mitsubishi Fuso and buses manufactured by Blue Bird, IC BUS or Elkhart and light-duty commercial vehicles manufactured by Ford (see Part I, Item 1, “General – Rush Truck Centers” for information on which brands we sell at each Rush Truck Center). New medium-duty commercial vehicle sales, excluding new bus sales, accounted for approximately $714.8 million, or 17.0%, of our total revenues for 2016, and 30.4% of our new commercial vehicle revenues for 2016. New light-duty commercial vehicle sales accounted for approximately $63.6 million, or 1.5%, of our total revenues for 2016, and 2.7% of our new commercial vehicle revenues for 2016. New bus sales accounted for approximately $96.9 million, or 2.3%, of our total revenues for 2016, and 4.1% of our new commercial vehicle revenues for 2016.

A significant portion of our new commercial vehicle sales are to fleet customers. Because of the size and geographic scope of our Rush Truck Center network, our strong relationships with our fleet customers and our ability to handle large quantities of used commercial vehicle trade-ins, we are able to successfully market and sell to fleet customers nationwide. We believe that we have a competitive advantage over most other dealerships in that we can absorb multi-unit trade-ins often associated with fleet sales and effectively disperse the used commercial vehicles for resale throughout our dealership network and our dedicated used truck facilities. We believe that the broad range of services we offer to purchasers of commercial vehicles at the time of purchase and post-purchase has resulted in a high level of customer loyalty.

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Used Commercial Vehicle Sales.  Used commercial vehicle sales accounted for approximately $289.4 million, or 6.9%, of our total revenues for 2016. We sell used commercial vehicles at most of our Rush Truck Centers and also at our non-franchised, dedicated used commercial vehicle facilities. We believe that we are well positioned to market used commercial vehicles due to our ability to recondition them for resale utilizing the parts and service departments of our Rush Truck Centers and our ability to move used commercial vehicles between our dealerships as customer demand warrants. The majority of our used commercial vehicle inventory consists of commercial vehicles taken as trade-ins from new commercial vehicle customers or retired from our lease and rental fleet, but we also supplement our used commercial vehicle inventory by purchasing used commercial vehicles from third parties for resale, as market conditions warrant.

New and Used Commercial Vehicle Financing.  Our Rush Truck Centers have personnel responsible for arranging third-party financing for our product offerings. Generally, commercial vehicle finance contracts are memorialized through the use of installment contracts, which are secured by the commercial vehicles financed, and require a down payment, with the remaining balance financed over a two to seven-year period. The majority of these finance contracts are sold to third parties without recourse to us. We provide an allowance for repossession losses and early repayment penalties that we may incur under these finance contracts.

Truck Leasing and Rental.   Truck leasing and rental revenues accounted for approximately $208.1 million, or 4.9%, of our total revenues for 2016. At our Rush Truck Leasing locations, we engage in full-service truck leasing through PacLease and Idealease. Rental trucks are also generally serviced at our facilities. We had 7,841 vehicles in our lease and rental fleet, including cranes, as of December 31, 2016, compared to 7,800 vehicles as of December 31, 2015. Generally, we sell trucks that have been retired from our lease and rental fleet through the used sales operations at our Rush Truck Centers and also at our non-franchised, dedicated used commercial vehicle facilities. Historically, we have realized gains on the sale of used lease and rental trucks.

Insurance Products

The sale of financial and insurance products accounted for approximately $18.6 million, or 0.4%, of our total revenues for 2016. Finance and insurance revenues have minimal direct costs and, therefore, contribute a disproportionate share of our operating profits. We sell, as agent, a complete line of property and casualty insurance to commercial vehicle owners. Our agency is licensed to sell truck liability, collision and comprehensive, workers’ compensation, cargo, and credit life insurance coverage offered by a number of leading insurance companies. Our renewal rate in 2016 was approximately 82%. We also have licensed insurance agents at several Rush Truck Centers.

Sales and Marketing

Our established history of operations in the commercial vehicle business has resulted in a strong customer base that is diverse in terms of geography, industry and scale of operations. Our customers include regional and national truck fleets, corporations, local and state governments and owner operators. During 2016, no single customer accounted for more than 10% of our sales by dollar volume. We generally promote our products and related services through direct customer contact by our sales personnel, advertisements in trade magazines and online and attendance at industry shows.

In an effort to enhance our name recognition and to communicate the standardized high level of quality products and services provided at our Rush Truck Centers, we implement our “Rush” brand name concept at each of our vehicle dealerships.

Facility Management

Personnel. Each of our facilities is typically managed by a general manager who oversees the operations, personnel and the financial performance of the location, subject to the direction of a regional manager and personnel at our corporate headquarters. Additionally, each full-service Rush Truck Center is typically staffed by a sales manager, parts manager, service manager, body shop manager, sales representatives, parts employees, and other service and make-ready employees, as appropriate, given the services offered. The sales staff of each Rush Truck Center is compensated on a salary plus commission, or a commission only basis, while managers receive a combination of salary and performance bonus. We believe that our employees are among the highest paid in the industry, which enables us to attract and retain qualified personnel.

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We have been successful in retaining our senior management, regional managers and general managers. To promote communication and efficiency in operating standards, regional managers and members of senior management attend company-wide strategy sessions each year. In addition, management personnel attend various industry-sponsored leadership and management seminars and receive continuing education on the products we distribute, marketing strategies and management information systems.

Compliance with Policies. Each Rush Truck Center is audited regularly for compliance with corporate policies and procedures. These routine, unannounced internal audits objectively measure dealership performance with respect to corporate expectations in the management and administration of sales, commercial vehicle inventory, parts inventory, parts sales, service sales, body shop sales, corporate policy compliance, human resources compliance, and environmental and safety compliance matters.

Purchasing and Suppliers. We believe that pricing is an important element of our marketing strategy. Because of our size, we benefit from volume purchases at favorable prices that permit us to achieve a competitive pricing position in the industry. We purchase our commercial vehicle inventory and proprietary parts and accessories directly from the applicable vehicle manufacturer, wholesale distributors, or other sources that provide the most favorable pricing. Most purchasing commitments are negotiated by personnel at our corporate headquarters. Historically, we have been able to negotiate favorable pricing levels and terms, which enable us to offer competitive prices for our products.

Commercial Vehicle Inventory Management. We utilize our management information systems to monitor the inventory level of commercial vehicles at each of our dealerships. Our systems provide the information that allows for the transfer of new and used commercial vehicle inventory among Rush Truck Centers as needed.

Parts Distribution and Inventory Management. We utilize a parts inventory tracking system that allows for the prompt transfer of parts inventory among various Rush Truck Centers. The transfer of inventory reduces delays in delivery, helps maximize inventory turns and assists in controlling problems created by overstock and understock situations. Our network is linked to our major suppliers for purposes of ordering parts and managing parts inventory levels. Automated reordering and communication systems allow us to maintain proper parts inventory levels and permit us to have parts inventory delivered to our locations, or directly to customers, typically within 24 hours of an order being placed.

Recent Acquisitions

On May 27, 2016, we acquired certain assets of Transwest Truck Center Las Vegas, LLC, which included a Ford truck franchise in Las Vegas, Nevada. The transaction was valued at approximately $0.8 million, with the purchase price paid in cash.

On September 28, 2015, in connection with the divestiture of our Peterbilt dealership in Charlotte, North Carolina, we acquired certain assets of Peterbilt of Las Vegas, Inc., which operated a commercial vehicle dealership in Las Vegas, Nevada.  This location is operating as a Rush Truck Center and is a full-service Peterbilt dealership. The acquisition also included a PacLease commercial vehicle rental and leasing business.  The dealership swap was a like-kind exchange for tax purposes and enabled us to be consistent with our preferred strategy of not having dealerships representing multiple Class 8 manufacturers in the same market, as we continue to operate a facility representing International, Hino and Isuzu trucks in Charlotte. The sale price for the assets in Charlotte, North Carolina was approximately $6.4 million, which was offset by floor plan and accounts payable of $5.9 million. The purchase price for the assets in Las Vegas, Nevada was approximately $3.4 million, which was paid in cash.

On July 27, 2015, we acquired certain assets of Dallas Truck Center, Inc., which included real estate and used truck inventory, in Dallas, Texas. We are now operating this facility as Rig Tough Used Trucks, Dallas, a dedicated, non-franchised used commercial vehicle sales facility. The transaction was valued at approximately $3.3 million, with the purchase price paid in cash.

On May 4, 2015, we acquired certain assets of Yancey Truck Centers, LLC, which operated commercial vehicle dealerships in Albany, Blackshear, Tifton, Valdosta, Augusta, Columbus and Macon, Georgia.  Certain of these locations are operating as Rush Truck Centers and offer commercial vehicle sales, parts and service for International trucks.  The acquisition also included an Idealease commercial vehicle rental and leasing business. The purchase price for the assets, goodwill, franchise rights and dealership properties was approximately $30.1 million, which was paid in cash and a portion financed under our floor plan arrangement.

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On February 9, 2015, we acquired certain assets of Effingham Truck Sales, Inc. The acquisition included International commercial truck dealerships and an Idealease commercial vehicle rental and leasing business in Effingham and Mount Vernon, Illinois. The purchase price for the assets, goodwill, and dealership properties was approximately $25.3 million, which was paid in cash.

See Note 15 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for a detailed discussion of the allocation of the purchase price of these acquisitions.

Competition

There is, and will continue to be, significant competition both within our current markets and in new markets we may enter. We anticipate that competition between us and other dealership groups will continue to increase in our current markets and on a national level based on the following:

● the ability to keep customers’ vehicles operational, which is dependent on the accessibility of dealership locations;

●  the number of dealership locations representing the manufacturers that we represent and other manufacturers, which impacts manufacturers’ ability to provide more consistent, higher quality service in a timely manner across their dealership networks;

●   price, value, quality and design of the products sold; and

●   attention to customer service (including technical service).

Our dealerships compete with dealerships representing other manufacturers including commercial vehicles manufactured by Mack, Freightliner, Kenworth, Volvo, and Western Star. We believe that our dealerships are able to compete with manufacturer-owned dealers, other franchised dealership groups, independent service centers, parts wholesalers, commercial vehicle wholesalers, rental service companies and industrial auctioneers in distributing our products and providing service because of the following: the overall quality and reputation of the products we sell; the “Rush” brand name recognition and reputation for quality service; the geographic scope of our dealership network; the breadth of vehicles offered in our dealership network; and our ability to provide comprehensive parts and service support, as well as financing, insurance and other customer services.

Dealership Agreements

Peterbilt. We have entered into nonexclusive dealership agreements with Peterbilt that authorize us to act as a dealer of Peterbilt heavy- and medium-duty trucks. Our Peterbilt areas of responsibility currently encompass areas in the states of Alabama, Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Kentucky, New Mexico, Nevada, Oklahoma, Tennessee and Texas. These dealership agreements currently have terms expiring between May 2017 and March 2019 and impose certain operational obligations and financial requirements upon us and our dealerships. Our dealership agreements with Peterbilt may be terminated by Peterbilt in the event that the aggregate voting power of W. Marvin Rush, W.M. “Rusty” Rush, other members of the Rush family and certain executives of the Company decreases below 22%. Sales of new Peterbilt commercial vehicles accounted for approximately 34.0% of our total revenues for 2016.

International. We have entered into nonexclusive dealership agreements with Navistar that authorize us to act as a dealer of International heavy- and medium-duty trucks and IC buses. Our Navistar areas of responsibility currently encompass areas in the states of Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, North Carolina, Ohio, Utah and Virginia. These dealership agreements currently have terms expiring between December 2017 and March 2021 and impose certain operational obligations and financial requirements upon us and our dealerships. Sales of new International commercial vehicles accounted for approximately 10.9% of our total revenues for 2016.

Other Commercial Vehicle Suppliers. In addition to our dealership agreements with Peterbilt and Navistar, various Rush Truck Centers have entered into dealership agreements with other commercial vehicle manufacturers, including Blue Bird, Micro Bird and Mitsubishi Fuso, which currently have terms expiring between July 2017 and November 2018 and Ford, Hino and Isuzu, which have indefinite terms. These dealership agreements impose operating requirements upon us and require consent from the affected supplier for the sale or transfer of such dealership agreement. Sales of new non-Peterbilt and non-International commercial vehicles accounted for approximately 10.8% of our total revenues for 2016.

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Any termination or non-renewal of our dealership agreements must follow certain guidelines established by both state and federal legislation designed to protect motor vehicle dealers from arbitrary termination or non-renewal of franchise agreements. The federal Automobile Dealers Day in Court Act and other similar state laws generally provide that the termination or non-renewal of a motor vehicle dealership agreement must be done in “good faith” and upon a showing of “good cause” by the manufacturer for such termination or non-renewal, as such terms have been defined by statute and interpreted in case law.

Floor Plan Financing

During 2016, we financed the majority of all new commercial vehicle inventory purchases and the loan value of our used commercial vehicle inventory under a credit agreement (the “Floor Plan Credit Agreement”) with BMO Harris Bank N.A. that was amended and restated on July 7, 2016. The Floor Plan Credit Agreement includes an aggregate loan commitment of $875.0 million. Borrowings under the Floor Plan Credit Agreement bear interest at an annual rate equal to (A) the greater of (i) zero and (ii) three month LIBOR rate, determined on the last day of the prior month, plus (B) 1.51% and are payable monthly.  In addition, we are required to pay a monthly working capital fee equal to 0.16% per annum multiplied by the amount of voluntary prepayments of new and used inventory loans. Loans under the Floor Plan Credit Agreement for the purchase of used inventory are limited to $150.0 million. We may terminate the Floor Plan Credit Agreement at any time, although if we do so we must pay a prepayment processing fee equal to: (i) 2.0% of the aggregate revolving loan commitments if such termination occurs on or before January 1, 2018; (ii) 1.0% of the aggregate revolving loan commitments if such termination occurs after January 1, 2018 and on or prior to July 1, 2018; and (iii) $500,000 if such termination occurs after July 1, 2018 and prior to June 30, 2019, subject to specified limited exceptions. On December 31, 2016, we had approximately $548.1 million outstanding under the Floor Plan Credit Agreement. The average daily outstanding borrowings under the Floor Plan Credit Agreement were $632.8 million during the twelve months ended December 31, 2016. Periodically, we utilize our excess cash on hand to pay down our outstanding borrowings under the Floor Plan Credit Agreement, and the resulting interest earned is recognized as an offset to our gross interest expense under the Floor Plan Credit Agreement.

In June 2012, we entered into a wholesale financing agreement with Ford Motor Credit Company that provides for the financing of, and is collateralized by, our Ford new vehicle inventory. This wholesale financing agreement bears interest at a rate of Prime plus 150 basis points minus certain incentives and rebates; however, the prime rate is defined to be a minimum of 3.75%. As of December 31, 2016, the interest rate on the wholesale financing agreement was 5.25% before considering the applicable incentives. As of December 31, 2016, we had an outstanding balance of approximately $66.4 million under the Ford Motor Credit Company wholesale financing agreement.

Product Warranties

The manufacturers we represent provide retail purchasers of their products with a limited warranty against defects in materials and workmanship, excluding certain specified components that are separately warranted by the suppliers of such components. We provide a warranty on our proprietary line of parts and related service. We also provide an extended warranty beyond the manufacturer’s warranty on new school buses sold in the State of Texas, as required by state law.

We generally sell used commercial vehicles in “as is” condition without a manufacturer’s warranty, although manufacturers sometimes will provide a limited warranty on their used products if such products have been properly reconditioned prior to resale or if the manufacturer’s warranty on such product is transferable and has not expired. We do not provide any warranty on used commercial vehicles.

Trademarks

The trademarks and trade names of the manufacturers we represent, which are used in connection with our marketing and sales efforts, are subject to limited licenses included in our dealership agreements with each manufacturer. The licenses are for the same periods as our dealership agreements. These trademarks and trade names are widely recognized and are important in the marketing of our products. Each licensor engages in a continuous program of trademark and trade name protection. We hold registered trademarks from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office for the following names used in this document: “Rush Enterprises,” “Rush Truck Center,” “Chrome Country,” “Rig Tough,” “CVS Custom Vehicle Solutions” and “Momentum Fuel Technologies.”

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Employees

On December 31, 2016, we had 6,180 employees. 

We have entered into collective bargaining agreements covering certain employees in Chicago, Illinois, which will expire on May 6, 2017, Joliet, Illinois, which will expire on May 5, 2018 and Carol Stream, Illinois, which will expire on May 4, 2019. 

There have been no strikes, work stoppages or slowdowns during the negotiations of the foregoing collective bargaining agreements or at any time in the Company’s history, although no assurances can be given that such actions will not occur.

Seasonality

Our Truck Segment is moderately seasonal. Seasonal effects on new commercial vehicle sales related to the seasonal purchasing patterns of any single customer type are mitigated by the diverse geographic locations of our dealerships and our diverse customer base, including regional and national fleets, local and state governments, corporations and owner-operators. However, commercial vehicle parts and service operations historically have experienced higher sales volumes in the second and third quarters.

Backlog

On December 31, 2016, our backlog of commercial vehicle orders was approximately $830.3 million, compared to a backlog of commercial vehicle orders of approximately $1,223.9 million on December 31, 2015. Our backlog is determined quarterly by multiplying the number of new commercial vehicles for each particular type of commercial vehicle ordered by a customer at our Rush Truck Centers by the recent average selling price for that type of commercial vehicle. We include only confirmed orders in our backlog. However, such orders are subject to cancellation. In the event of order cancellation, we have no contractual right to the total revenues reflected in our backlog. The delivery time for a custom-ordered commercial vehicle varies depending on the truck specifications and demand for the particular model ordered. We sell the majority of our new heavy-duty commercial vehicles by customer special order and we sell the majority of our medium- and light-duty commercial vehicles out of inventory. Orders from a number of our major fleet customers are included in our backlog as of December 31, 2016, and we expect to fill the majority of our backlog orders during 2017.

Environmental Standards and Other Governmental Regulations

We are subject to a wide range of federal, state and local environmental laws and regulations, including those governing discharges into the air and water; the operation and removal of underground and aboveground storage tanks; the use, handling, storage and disposal of hazardous substances, petroleum and other materials; and the investigation and remediation of environmental impacts. As with commercial vehicle dealerships generally, and Aftermarket Services operations in particular, our business involves the generation, use, storage, handling and contracting for recycling or disposal of hazardous materials or wastes and other environmentally sensitive materials. We have incurred, and will continue to incur, capital and operating expenditures and other costs in complying with such laws and regulations.

Our operations involving the use, handling, storage and disposal of hazardous and nonhazardous materials are subject to the requirements of the federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, or RCRA, and comparable state statutes. Pursuant to these laws, federal and state environmental agencies have established approved methods for handling, storage, treatment, transportation and disposal of regulated substances and wastes with which we must comply. Our business also involves the operation and use of aboveground and underground storage tanks. These storage tanks are subject to periodic testing, containment, upgrading and removal under RCRA and comparable state statutes. Furthermore, investigation or remediation may be necessary in the event of leaks or other discharges from current or former underground or aboveground storage tanks.

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We may also have liability in connection with materials that were sent to third-party recycling, treatment, or disposal facilities under the federal Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act, or CERCLA, and comparable state statutes. These statutes impose liability for investigation and remediation of environmental impacts without regard to fault or the legality of the conduct that contributed to the impacts. Responsible parties under these statutes may include the owner or operator of the site where impacts occurred and companies that disposed or arranged for the disposal of the hazardous substances released at these sites. These responsible parties also may be liable for damages to natural resources. In addition, it is not uncommon for neighboring landowners and other third parties to file claims for personal injury and property damage allegedly caused by the release of hazardous substances or other materials into the environment.

The federal Clean Water Act and comparable state statutes prohibit discharges into regulated waters without the necessary permits, require containment of potential discharges of oil or hazardous substances, and require preparation of spill contingency plans. Water quality protection programs govern certain discharges from some of our operations. Similarly, the federal Clean Air Act and comparable state statutes regulate emissions of various air emissions through permitting programs and the imposition of standards and other requirements.

The Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (“NHTSA”), on behalf of the U.S. Department of Transportation, issued final rules on September 15, 2011 associated with reducing greenhouse gas (“GHG”) emissions and improving the fuel efficiency of medium and heavy-duty trucks and buses beginning in model year 2014 and being phased in through model year 2018.  On June 19, 2015, the EPA and NHTSA proposed further GHG and fuel efficiency standards that would apply to medium and heavy-duty vehicles and buses and would be phased in between model years 2021 through 2027.  On August 16, 2016, the EPA and NHTSA issued final rules that largely adopted their June 19, 2015 proposal. We do not believe that the foregoing adopted standards will negatively impact our business, however, future legislation or other new regulations that may be adopted to address GHG emissions or fuel efficiency standards may negatively impact our business.  Additional regulations could result in increased compliance costs, additional operating restrictions or changes in demand for our products and services, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

We believe that we do not currently have any material environmental liabilities and that compliance with environmental laws and regulations will not, individually or in the aggregate, have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial condition or cash flows. However, soil and groundwater impacts are known to exist at some of our current properties. Further, environmental laws and regulations are complex and subject to change. In addition, in connection with acquisitions, it is possible that we will assume or become subject to new or unforeseen environmental costs or liabilities, some of which may be material. In connection with our dispositions, or prior dispositions made by companies we acquire, we may retain exposure for environmental costs and liabilities, some of which may be material. Compliance with current or amended, or new or more stringent, laws or regulations, stricter interpretations of existing laws or the future discovery of environmental conditions could require additional expenditures by us, and those expenditures could be material.

Item 1A. Risk Factors

An investment in our common stock is subject to certain risks inherent to our business. In addition to the other information contained in this Form 10-K, we recommend that you carefully consider the following risk factors in evaluating our business. If any of the following risks actually occur, our financial condition and results of operations could be materially adversely affected. If this were to happen, the value of our common stock could decline significantly, and you could lose all or part of your investment. This report is qualified in its entirety by these risk factors.

Risks Related to Our Business

We are dependent upon PACCAR for the supply of Peterbilt trucks and parts, the sale of which generates the majority of our revenues.

At certain Rush Truck Centers, we operate as a dealer of Peterbilt trucks and parts pursuant to dealership agreements with Peterbilt, a division of PACCAR. We have no control over the management or operation of Peterbilt or PACCAR. During 2016, the majority of our revenues resulted from sales of trucks purchased from Peterbilt and parts purchased from PACCAR Parts. Due to our dependence on PACCAR and Peterbilt, we believe that our long-term success depends, in large part, on the following:

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● our ability to maintain our dealership agreements with Peterbilt;

● the manufacture and delivery of competitively-priced, high quality Peterbilt trucks by Peterbilt in quantities sufficient to meet our requirements;

● the overall success of PACCAR and Peterbilt;

● PACCAR’s continuation of its Peterbilt division; and

● the maintenance of goodwill associated with the Peterbilt brand, which can be adversely affected by decisions made by PACCAR, Peterbilt and the owners of other Peterbilt dealerships.

A negative change in any of the preceding, or a change in control of PACCAR, could have a material adverse effect on our operations, revenues and profitability.

We are dependent upon Navistar for the supply of International trucks and parts and IC buses and parts, the sale of which generate a significant portion of our revenues.

At certain Rush Truck Centers, we operate as a dealer of International trucks and parts and IC buses and parts pursuant to dealership agreements with International and IC Bus, each of which are divisions of Navistar. We have no control over the management or operation of International, IC Bus or Navistar. During 2016, a significant portion of our revenues resulted from sales of trucks purchased from International, buses purchased from IC Bus and parts purchased from Navistar. Due to our dependence on Navistar, International and IC Bus, we believe that our long-term success depends, in large part, on the following:

● our ability to maintain our dealership agreements with International and IC Bus;

● the manufacture and delivery of competitively-priced, high quality International trucks and IC buses in quantities sufficient to meet our requirements;

● the overall success of Navistar; and

● the maintenance of goodwill associated with the International and IC Bus brands, which can be adversely affected by decisions made by Navistar and the owners of other International and IC Bus dealerships.

A negative change in any of the preceding, or a change in control of Navistar, could have a material adverse effect on our operations, revenues and profitability.

Our dealership agreements may be terminable upon a change of control and we cannot control whether our controlling shareholder and management maintain their current ownership positions.

We have entered into nonexclusive dealership agreements with Peterbilt that authorize us to act as a dealer of Peterbilt trucks. Peterbilt may terminate our dealership agreements in the event of a change of control of the Company or if we violate any number of provisions in the dealership agreements. Under our Peterbilt dealership agreements, the following constitute a change of control: (i) with respect to the election of directors, the aggregate voting power held by W. Marvin Rush, W. M. “Rusty” Rush, Barbara Rush, Robin M. Rush, David C. Orf, James Thor, Martin A. Naegelin, Scott Anderson, Derrek Weaver, Steven Keller, Corey Lowe and Rich Ryan (collectively, the “Dealer Principals”) decreases below 22% (such persons controlled 33.7% of the aggregate voting power with respect to the election of directors as of December 31, 2016); or (ii) any person or entity other than the Dealer Principals and their respective associates, or any person or entity who has been approved in writing by PACCAR, owns common stock with a greater percentage of the voting power with respect to the election of our directors than the Dealer Principals and their respective associates, in the aggregate, or any person other than W. Marvin Rush, W. M. “Rusty” Rush, Robin M. Rush or any person who has been approved in writing by PACCAR holds the office of Chairman of the Board, President or Chief Executive Officer of the Company. We have no control over the transfer or disposition by W. Marvin Rush, W.M. “Rusty” Rush, or by either of their estates, of their common stock. If W. Marvin Rush or W.M. “Rusty” Rush were to sell their Class B Common Stock or bequest their Class B Common Stock to a person or entity other than the Dealer Principles, or if their estates are required to liquidate their Class B Common Stock to pay estate taxes or otherwise, the change of control provisions of the Peterbilt dealership agreements may be triggered, which would give Peterbilt the right to terminate our dealership agreements. If our dealership agreements with Peterbilt are terminated, we will lose the right to purchase Peterbilt products and operate as an authorized Peterbilt dealer, which would have a material adverse effect on our operations, revenues and profitability.

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Our dealership agreements are non-exclusive and have relatively short terms which could result in non-renewal or imposition of less favorable terms upon renewal.

Our dealership agreements generally do not provide us with exclusive dealerships in any territory. The manufacturers we represent could elect to create additional dealers in our market areas in the future, subject to restrictions imposed by state laws. While dealership agreements typically restrict dealers from operating sales or service facilities outside their assigned territory, such agreements do not restrict fleet or other sales or marketing activity outside the assigned territory. Accordingly, we engage in fleet sales and other marketing activities outside our assigned territories and other dealers engage in similar activities within our territories.

Our dealership agreements with the manufacturers we represent have current terms expiring between July 2017 and March 2021. Upon expiration of each agreement, we must negotiate a renewal. Management expects that, consistent with in some cases decades of past practice, each of our dealership agreements will be renewed before their respective termination dates, provided that we do not breach any of the material terms of the agreements.

Management attempts to mitigate the risk that any manufacturer would not renew a dealership agreement by providing superior representation of each brand that we represent in each of our areas of responsibility. We deliver superior representation to our manufacturers by continuously investing substantial capital into our dealership locations, marketing and personnel. Senior members of our management team also communicate with management of the manufacturers that we represent on a regular basis, which we believe allows us to identify any potentially problematic issues as early as possible so that we can begin working on solutions that are mutually agreeable. In addition to the proactive steps that management takes, the risks that our dealership agreements will not be renewed are also mitigated by dealer protection laws that exist in each of the states that our dealerships are located. Many of these state dealer franchise laws restrict manufacturers’ ability to refuse to renew dealership agreements or to impose new terms upon renewal. However, to the extent such laws did allow for non-renewal or the imposition of new terms, the relatively short terms would give manufacturers the opportunity to exercise such rights. Any non-renewal or imposition of less favorable terms upon renewal could have an adverse impact on our business and in the case of the Peterbilt dealership agreements, would have an adverse impact on our business.

If state dealer laws are repealed or weakened, our dealerships will be more susceptible to termination, nonrenewal or renegotiation of their dealership agreements.

We depend on our vehicle dealership agreements for a substantial portion of our revenues and profitability. State dealer laws generally provide that a manufacturer may not terminate or refuse to renew a dealership agreement unless it has first provided the dealer with written notice setting forth good cause and stating the grounds for termination or nonrenewal. Manufacturers’ lobbying efforts may lead to the repeal or revision of state motor vehicle dealer laws. If motor vehicle dealer laws are repealed or amended in the states in which we operate dealerships, the manufacturers we represent may be able to terminate our vehicle dealership agreements without providing advance notice, an opportunity to cure or a showing of good cause. Without the protection of state dealer laws, or if such laws are weakened, we will be subject to higher risk of termination or non-renewal of our vehicle dealership agreements. Termination or non-renewal of our vehicle dealership agreements would have a material adverse effect on our operations, revenues and profitability.

We may be required to obtain additional financing to maintain adequate inventory levels.

Our business requires inventories held for sale to be maintained at dealer locations in order to facilitate immediate sales to customers on demand. We generally purchase inventories with the assistance of floor plan financing agreements. Our primary floor plan financing agreement, the Floor Plan Credit Agreement, expires on June 30, 2019 and may be terminated without cause upon 120 days’ notice. In the event that our floor plan financing becomes insufficient to satisfy our future requirements or our floor plan providers are unable to continue to extend credit under our floor plan agreements, we would need to obtain similar financing from other sources. There is no assurance that such additional floor plan financing or alternate financing could be obtained or, if obtained, that it will be on commercially reasonable terms.

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Impairment in the carrying value of goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets could negatively affect our operating results.

We have a substantial amount of goodwill on our balance sheet as a result of acquisitions we have completed. Approximately 99% of this goodwill is concentrated in our Truck Segment. The carrying value of goodwill represents the fair value of an acquired business in excess of identifiable assets and liabilities as of the acquisition date. Goodwill is not amortized, but instead is evaluated for impairment at least annually, or more frequently if potential interim indicators exist that could result in impairment. In testing for impairment, if the carrying value of a reporting unit exceeds its current fair value as determined based on the discounted future cash flows of the reporting unit, the goodwill is considered impaired and is reduced to fair value via a non-cash charge to earnings. Events and conditions that could result in impairment include weak economic activity, adverse changes in the regulatory environment, any matters that impact the ability of the manufacturers we represent to provide commercial vehicles or parts to us, issues with our franchise rights, or other factors leading to reductions in expected long-term sales or profitability. Determination of the fair value of a reporting unit includes developing estimates that are highly subjective and incorporate calculations that are sensitive to minor changes in underlying assumptions. Management’s assumptions are subject to change as more information becomes available. Changes in these assumptions or a change in the Company’s reportable segments could result in an impairment charge in the future, which could have a significant adverse impact on our reported earnings.  See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates — Goodwill” for more information regarding the potential impact of changes in assumptions.

Changes in interest rates could have a material adverse effect on our profitability. 

Our Floor Plan Credit Agreement and some of our other debt are subject to variable interest rates. Therefore, our interest expense would rise with any increase in interest rates. A rise in interest rates may also have the effect of depressing demand in the interest rate sensitive aspects of our business, particularly new and used commercial vehicle sales, because many of our customers finance such purchases. As a result, a rise in interest rates may have the effect of simultaneously increasing our costs and reducing our revenues, which could materially affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. See “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk” for a discussion regarding our interest rate sensitivity.

Our business is subject to a number of economic risks.

New and used commercial vehicle retail sales tend to experience periods of decline when general economic conditions worsen, characterized by oversupply and weak demand. We may experience sustained periods of decreased commercial vehicle sales in the future. Any decline or change of this type could materially affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. In addition, adverse regional economic and competitive conditions in the geographic markets in which we operate could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. Our new commercial vehicle sales volume therefore may differ from industry sales fluctuations.

Economic conditions and the other factors described above also may materially adversely impact our sales of parts and repair services, and finance and insurance products.

If we lose key personnel or are unable to attract additional qualified personnel, our business could be adversely affected because we rely on the industry knowledge and relationships of our key personnel.

We believe that our success depends significantly upon the efforts and abilities of our executive management and key employees. Additionally, our business is dependent upon our ability to continue to attract and retain qualified personnel, such as executive officers, managers and dealership personnel. The loss of the services of one or more members of our senior management team could have a material adverse effect on us and materially impair the efficiency and productivity of our operations. In addition, the loss of any of our key employees or the failure to attract additional qualified executive officers, managers and dealership personnel could have a material adverse effect on our business and may materially impact the ability of our dealerships to conduct their operations in accordance with our business strategy.

We depend on relationships with suppliers for sales incentives, discounts and similar programs which are material to our operations.

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We depend on suppliers for sales incentives, discounts, warranties and other programs that are intended to promote our use of their components. Most of the incentives and discounts are individually negotiated and not always the same as those made available to our competitors. These incentives and discounts are material to our operations. A reduction or discontinuation of a component supplier’s incentive program could have a material adverse effect on our profitability.

We are dependent on the ongoing success of the manufacturers we represent and adverse conditions affecting the manufacturers we represent may negatively impact our revenues and profitability. 

The success of each of our dealerships is dependent on the manufacturers represented at each dealership in several ways. Our ability to sell new vehicles and replacement parts is dependent on the ability of the manufacturers we represent to produce and deliver new vehicles and replacement parts to our dealerships. Additionally, our dealerships perform warranty work for vehicles under manufacturer product warranties, which are billed to the appropriate vehicle manufacturer or component supplier as opposed to invoicing our customer. We generally have significant receivables from manufacturers for warranty and service work performed for our customers. In addition, we rely on manufacturers to varying extents for product training, marketing materials, and other items for our stores. Our business, results of operations, and financial condition could be materially adversely affected as a result of any event that has a material adverse effect on the manufacturers we represent.

The manufacturers we represent may be adversely impacted by economic downturns, significant declines in the sales of their new vehicles, labor strikes or similar disruptions (including within their major suppliers), rising raw materials costs, rising employee benefit costs, adverse publicity that may reduce consumer demand for their products (including due to bankruptcy), product defects, vehicle recall campaigns, litigation, poor product mix or unappealing vehicle design, governmental laws and regulations, or other adverse events. Our results of operations, financial condition or cash flows could be adversely affected if one or more of the manufacturers we represent are impacted by any of the foregoing adverse events.

Actions taken in response to continued operational losses by manufacturers we represent, including bankruptcy or reorganizations, could have a material adverse effect on our sales volumes and profitability. In addition, such actions could lead to the impairment of one or more of our franchise rights, inventories, fixed assets and other related assets, which in turn could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. For example, during the second quarter of 2009, General Motors made the decision to terminate its medium-duty GMC truck production and wind-down our medium-duty GMC truck franchises, which forced us to take a significant pre-tax asset impairment charge in the second quarter of 2009. Actions taken in response to continued operational losses by manufacturers we represent, including bankruptcy or reorganizations, could also eliminate or reduce such manufacturers’ indemnification obligations to our dealerships, which could increase our risk in products liability actions.

The dollar amount of our backlog, as stated at any given time, is not necessarily indicative of our future earnings.

As of December 31, 2016, our backlog of new commercial vehicle orders was approximately $830.3 million. Our backlog is determined quarterly by multiplying the number of new commercial vehicles for each particular type of commercial vehicle ordered by a customer at our Rush Truck Centers by the recent average selling price for that type of commercial vehicle. We only include confirmed orders in our backlog. However, such orders are subject to cancellation. In the event of order cancellation, we have no contractual right to the total revenues reflected in our backlog.

Reductions in backlog due to cancellation by a customer or for other reasons will adversely affect, potentially to a material extent, the revenue and profit we actually receive from orders projected in our backlog. If we were to experience significant cancellations of orders in our backlog, our financial condition could be adversely affected.

Our dealerships are subject to federal, state and local environmental regulations that may result in claims and liabilities, which could be material.

We are subject to a wide range of federal, state and local environmental laws and regulations, including those governing discharges into the air and water; the operation and removal of underground and aboveground storage tanks; the use, handling, storage and disposal of hazardous substances, petroleum and other materials; and the investigation and remediation of contamination. As with commercial vehicle dealerships generally, and service, parts and body shop operations in particular, our business involves the generation, use, storage, handling and contracting for recycling or disposal of hazardous materials or wastes and other environmentally sensitive materials. Any non-compliance with these laws and regulations could result in significant fines, penalties and remediation costs which could adversely affect our results of operations, financial condition or cash flows.

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We may also have liability in connection with materials that were sent to third-party recycling, treatment, or disposal facilities under federal and state statutes. In that case, laws and regulations may make us responsible for liability relating to the investigation and remediation of contamination without regard to fault or the legality of the conduct that contributed to the contamination. In connection with our acquisitions, it is possible that we will assume or become subject to new or unforeseen environmental costs or liabilities, some of which may be material. In connection with dispositions of businesses, or dispositions previously made by companies we acquire, we may retain exposure for environmental costs and liabilities, some of which may be material.

Further, environmental laws and regulations are complex and subject to change. Compliance with current or amended, or new or more stringent, laws or regulations, stricter interpretations of existing laws or the future discovery of environmental conditions could require additional expenditures by us which could materially adversely affect our results of operations, financial condition or cash flows.

Disruptions to our information technology systems and breaches in data security could adversely affect our business.

We rely upon our information technology systems to manage all aspects of our business, including processing and recording sales to, and payments from, customers, managing inventory, communicating with manufacturers and vendors and financial reporting. Any inability to manage these systems, including with respect to matters related to system and data security, privacy, reliability, compliance, performance and access, as well as any inability of these systems to fulfill their intended purpose within our business, could have an adverse effect on our business. In addition, in the ordinary course of business, we collect and store sensitive data and information, including our proprietary business information and that of our customers, suppliers and business partners, as well as personally identifiable information about our employees. Despite the security measures we have in place, our facilities and systems, and those of our third-party service providers, could be vulnerable to security breaches, computer viruses, lost or misplaced data, programming errors, human errors, acts of vandalism, or other events. Any security breach or event resulting in the misappropriation, loss, or other unauthorized disclosure of confidential information, whether by us directly or our third-party service providers, could adversely affect our business operations, sales, reputation with current and potential customers, associates or vendors and result in litigation or regulatory actions, all of which could have a material adverse effect on our business and reputation.

Natural disasters and adverse weather events can disrupt our business. 

Some of our dealerships are located in regions of the United States where natural disasters and severe weather events (such as hurricanes, earthquakes, fires, floods, tornadoes and hail storms) may disrupt our operations, which may adversely impact our business, results of operations, financial condition and cash flows. In addition to business interruption, our business is subject to substantial risk of property loss due to the significant concentration of property at dealership locations. Although we have substantial insurance to cover this risk, we may be exposed to uninsured or underinsured losses that could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

Risks Related to Our Common Stock

We are controlled by two shareholders and their affiliates.

Collectively, W. Marvin Rush and W. M. “Rusty” Rush and their affiliates own approximately 0.3% of our issued and outstanding shares of Class A Common Stock and 37.5% of our issued and outstanding Class B Common Stock. W. Marvin Rush and W.M. “Rusty” Rush collectively control approximately 32.3% of the aggregate voting power of our outstanding shares and voting power which is substantially more than any other person or group. The interests of W. Marvin Rush and W.M. “Rusty” Rush may not be consistent with the interests of all shareholders, or each other. As a result of such ownership, W. Marvin Rush and W.M. “Rusty” Rush have the power to effectively control the Company, including the election of directors, the determination of matters requiring shareholder approval and other matters pertaining to corporate governance.

Our dealership agreements could discourage another company from acquiring us.

Our dealership agreements with Peterbilt impose ownership requirements on certain officers of the Company. All of our dealership agreements include restrictions on the sale or transfer of the underlying franchises. These ownership requirements and restrictions may prevent or deter prospective acquirers from acquiring control of us and, therefore, may adversely impact the value of our common stock.

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Additionally, W. Marvin Rush and W.M. “Rusty” Rush have granted Peterbilt a right of first refusal to purchase their respective shares of common stock in the event that they desire to transfer in excess of 100,000 shares in any 12-month period to any person other than an immediate family member, an associate or another Dealer Principal. However, in the case of W. Marvin Rush, certain shares of his Class B Common Stock of the Company are exempt from his rights of first refusal agreement. These rights of first refusal, the number of shares owned by W. Marvin Rush and W.M. “Rusty” Rush and their affiliates, the requirement in our dealership agreements that the Dealer Principals retain a controlling interest in us, the restrictions on the sale or transfer of our franchises contained in our dealer agreements combined with the ability of the Board of Directors to issue shares of preferred stock without further vote or action by the shareholders, may discourage, delay or prevent a change in control without further action by our shareholders, which could adversely affect the market price of our common stock or prevent or delay a merger or acquisition that our shareholders may consider favorable.

Actions by our shareholders or prospective shareholders that would violate any of the above restrictions on our dealership agreements are generally outside of our control. If we are unable to renegotiate these restrictions, we may be forced to terminate or sell one or more of our dealerships, which could have a material adverse effect on us. These restrictions may also inhibit our ability to raise required capital or to issue our stock as consideration for future acquisitions.

Class A Common Stock has limited voting power.

Each share of Class A Common Stock ranks substantially equal to each share of Class B Common Stock with respect to receipt of any dividends or distributions declared on shares of common stock and the right to receive proceeds on liquidation or dissolution of us after payment of our indebtedness and liquidation preference payments to holders of any preferred shares. However, holders of Class A Common Stock have 1/20th of one vote per share on all matters requiring a shareholder vote, while holders of Class B Common Stock have one full vote per share.

Our Class B Common Stock has a low average daily trading volume. As a result, sales of our Class B Common Stock could cause the market price of our Class B Common Stock to drop, and it may be difficult for a stockholder to liquidate its position in our Class B Common Stock quickly without adversely affecting the market price of such shares.

The market price of our Class B Common Stock has historically been lower than the market price of our Class A Common Stock. The volume of trading in our Class B Common Stock varies greatly and may often be light. As of December 31, 2016, the three-month average daily trading volume of our Class B Common Stock was approximately 29,000 shares, with several days having a trading volume below 10,000 shares. If any large shareholder were to begin selling shares in the market, the added available supply of shares could cause the market price of our Class B Common Stock to drop. In addition, the lack of a robust resale market may require a shareholder to sell a large number of shares of our Class B Common Stock in increments over time to mitigate any adverse impact of the sales on the market price of our Class B Common Stock.

Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments

None.

Item 2. Properties

Our corporate headquarters are located in New Braunfels, Texas. As of December 2016, we also own or lease numerous facilities used in our operations in the following states: Alabama, Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Missouri, New Mexico, Nevada, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, Utah and Virginia.

We lease a hangar in New Braunfels, Texas for the corporate aircraft. We also own and operate a guest ranch of approximately 9,500 acres near Cotulla, Texas, which is used for client development purposes.

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Item 3. Legal Proceedings

From time to time, we are involved in litigation arising out of our operations in the ordinary course of business. We maintain liability insurance, including product liability coverage, in amounts deemed adequate by management. To date, aggregate costs to us for claims, including product liability actions, have not been material. However, an uninsured or partially insured claim, or claim for which indemnification is not available, could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations. We believe that there are no claims or litigation pending, the outcome of which could have a material adverse effect on our financial position or results of operations. However, due to the inherent uncertainty of litigation, there can be no assurance that the resolution of any particular claim or proceeding would not have a material adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations for the fiscal period in which such resolution occurred.

Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures

Not applicable.

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PART II

Item 5. Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Shareholder Matters, and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

Our common stock trades on The NASDAQ Global Select Market^SM under the symbols RUSHA and RUSHB.

The following table sets forth the high and low sales prices for the Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock for the fiscal periods indicated and as quoted on The NASDAQ Global Select Market^SM.

	2016				2015
	High		Low		High		Low
Class A Common Stock
First Quarter	$	22.20	$	14.19	$	32.59	$	25.94
Second Quarter		22.88		16.54		28.73		25.55
Third Quarter		25.09		20.58		27.00		22.58
Fourth Quarter		34.11		21.99		27.45		19.04
Class B Common Stock
First Quarter	$	22.08	$	14.20	$	28.28	$	23.73
Second Quarter		21.86		16.47		26.81		23.17
Third Quarter		25.00		20.22		25.01		20.82
Fourth Quarter		31.56		22.14		25.84		20.08

As of February 14, 2017, there were approximately 27 record holders of Class A Common Stock and approximately 36 record holders of Class B Common Stock.

We did not pay dividends during the fiscal year ended December 31, 2016, or the fiscal year ended December 31, 2015. The Board of Directors intends to retain any earnings to support operations, repurchase shares and to finance expansion. Any future determination as to the payment of dividends will be at the discretion of the Board of Directors of the Company and will depend on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations, capital requirements and such other factors as the Board of Directors deems relevant.

As of December 31, 2016, we have not sold any securities in the last three years that were not registered under the Securities Act.

A summary of the Company’s stock repurchase activity for the fourth quarter of 2016 is as follows:

Period	Total Number of Shares Purchased (1)(2)(3)		Average Price Paid Per Share (1)			Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs (2)		Approximate Dollar Value of Shares that May Yet be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs (3)
October 1 – October 31, 2016		109,466	$	23.68	(4)		109,466	$	3,974,400
November 1 – November 30, 2016		145,328		27.57	(5)		145,328		0
December 1 – December 31, 2016		115,373		30.13	(6)		115,373		36,520,932
Total		370,167					370,167		36,520,932

 ______________

(1)	The calculation of the average price paid per share does not give effect to any fees, commissions or other costs associated with the repurchase of such shares.
(2)	The shares represent Class B Common Stock repurchased by the Company.
(3)	The Company repurchased shares under a stock repurchase program announced on December 4, 2015, which authorized the repurchase of up to $40.0 million of its shares of Class A Common Stock and/or Class B Common Stock. This stock repurchase program expired on November 30, 2016. The Company announced a new $40 million stock program on November 30, 2016, which authorized the repurchase of up to $40.0 million of its shares of Class A Common Stock and/or Class B Common Stock and will expire on November 30, 2017.
(4)	Represents 109,466 shares of Class B Common Stock at an average price paid per share of $23.68.
(5)	Represents 143,883 shares of Class B Common Stock at an average price paid per share of $27.57.
(6)	Represents 115,373 shares of Class B Common Stock at an average price paid per share of $30.13.

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Information regarding the Company’s equity compensation plans is incorporated by reference from Item 12, “Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Shareholder Matters,” of this annual report on Form 10-K, and should be considered an integral part of this Item 5.

Performance Graph

The following graph shows the value as of December 31, 2016, of a $100 investment in the Company’s common stock made on December 31, 2011 (with dividends reinvested), as compared with similar investments based on (i) the value of the S&P 500 Index (with dividends reinvested) and (ii) the value of a market-weighted Peer Group Index composed of the common stock of PACCAR, Inc., Werner Enterprises, Inc., Penske Automotive Group, Inc. and Lithia Motors, Inc., in each case on a “total return” basis assuming reinvestment of dividends. The market-weighted Peer Group Index values were calculated from the beginning of the performance period. The historical stock price performance shown below is not necessarily indicative of future stock price performance.

	December 31,
	2011		2012		2013		2014		2015		2016
Rush Enterprises, Inc.	$	100.00	$	100.08	$	145.44	$	158.78	$	115.48	$	165.53
S&P 500		100.00		116.00		153.58		174.60		177.01		198.18
Peer Group		100.00		127.06		176.22		206.89		161.97		211.00

The foregoing performance graph shall not be deemed “soliciting material” or to be “filed” with the SEC for purposes of Section 18 of the Exchange Act, or otherwise subject to the liabilities under that Section, and shall not be deemed to be incorporated by reference into any filing of the Company under the Securities Act or the Exchange Act.

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Item 6. Selected Financial Data

The information below was derived from the audited consolidated financial statements included in this report and reports we have previously filed with the SEC. This information should be read together with those consolidated financial statements and the notes to those consolidated financial statements. These historical results are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected in the future. The selected financial data presented below may not be comparable between periods in all material respects or indicative of our future financial position or results of operations due primarily to acquisitions and discontinued operations which occurred during the periods presented. See Note 15 to the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements for a discussion of such acquisitions. The selected financial data presented below should be read in conjunction with our other financial information included elsewhere herein.

	Year Ended December 31,
	2016		2015			2014		2013		2012
	(in thousands, except per share amounts)
SUMMARY OF INCOME STATEMENT DATA
Revenues
New and used commercial vehicle sales	$	2,640,019	$	3,360,808		$	3,195,873	$	2,239,847	$	2,149,335
Parts and service sales		1,332,356		1,382,447			1,315,694		988,317		817,280
Lease and rental		208,154		199,867			177,561		129,638		100,247
Finance and insurance		18,582		21,150			19,988		15,320		13,638
Other		15,503		15,461			18,240		11,583		10,067
Total revenues		4,214,614		4,979,733			4,727,356		3,384,705		3,090,567
Cost of products sold		3,496,602		4,194,786			3,971,310		2,812,691		2,589,800
Gross profit		718,012		784,947			756,046		572,014		500,767
Selling, general and administrative		587,778		619,268			573,670		450,340		361,727
Depreciation and amortization		51,261		43,859			40,786		29,925		25,016
Gain (loss) on sale of assets		1,755		(544	)		151		5		176
Operating income		80,728		121,276			141,741		91,754		114,200
Interest expense, net		14,279		13,473			11,198		10,693		13,017
Income before income taxes		66,449		107,803			130,543		81,061		101,183
Provision (benefit) for income taxes		25,867		41,750			50,586		31,844		38,728
Net income	$	40,582	$	66,053		$	79,957	$	49,217	$	62,455
Earnings per common share - Basic:
Net income	$	1.02	$	1.64		$	2.01	$	1.25	$	1.62
Earnings per common share - Diluted:
Net income	$	1.00	$	1.61		$	1.96	$	1.22	$	1.57
Weighted average shares outstanding:
Basic		39,938		40,271			39,783		39,405		38,643
Diluted		40,603		41,093			40,894		40,506		39,688

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	Year Ended December 31,
	2016		2015		2014		2013		2012
OPERATING DATA
Unit vehicle sales −
New vehicles		23,627		29,780		27,459		19,931		18,427
Used vehicles		7,008		7,922		7,893		6,405		4,744
Total unit vehicles sales		30,635		37,702		35,352		26,336		23,171
Truck lease and rental units (including units under contract maintenance and crane units)		9,074		9,145		8,073		6,315		5,359

	December 31,
	2016		2015		2014		2013		2012
	(in thousands)
BALANCE SHEET DATA
Working capital	$	118,318	$	79,549	$	152,517	$	207,984	$	202,983
Inventories		840,304		1,061,198		1,024,104		802,220		690,953
Total assets		2,603,047		2,852,008		2,675,875		2,151,521		1,866,936
Floor plan notes payable		646,945		854,758		845,977		593,649		534,520
Long-term debt, including current portion		604,003		647,755		578,254		482,781		399,664
Capital lease obligations, including current portion		84,493		83,765		57,250		45,467		49,973
Total shareholders’ equity		862,825		844,897		764,339		665,381		607,946

Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

Overview

We are a full-service, integrated retailer of commercial vehicles and related services. We operate one segment - the Truck Segment. The Truck Segment operates a nationwide network of commercial vehicle dealerships under the name “Rush Truck Centers.” Each Rush Truck Center is a franchised dealership for commercial vehicles manufactured by Peterbilt, International, Hino, Ford, Isuzu, Mitsubishi Fuso, IC Bus or Blue Bird. Through our strategically located network of Rush Truck Centers, we provide one-stop service for the needs of our commercial vehicle customers. We offer an integrated approach to meeting customer needs by providing service, parts and collision repair in addition to new and used commercial vehicle sales and leasing, insurance and financial services, vehicle upfitting, CNG fuel systems, vehicle telematics products, chrome accessories and tires. 

Our goal is to continue to serve as the premier service solutions provider to the commercial vehicle industry. Our strategic efforts to achieve this goal include continuously expanding our portfolio of Aftermarket Services, broadening the diversity of our commercial vehicle product offerings and extending our network of service points. Our commitment to provide innovative solutions to service our customers’ business needs continues to drive our strong Aftermarket Services revenues.

Our Aftermarket Services include a wide range of capabilities and products such as providing parts, service and collision repair at certain of our Rush Truck Centers, a fleet of mobile service units, mobile technicians who work in our customers’ facilities, a proprietary line of commercial vehicle parts and accessories, vehicle upfitting, a broad range of diagnostic and analysis capabilities, a suite of telematics products, factory-certified service for alternative fuel vehicles and assembly service for specialized bodies and equipment. Aftermarket Services accounted for 67.0% of our total gross profits in 2016.

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Summary of 2016

Our results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2016 are summarized below as follows:

● Our gross revenues totaled $4,214.6 million in 2016, a 15.4% decrease from gross revenues of $4,979.7 million in 2015.

● Gross profit decreased $66.9 million, or 8.5%, in 2016, compared to 2015. Gross profit as a percentage of sales increased to 17.0% in 2016 from 15.8% in 2015.

● Our Class 8 heavy-duty unit sales, which accounted for 5.5% of the total U.S. market, decreased 35.9% over 2015.

● Our Class 4-7 medium-duty unit sales, which accounted for 4.9% of the total U.S. market, decreased 0.9% over 2015. Light-duty truck unit sales increased 0.7% compared to 2015.

● Aftermarket Services revenues were $1,332.4 million in 2016, compared to $1,382.4 million in 2015.

● Selling, General and Administrative expenses decreased $31.5 million, or 5.1%, in 2016, compared to 2015.

We also completed the following growth initiatives in 2016:

● We opened a newly constructed International and IC Bus dealership in Columbus, Ohio, consolidating two dealerships into one new location.

● We completed a major renovation of our Peterbilt, Ford and Isuzu dealership in Whittier, California.

● We relocated our Peterbilt dealership in Odessa, Texas, to a newly constructed, larger facility.

● On May 27, 2016, we acquired certain assets of Transwest Truck Center Las Vegas, LLC, which included a Ford truck franchise in Las Vegas, Nevada. The transaction was valued at approximately $0.8 million, with the purchase price paid in cash.

● Rush Truck Center, Denver moved to a newly constructed, expanded dealership facility.

● We opened a new Peterbilt dealership location in Bowling Green, Kentucky.

● We launched RushCare Service Connect, a technology platform that allows customers to receive real-time repair status updates about their vehicles in our shops through an online portal. This solution offers customers an enhanced, two-way communication and transparency about their vehicle status.

2017 Outlook

According to A.C.T. Research Co., LLC (“A.C.T. Research”), a commercial vehicle industry data and forecasting service provider, U. S. Class 8 retail sales are estimated to total 160,000 units in 2017, a 21.8% decrease compared to 196,901 units in 2016. We expect our Class 8 commercial vehicle sales will decrease consistent with the market in 2017.

According to A.C.T. Research, U. S. Class 4 through 7 retail sales are estimated to total 232,800 units, up 2.9% over 2016. We believe our Class 4 through 7 commercial vehicle sales will remain stable through 2017.

We continue to make progress on initiatives related to increasing parts sales and service technology.  We expect to see more significant financial results from these initiatives beginning in 2017.

Key Performance Indicator

Absorption Ratio. Management uses several performance metrics to evaluate the performance of our commercial vehicle dealerships and considers Rush Truck Centers’ “absorption ratio” to be of critical importance. Absorption ratio is calculated by dividing the gross profit from the parts, service and body shop departments by the overhead expenses of all of a dealership’s departments, except for the selling expenses of the new and used commercial vehicle departments and carrying costs of new and used commercial vehicle inventory. When 100% absorption is achieved, all of the gross profit from the sale of a commercial vehicle, after sales commissions and inventory carrying costs, directly impacts operating profit. In 1999, our commercial vehicle dealerships’ absorption ratio was approximately 80%. Since 1999, we have made a concerted effort to increase our absorption ratio. Our commercial vehicle dealerships achieved a 112.2% absorption ratio for the year ended December 31, 2016 and 115.6% absorption ratio for the year ended December 31, 2015.

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Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

Our discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations are based on our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. The preparation of these consolidated financial statements requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. There can be no assurance that actual results will not differ from those estimates. We believe the following accounting policies, which are also described in Note 2 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements, affect our more significant judgments and estimates used in the preparation of our consolidated financial statements.

Inventories

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market value. Cost is determined by specific identification of new and used commercial vehicles inventory and by the first-in, first-out method for tires, parts and accessories. As the market value of our inventory typically declines over time, reserves are established based on historical loss experience and market trends. These reserves are charged to cost of sales and reduce the carrying value of our inventory on hand. An allowance is provided when it is anticipated that cost will exceed net realizable value less a reasonable profit margin.

Goodwill

Goodwill is tested for impairment by reporting unit utilizing a two-step process at least annually, or more frequently when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the asset might be impaired. The first step requires us to compare the fair value of the reporting unit (we consider our Truck Segment to be a reporting unit for purposes of this analysis), which is the same as the segment, to the respective carrying value. If the fair value of the reporting unit exceeds its carrying value, the goodwill is not considered impaired. If the carrying value is greater than the fair value, there is an indication that impairment may exist and a second step is required. In the second step of the analysis, the implied fair value of the goodwill is calculated as the excess of the fair value of a reporting unit over the fair values assigned to its assets and liabilities. If the implied fair value of goodwill is less than the carrying value of the reporting unit’s goodwill, the difference is recognized as an impairment loss.

We determine the fair value of our reporting unit using the discounted cash flow method. The discounted cash flow method uses various assumptions and estimates regarding revenue growth rates, future gross margins, future selling, general and administrative expenses and an estimated weighted average cost of capital. The analysis is based upon available information regarding expected future cash flows of each reporting unit discounted at rates consistent with the cost of capital specific to the reporting unit. This type of analysis contains uncertainties because it requires us to make assumptions and to apply judgment regarding our knowledge of our industry, information provided by industry analysts, and our current business strategy in light of present industry and economic conditions. If any of these assumptions change, or fail to materialize, the resulting decline in our estimated fair value could result in a material impairment charge to the goodwill associated with the reporting unit.

We do not believe there is a reasonable likelihood that there will be a material change in the future estimates or assumptions we used to test for impairment losses on goodwill. However, if actual results are not consistent with our estimates or assumptions, or certain events occur that might adversely affect the reported value of goodwill in the future, we may be exposed to an impairment charge that could be material. Such events may include, but are not limited to, strategic decisions made in response to economic and competitive conditions or the impact of the current economic environment.

Goodwill was tested for impairment during the fourth quarter of 2016 and no impairment was required. The fair value of our reporting unit exceeded the carrying value of its net assets. As a result, we were not required to conduct the second step of the impairment test. We do not believe our reporting unit is at risk of failing step one of the impairment test.      

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Insurance Accruals

We are partially self-insured for a portion of the claims related to our property and casualty insurance programs, which requires us to make estimates regarding expected losses to be incurred. We engage a third-party administrator to assess any open claims and we adjust our accrual accordingly on a periodic basis. We are also partially self-insured for a portion of the claims related to our workers’ compensation and medical insurance programs. We use actuarial information provided from third-party administrators to calculate an accrual for claims incurred, but not reported, and for the remaining portion of claims that have been reported.

Changes in the frequency, severity, and development of existing claims could influence our reserve for claims and financial position, results of operations and cash flows. We do not believe there is a reasonable likelihood that there will be a material change in the estimates or assumptions we used to calculate our self-insured liabilities. However, if actual results are not consistent with our estimates or assumptions, we may be exposed to losses or gains that could be material. A 10% change in our estimate would have changed our reserve for these losses at December 31, 2016 by $0.9 million.

Accounting for Income Taxes

Management’s judgment is required to determine the provisions for income taxes and to determine whether deferred tax assets will be realized in full or in part. Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. When it is more likely than not that all or some portion of specific deferred income tax assets will not be realized, a valuation allowance must be established for the amount of deferred income tax assets that are determined not to be realizable. Accordingly, the facts and financial circumstances impacting state deferred income tax assets are reviewed quarterly and management’s judgment is applied to determine the amount of valuation allowance required, if any, in any given period.

Our income tax returns are periodically audited by tax authorities. These audits include questions regarding our tax filing positions, including the timing and amount of deductions. In evaluating the exposures associated with our various tax filing positions, we adjust our liability for unrecognized tax benefits and income tax provision in the period in which an uncertain tax position is effectively settled, the statute of limitations expires for the relevant taxing authority to examine the tax position, or when more information becomes available.

Our liability for unrecognized tax benefits contains uncertainties because management is required to make assumptions and to apply judgment to estimate the exposures associated with our various filing positions. Our effective income tax rate is also affected by changes in tax law, the level of earnings and the results of tax audits. Although we believe that the judgments and estimates are reasonable, actual results could differ, and we may be exposed to losses or gains that could be material. An unfavorable tax settlement generally would require use of our cash and result in an increase in our effective income tax rate in the period of resolution. A favorable tax settlement would be recognized as a reduction in our effective income tax rate in the period of resolution. Our income tax expense includes the impact of reserve provisions and changes to reserves that we consider appropriate, as well as related interest.

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities

From 2012 until 2015, we utilized derivative financial instruments to manage our interest rate risk relating to the variability of cash flows and changes in the fair value of our financial instruments caused by movements in interest rates. We assessed hedge effectiveness at the inception and during the term of each hedge. Derivatives are reported at fair value on the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets.

The effective portion of the gain or loss on our cash flow hedges are reported as a component of accumulated other comprehensive loss. Hedge effectiveness was assessed quarterly by comparing the changes in cumulative gain or loss from the interest rate swap with the cumulative changes in the present value of the expected future cash flows of the interest rate swap that are attributable to changes in the LIBOR rate.

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New Accounting Standards

In March 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-09, “Compensation – Stock Compensation (Topic 718),” which changes the accounting for certain aspects of share-based payments to employees. The new guidance requires excess tax benefits and tax deficiencies be recorded in the income statement when the awards vest or are settled. In addition, cash flows related to excess tax benefits will no longer be separately classified as a financing activity apart from other income tax cash flows. The standard also allows us to repurchase more of each employee’s shares for tax withholding purposes without triggering liability accounting, clarifies that all cash payments made on an employee’s behalf for withheld shares should be presented as a financing activity on our cash flows statement, and provides an accounting policy election to account for forfeitures as they occur. The new standard is effective for us beginning January 1, 2017. We do not expect the adoption to materially impact our consolidated financial statements.

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02, “Leases (Topic 842),” which is intended to increase the transparency and comparability among organizations by recognizing lease assets and lease liabilities on the balance sheet and disclosing key information about leasing arrangements. In order to meet that objective, the new standard requires recognition of the assets and liabilities that arise from leases. A lessee will be required to recognize on the balance sheet the assets and liabilities for leases with lease terms of more than 12 months.  Accounting by lessors will remain largely unchanged from current U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. The new standard is effective for public companies for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, and interim periods within those years, with early adoption permitted. We are currently evaluating the effect that adopting this standard will have on our financial statements and related disclosures.

In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606),” which amends the existing accounting standards for revenue recognition. ASU 2014-09 is based on principles that govern the recognition of revenue at an amount an entity expects to be entitled to when products are transferred to customers. ASU 2014-09 will be effective for us beginning in our first quarter of 2018, and early adoption is permitted. The ASU provides two transition methods: (i) retrospectively to each prior reporting period presented or (ii) retrospectively with the cumulative effect of initially applying this ASU recognized at the date of initial application.

Subsequently, the FASB issued the following standards related to ASU 2014-09: ASU No. 2016-08, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Principal versus Agent Considerations”; ASU No. 2016-10, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Identifying Performance Obligations and Licensing”; and ASU No. 2016-12, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Narrow-Scope Improvements and Practical Expedients.”

We will adopt ASU 2014-09 on January 1, 2018. In 2016, we established a cross-functional team with representatives from our major revenue streams to review our current accounting policies and practices, assess the effect of the standard on our revenue contracts and identify potential differences. In addition, we are in the process of evaluating changes to our business processes and controls to support recognition and disclosure under the new standard. While we are currently assessing the impact of the new standard, our revenue is primarily generated from the sale of finished products to customers. Those sales predominantly contain a single delivery element and revenue is recognized at a single point in time when ownership, risks and benefits transfer. The timing of revenue recognition for these transactions is not expected to be significantly impacted by the new standard. We continue to review the impact of this standard on potential disclosure changes in our financial statements as well as which transition approach will be applied.

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Results of Operations

The following discussion and analysis includes our historical results of operations for 2016, 2015 and 2014. The following table sets forth for the years indicated certain financial data as a percentage of total revenues:

	Year Ended December 31,
	2016			2015			2014
New and used commercial vehicle sales		62.6	%		67.5	%		67.6	%
Parts and service sales		31.6			27.8			27.8
Lease and rental		5.0			4.0			3.8
Finance and insurance		0.4			0.4			0.4
Other		0.4			0.3			0.4
Total revenues		100.0			100.0			100.0
Cost of products sold		83.0			84.2			84.0
Gross profit		17.0			15.8			16.0
Selling, general and administrative		13.9			12.4			12.1
Depreciation and amortization		1.2			0.9			0.9
Operating income		1.9			2.5			3.0
Interest expense, net		0.3			0.3			0.2
Income from continuing operations before income taxes		1.6			2.2			2.8
Provision for income taxes		0.6			0.8			1.1
Net income		1.0	%		1.4	%		1.7	%

The following table sets forth the unit sales and revenue for new heavy-duty, new medium-duty, new light-duty and used commercial vehicles and the absorption ratio for the years indicated (revenue in millions):

										% Change
	2016			2015			2014			2016 vs 2015			2015 vs 2014
Vehicle unit sales:
New heavy-duty vehicles		10,816			16,874			15,833			-35.9	%		6.6	%
New medium-duty vehicles		11,135			11,241			9,922			-0.9	%		13.3	%
New light-duty vehicles		1,676			1,665			1,704			0.7	%		-2.3	%
Total new vehicle unit sales		23,627			29,780			27,459			-20.7	%		8.4	%
Used vehicles sales		7,008			7,922			7,893			-11.5	%		0.3	%
Vehicle revenue:
New heavy-duty vehicles	$	1,455.8		$	2,133.2		$	2,087.4			-31.8	%		2.2	%
New medium-duty vehicles		811.7			808.9			708.9			0.3	%		14.1	%
New light-duty vehicles		63.6			60.2			58.2			5.6	%		3.4	%
Total new vehicle revenue	$	2,331.1		$	3,002.3		$	2,854.5			-22.4	%		5.2	%
Used vehicle revenue	$	289.4		$	338.7		$	327.7			-14.6	%		3.4	%
Other vehicle revenue:(1)	$	19.5		$	19.8		$	13.7			-1.5	%		44.5	%
Dealership absorption ratio:		112.2	%		115.6	%		117.8	%		-2.9	%		-1.9	%

(1) Includes sales of truck bodies, trailers and other new equipment.

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The following table sets forth for the periods indicated the percent of gross profit by revenue source:

	2016			2015			2014
Gross Profit:
New and used commercial vehicle sales		24.6	%		28.3	%		29.1	%
Parts and service sales		67.0			64.1			62.6
Lease and rental		3.6			2.9			3.3
Finance and insurance		2.6			2.7			2.6
Other		2.2			2.0			2.4
Total gross profit		100.0	%		100.0	%		100.0	%

Industry

We operate in the commercial vehicle market. There has historically been a high correlation between new product sales in the commercial vehicle market and the rate of change in U.S. industrial production and the U.S. gross domestic product.

Heavy-Duty Truck Market

The U.S. retail heavy-duty truck market is affected by a number of factors relating to general economic conditions, including fuel prices, government regulation, interest rate fluctuations, economic recessions, other methods of transportation and customer business cycles. Accordingly, unit sales of new commercial vehicles have historically been subject to substantial cyclical variation based on general economic conditions. According to data published by A.C.T. Research, over the last 10 years total U.S. retail sales of new Class 8 trucks have ranged from a low of approximately 97,000 in 2009 to a high of approximately 253,000 in 2015. Class 8 trucks are defined by the American Automobile Association as trucks with a minimum gross vehicle weight rating above 33,000 pounds.

Typically, Class 8 trucks are assembled by manufacturers utilizing certain components that may be manufactured by other companies, including engines, transmissions, axles, wheels and other components. As commercial vehicles and certain commercial vehicle components have become increasingly complex, the ability to provide state-of-the-art service for commercial vehicles has become a competitive factor in the industry. The ability to provide such service requires a significant capital investment in diagnostic and other equipment, parts inventory and highly trained service personnel. EPA and DOT regulatory guidelines for service processes, including body shop, paint work and waste disposal, require sophisticated operating and testing equipment to ensure compliance with environmental and safety standards. Differentiation between commercial vehicle dealers has become less dependent on price competition and is increasingly based on a dealer’s ability to offer a wide variety of services to their clients in a timely manner to minimize vehicle downtime. Such services include the following: efficient, conveniently located and easily accessible commercial vehicle service centers with an adequate supply of replacement parts; financing for commercial vehicle purchases; leasing and rental programs; and the ability to accept multiple unit trade-ins related to large fleet purchases. We believe our one-stop center concept and the size and geographic diversity of our dealership network gives us a competitive advantage in providing these services.

A.C.T. Research currently estimates approximately 160,000 new Class 8 trucks will be sold in the United States in 2017, compared to approximately 196,901 new Class 8 trucks sold in 2016. A.C.T. Research currently forecasts sales of new Class 8 trucks in the U.S. to be approximately 186,000 in 2018.

Medium-Duty Truck Market

Many of our Rush Truck Centers sell medium-duty commercial vehicles manufactured by Peterbilt, International, Hino, Ford, Mitsubishi Fuso or Isuzu, and all of our Rush Truck Centers provide parts and service for medium-duty commercial vehicles. Medium-duty commercial vehicles are principally used in short-haul, local markets as delivery vehicles. Medium-duty commercial vehicles typically operate locally and generally do not leave their service areas overnight. We also sell light-duty vehicles (Class 3 and under) at five of our Ford dealerships.

A.C.T. Research currently forecasts sales of new Class 4 through 7 commercial vehicles in the U.S. to be approximately 232,800 in 2017, compared to 226,258 in 2016. A.C.T. Research currently forecasts sales of new Class 4 through 7 commercial vehicles in the U.S. to be approximately 236,800 in 2018. 

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Year Ended December 31, 2016 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2015

Revenues

Total revenues decreased $765.1 million, or 15.4%, in 2016, compared to 2015.

Our Aftermarket Services revenues decreased $50.1 million, or 3.6%, in 2016, compared to 2015. This decrease was primarily due to continued softness in the energy sector, consolidation of Navistar dealership locations in the second quarter of 2016 and an industry-wide decrease in parts sales according to McKay & Company, a marketing research and management consulting firm.

Revenues from sales of new and used commercial vehicles decreased $720.8 million, or 21.4%, in 2016, compared to 2015. Our Class 8 new commercial vehicle sales in 2016 were severely impacted by a significantly weaker Class 8 commercial vehicle market.

We sold 10,816 heavy-duty trucks in 2016, a 35.9% decrease compared to 16,874 heavy-duty trucks in 2015. Our heavy-duty new truck sales in 2016 were impacted by a significantly weaker commercial vehicle market and decreased sales to some of our largest fleet customers. According to A.C.T. Research, U.S. Class 8 retail sales totaled 196,901 in 2016, a decrease of approximately 22.2%, compared to 2015. The decrease in demand for Class 8 trucks since 2015 has resulted from erratic freight demand, weak used truck prices and excess capacity. Our share of the U.S. Class 8 commercial vehicle sales market decreased to approximately 5.5% in 2016, from 6.7% in 2015. We expect our U.S. Class 8 commercial vehicle sales market share to range between 5.5% and 6.0% in 2017. This market share percentage would result in the sale of approximately 8,800 to 9,600 of Class 8 commercial vehicles in 2017, based on A.C.T. Research’s current U.S. retail sales estimate of 160,000 units.

We sold 11,135 medium-duty commercial vehicles, including 1,132 buses, in 2016, a 0.9% decrease compared to 11,241 medium-duty commercial vehicles, including 1,140 buses, in 2015. According to A.C.T. Research, U.S. Class 4 through 7 retail sales totaled 226,258 in 2016, an increase of approximately 3.7%, compared to 2015. In 2016, we achieved a 4.9% share of the Class 4 through 7 market in the U.S. We expect our market share to range between 4.9% and 5.5% of the U.S. Class 4 through 7 commercial vehicle sales in 2017. This market share percentage would result in the sale of approximately 11,400 to 12,800 of Class 4 through 7 commercial vehicles in 2017, based on A.C.T. Research’s current U.S. retail sales estimates of 233,800 units.

We sold 1,676 light-duty vehicles in 2016, a 0.7% increase compared to 1,665 light-duty vehicles in 2015. We expect to sell approximately 1,700 light-duty vehicles in 2017.

We sold 7,008 used commercial vehicles in 2016, an 11.5% decrease compared to 7,922 used commercial vehicles in 2015. This decrease was primarily the result of an oversupply of used Class 8 trucks for sale across the U.S. as a result of decreased demand. We expect to sell approximately 6,200 to 7,000 used commercial vehicles in 2017.

Commercial vehicle lease and rental revenues increased $8.3 million, or 4.1%, in 2016, compared to 2015. We expect lease and rental revenue to increase 5% to 10% during 2017, compared to 2016.

Finance and insurance revenues decreased $2.6 million, or 12.1%, in 2016, compared to 2015. The decrease in finance and insurance revenue was primarily a result of the decrease in new and used commercial vehicle sales in 2016. We expect finance and insurance revenue to fluctuate proportionately with our new and used commercial vehicle sales in 2017. Finance and insurance revenues have limited direct costs and, therefore, contribute a disproportionate share of our operating profits.

Other income remained flat at $15.5 million in 2016 when compared to 2015. Other income consists primarily of the gain on sale realized on trucks from the lease and rental fleet, document fees related to commercial vehicle sales and income from Central California Truck and Trailer Sales, LLC (“CCTTS”), our joint venture that operates non-franchised used commercial vehicle sales facilities in California and Arizona.

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Gross Profit

Gross profit decreased $66.9 million, or 8.5%, in 2016, compared to 2015. This decrease was primarily the result of decreased sales of new and used Class 8 commercial vehicles. Gross profit as a percentage of sales increased to 17.0% in 2016, from 15.8% in 2015. This increase in gross profit as a percentage of sales is a result of a change in our product sales mix. Commercial vehicle sales, a lower margin revenue item, decreased as a percentage of total revenues to 62.6% in 2016, from 67.5% in 2015. Aftermarket Services revenues, a higher margin revenue item, increased as a percentage of total revenues to 31.6% in 2016, from 27.8% in 2015.

Gross margins from our Aftermarket Services operations decreased to 36.1% in 2016, from 36.4% in 2015. Gross profit for Aftermarket Services decreased to $480.9 million in 2016, from $503.3 million in 2015. Historically, parts operations’ gross margins range from 27% to 28% and service and body shop operations range from 67% to 68%. Gross profits from parts sales represented 55.8% of total gross profit for Aftermarket Services operations in 2016 and 55.5% in 2015. Service and body shop operations represented 44.2% of total gross profit for Aftermarket Services operations in 2016 and 44.5% 2015. We expect blended gross margins on Aftermarket Services operations to range from 36.0% to 36.3% in 2017.

Gross margins on Class 8 commercial vehicle sales increased to 7.0% in 2016, from 6.5% in 2015. This increase is attributable to the sales mix in 2016, which consisted of fewer sales to large fleet customers. In 2017, we expect overall gross margins from Class 8 commercial vehicle sales of approximately 6.5% to 7.0%. We recorded a net charge to cost of sales of $3.2 million to increase our new heavy-duty commercial vehicle valuation allowance in 2016, compared to $1.5 million in 2015.

Gross margins on medium-duty commercial vehicle sales increased to 6.0% in 2016, from 5.9% in 2015. For 2017, we expect overall gross margins from Class 4 through 7 commercial vehicle sales of approximately 5.7% to 6.2%, but this will largely depend upon the mix of purchasers and types of vehicles sold. We recorded a net charge to cost of sales of $1.1 million to increase our new medium-duty commercial vehicle valuation allowance in 2016, compared to $1.9 million in 2015.

Gross margins on used commercial vehicle sales decreased to 8.1% in 2016, from 9.6% in 2015. This decrease is primarily related to a significant decline in used commercial vehicle values caused by the oversupply of used Class 8 commercial vehicles for sale across the United States. We expect margins on used commercial vehicles to range between 7.0% and 8.0% during 2017. We recorded a net charge to cost of sales of $5.1 million to increase our used commercial vehicle valuation allowance in 2016, compared to $4.7 million in 2015.

Gross margins from commercial vehicle lease and rental sales increased to 12.5% in 2016, from 11.5% in 2015. We expect gross margins from lease and rental sales of approximately 12.0% to 13.0% during 2017. Our policy is to depreciate our lease and rental fleet using a straight line method over each customer’s contractual lease term. The lease unit is depreciated to a residual value that approximates fair value at the expiration of the lease term. This policy results in the Company realizing reasonable gross margins while the unit is in service and a corresponding gain or loss on sale when the unit is sold at the end of the lease term.

Finance and insurance revenues and other income, as described above, have limited direct costs and, therefore, contribute a disproportionate share of gross profit.

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

Selling, General and Administrative (“SG&A”) expenses decreased $31.5 million, or 5.1%, in 2016, compared to 2015. SG&A expenses as a percentage of total revenues increased to 14.0% in 2016, from 12.4% in 2015. SG&A expenses as a percentage of total revenues have recently ranged from 12.1% to 14.7%. In general, when new and used commercial vehicle revenues decrease as a percentage of total revenues, SG&A expenses as a percentage of total revenues will be at, or exceed, the higher end of this range. For 2017, we expect SG&A expenses as a percentage of total revenues to range from 13.9% to 14.5% and the selling portion of SG&A expenses to be approximately 25.0% to 30.0% of new and used commercial vehicle gross profit.

Depreciation and Amortization Expense

Depreciation and amortization expense increased $7.4 million, or 16.9%, in 2016, compared to 2015. This increase was primarily due to the construction of new dealerships and existing dealership expansions

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Interest Expense, Net

Net interest expense increased $0.8 million, or 6.0%, in 2016, compared to 2015. Net interest expense in 2017 will depend on inventory levels, interest rate fluctuations and the amount of cash available to make prepayments on our floor plan arrangements.

Income before Income Taxes

Income before income taxes decreased $41.4 million, or 38.4%, in 2016, compared to 2015, as a result of the factors described above.

Income Taxes 

Income taxes decreased $15.9 million in 2016, compared to 2015. We provided for taxes at a 38.9% effective rate in 2016, compared to an effective rate of 38.73% in 2015. We expect our effective tax rate to be approximately 38.5% to 39.0% of pretax income in 2017.

Year Ended December 31, 2015 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2014

Revenues

Revenues increased $252.4 million, or 5.3%, in 2015, compared to 2014.

Our Aftermarket Services revenues increased $66.8 million, or 5.1%, in 2015, compared to 2014. This increase was the result of acquisitions in 2014 and overall strong demand for repair and maintenance of vehicles.

Revenues from sales of new and used commercial vehicles increased $164.9 million, or 5.2%, in 2015, compared to 2014.

We sold 16,874 Class 8 commercial vehicles in 2015, a 6.6% increase compared to 15,833 heavy-duty commercial vehicles in 2014. According to A.C.T. Research, U.S. Class 8 retail sales totaled 253,000 in 2015, an increase of approximately 12.9%, compared to 2014. Our share of the U.S. Class 8 truck market decreased to approximately 6.7% in 2015, from 7.1% in 2014.

We sold 11,241 medium-duty commercial vehicles, including 1,140 buses, in 2015, a 13.3% increase compared to 9,922 medium-duty commercial vehicles, including 1,504 buses, in 2014. According to A.C.T. Research, U.S. Class 4 through 7 retail sales totaled 218,350 in 2015, an increase of approximately 8.3%, compared to 2014. In 2015, we achieved a 5.2% share of the Class 4 through 7 market in the U.S.

We sold 1,665 light-duty vehicles in 2015, a 2.3% decrease compared to 1,704 light-duty vehicles in 2014.

We sold 7,922 used commercial vehicles in 2015, a 0.4% increase compared to 7,893 used commercial vehicles in 2014.

Commercial vehicle lease and rental revenues increased $22.3 million, or 12.6%, in 2015, compared to 2014. The increase in lease and rental revenues was primarily due to the increased number of units put into service in the lease and rental fleet.

Finance and insurance revenues increased $1.2 million, or 5.8%, in 2015, compared to 2014. The increase in finance and insurance revenue was primarily a result of the increase in finance penetration rates and increased activity in our insurance business.

Other income decreased $2.8 million, or 15.2% in 2015, compared to 2014. Other income consists primarily of the gain on sale realized on commercial vehicles from the lease and rental fleet, document fees related to commercial vehicle sales and income from CCTTS, our joint venture.

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Gross Profit

Gross profit increased $28.9 million, or 3.8%, in 2015, compared to 2014. Gross profit as a percentage of sales decreased to 15.8% in 2015, from 16.0% in 2014, primarily as a result of the decrease in overall commercial vehicle sales margins in 2015.

Gross margins from our Aftermarket Services operations increased to 36.4% in 2015, from 36.0% in 2014. Gross profit for Aftermarket Services increased to $503.3 million in 2015, from $473.3 million in 2014. Historically, parts operations’ gross margins range from 27% to 28% and service and body shop operations range from 67% to 68%. Gross profits from parts sales represented 55.5% of total gross profit for Aftermarket Services operations in 2015 and 55.2% in 2014. Service and body shop operations represented 44.5% of total gross profit for Aftermarket Services operations in 2015 and 44.8% 2014.

Gross margins on Class 8 commercial vehicle sales decreased to 6.5% in 2015, from 7.1% in 2014. This decrease was attributable to the sales mix in 2015, which consisted of more sales to large fleet customers, a lower margin revenue item. We recorded a net charge to cost of sales of $1.5 million to increase our new Class 8 commercial vehicle valuation allowance in 2015, compared to $1.1 million in 2014.

Gross margins on medium-duty commercial vehicle sales increased to 5.9% in 2015, from 5.6% in 2014. We recorded a net charge to cost of sales of $1.9 million to increase our new medium-duty commercial vehicle valuation allowance in 2015, compared to $1.6 million in 2014.

Gross margins on used commercial vehicle sales increased to 9.6% in 2015, from 9.0% in 2014. We recorded a net charge to cost of sales of $4.7 million to increase our used commercial vehicle valuation allowance in 2015, compared to $5.0 million in 2014.

Gross margins from commercial vehicle lease and rental sales decreased to 11.5% in 2015, from 13.9% in 2014. This decrease was primarily related to the decrease in drilling activity in the energy sector and related business activity and the decrease in demand for Class 8 commercial vehicles in rental operations due to overcapacity.

Finance and insurance revenues and other income, as described above, have limited direct costs and, therefore, contribute a disproportionate share of gross profit.

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

SG&A expenses increased $45.6 million, or 7.9%, in 2015, compared to 2014. SG&A expenses as a percentage of total revenues increased to 12.4% in 2015, from 12.1% in 2014.

Depreciation and Amortization Expense

Depreciation and amortization expense increased $3.1 million, or 7.5%, in 2015 compared to 2014. This increase was primarily due to the construction of new dealerships, dealership expansions and acquisitions. In 2014 we initiated a plan to sell our corporate aircraft and determined that the carrying value of the corporate aircraft was no longer recoverable. We recognized a $3.4 million pre-tax non-cash asset impairment charge during the year ended December 31, 2014. The impairment loss was included in depreciation and amortization expense on the Consolidated Statements of Income. This corporate aircraft was sold in connection with the purchase of a replacement aircraft in 2015.

Interest Expense, Net

Net interest expense increased $2.3 million, or 20.3%, in 2015, compared to 2014. This increase in interest expense was primarily related to higher commercial vehicle inventory levels and decreased prepayments on our Floor Plan Credit Agreement.

Income before Income Taxes

Income before income taxes decreased $22.7 million in 2015, compared to 2014, as a result of the factors described above.

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Income Taxes 

Income taxes decreased $8.8 million in 2015, compared to 2014. We provided for taxes at a 38.73% effective rate in 2015, compared to an effective rate of 38.75% in 2014.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Our short-term cash requirements are primarily for working capital, inventory financing, the renovation and expansion of existing facilities and the construction or purchase of new facilities. Historically, these cash requirements have been met through the retention of profits, borrowings under our floor plan arrangements and bank financings. As of December 31, 2016, we had working capital of approximately $118.3 million, including $82.0 million in cash, available to fund our operations. We believe that these funds are sufficient to meet our operating requirements for at least the next twelve months. From time to time, we utilize our excess cash on hand to pay down outstanding borrowings under our Floor Plan Credit Agreement, and the resulting interest earned is recognized as an offset to our gross interest expense under the credit agreement.

We have a secured line of credit that provides for a maximum borrowing of $17.5 million. There were no advances outstanding under this secured line of credit at December 31, 2016, however, $12.0 million was pledged to secure various letters of credit related to self-insurance products, leaving $5.5 million available for future borrowings as of December 31, 2016.

Our long-term real estate debt and floor plan financing agreements require us to satisfy various financial ratios such as the debt-to-worth ratio, leverage ratio and the fixed charge coverage ratio and certain requirements for tangible net worth and GAAP net worth. As of December 31, 2016, we were in compliance with all debt covenants related to debt secured by real estate, lease and rental units and our floor plan credit agreements. We do not anticipate any breach of the covenants in the foreseeable future.

We expect to purchase or lease commercial vehicles worth approximately $150.0 million to $160.0 million for our leasing operations during 2017, depending on customer demand, all of which will be financed. We also expect to make capital expenditures for recurring items such as computers, shop tools and equipment and vehicles of approximately $20.0 million to $25.0 million during 2017.

We purchased real estate in Las Vegas, Nevada at a cost of $4.7 million in February 2017.

On November 30, 2016, we announced that our Board of Directors authorized the repurchase, from time to time, of up to an aggregate of $40.0 million shares of Class A Common Stock and/or Class B Common Stock. Repurchases, if any, will be made at times and in amounts as we deem appropriate and may be made through open market transactions at prevailing market prices, privately negotiated transactions or by other means in accordance with federal securities laws. The actual timing, number and value of repurchases under the stock repurchase program will be determined by management at its discretion and will depend on a number of factors, including market conditions, stock price and other factors, including those related to the ownership requirements of our dealership agreements with Peterbilt. The stock repurchase program expires on November 30, 2017, and may be suspended or discontinued at any time.

We anticipate funding the capital expenditures for the improvement and expansion of existing facilities and recurring expenses through our operating cash flows. We have the ability to fund the construction or purchase of new facilities through our operating cash flows or by financing 70% to 80% of the appraised value of such facility.

We have no other material commitments for capital expenditures as of December 31, 2016, except that we will continue to purchase vehicles for our lease and rental division and authorize capital expenditures for improvement and expansion of our existing dealership facilities and construction or purchase of new facilities based on market opportunities.

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Cash Flows

Cash and cash equivalents increased by $17.2 million during the year ended December 31, 2016, compared to the year ended December 31, 2015, and decreased by $126.6 million during the year ended December 31, 2015, compared to the year ended December 31, 2014. The major components of these changes are discussed below.

Cash Flows from Operating Activities

Cash flows from operating activities include net income adjusted for non-cash items and the effects of changes in working capital. During 2016, operating activities resulted in net cash provided by operations of $521.2 million. Net cash provided by operating activities primarily consisted of $40.6 million in net income, as well as non-cash adjustments related to depreciation and amortization of $157.6 million, impairment of assets of $8.2 million, deferred income taxes of $8.3 million and stock-based compensation of $12.9 million. See Note 21 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for a detailed discussion of the impairment of assets. Cash used in operating activities included an aggregate of $295.0 million net change in operating assets and liabilities. Included in the net change in operating assets and liabilities were cash inflows of $1.7 million from a decrease in accounts receivable, $291.8 million from decreases in inventory, $31.7 million from the decrease in other current assets and $4.0 million from the net increase in floor plan, trade borrowings, which were offset by cash outflows of $4.0 million from a decrease in customer deposits, and $22.6 million from decreases in accounts payable and accrued liabilities. The majority of commercial vehicle inventory is financed through our floor plan credit agreements.

During 2015, operating activities resulted in net cash provided by operations of $227.3 million. Net cash provided by operating activities primarily consisted of $66.1 million in net income, as well as non-cash adjustments related to depreciation and amortization of $144.9 million, deferred income taxes of $31.6 million and stock-based compensation of $12.4 million. Cash used in operating activities included an aggregate of $28.6 million net change in operating assets and liabilities. Included in the net change in operating assets and liabilities were cash inflows of $11.9 million from a decrease in accounts receivable and $18.7 million from decreases in inventory, net of acquisitions, which were offset by cash outflows of $3.7 million from an increase in other current assets, $17.0 million from the net decrease in floor plan, trade borrowings, $22.4 million from a decrease in customer deposits, and $16.2 million from decreases in accounts payable and accrued liabilities.

In June 2012, we entered into a wholesale financing agreement with Ford Motor Credit Company that provides for the financing of, and is collateralized by, our Ford new vehicle inventory. This wholesale financing agreement bears interest at a rate of Prime plus 150 basis points minus certain incentives and rebates; however, the prime rate is defined to be a minimum of 3.75%. As of December 31, 2016, the interest rate on the wholesale financing agreement was 5.25% before considering the applicable incentives. As of December 31, 2016, we had an outstanding balance of approximately $66.4 million under the Ford Motor Credit Company wholesale financing agreement.

Cash Flows from Investing Activities

During 2016, cash used in investing activities was $189.4 million. Cash flows used in investing activities consist primarily of cash used for capital expenditures and business acquisitions. Capital expenditures of $197.0 million consisted primarily of $67.0 million for purchases of property and equipment and improvements to our existing dealership facilities and $130.0 million for additional units for the rental and leasing operations, which were directly offset by borrowings of long-term debt. We expect to purchase or lease commercial vehicles worth approximately $150.0 million to $160.0 million for our leasing operations in 2017, depending on customer demand, all of which will be financed. During 2017, we expect to make capital expenditures for recurring items such as computers, shop equipment and vehicles of $20.0 million to $25.0 million.

During 2015, cash used in investing activities was $436.2 million. Cash flows used in investing activities consist primarily of cash used for capital expenditures and business acquisitions. Capital expenditures of $367.8 million consisted primarily of $190.2 million for purchases of property and equipment and improvements to our existing dealership facilities and $177.6 million for additional units for the rental and leasing operations, which were directly offset by borrowings of long-term debt. Cash used for business acquisitions was $69.0 million during the year ended December 31, 2015. See Note 15 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for a detailed discussion of the business acquisitions.

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Cash Flows from Financing Activities

Cash flows provided by financing activities include borrowings and repayments of long-term debt and net payments of floor plan notes payable. During 2016, we used $314.6 million for financing activities. The cash outflows consisted primarily of $188.4 million used for principal repayments of long-term debt and capital lease obligations, $211.8 million used for net payments on floor plan notes payable, non-trade and $43.5 million used to purchase 934,171 shares of Rush Class A common stock and 1,033,834 shares of Rush Class B common stock during 2016. These cash outflows were partially offset by borrowings of $121.2 million of long-term debt and $8.3 million from the issuance of shares related to equity compensation plans. The borrowings of long-term debt were related to purchasing units for the rental and leasing operations.

During 2015, we generated $82.4 million in net cash flow from financing activities, primarily related to borrowings of $218.0 million of long-term debt, $31.6 million from net draws on floor plan notes payable, non-trade and $3.8 million from the issuance of shares related to equity compensation plans. These cash inflows were partially offset by cash outflows of $169.2 million used for principal repayments of long-term debt and capital lease obligations and $1.5 million used to purchase 56,077 shares of Rush Class B common stock during 2015. The borrowings of long-term debt were primarily related to purchasing units for the rental and leasing operations.

Most of our commercial vehicle purchases are made on terms requiring payment to the manufacturer within 15 days or less from the date the commercial vehicles are invoiced from the factory. During 2016, we financed the majority of all new commercial vehicle inventory and the loan value of our used commercial vehicle inventory under the Floor Plan Credit Agreement. The Floor Plan Credit Agreement includes an aggregate loan commitment of $875.0 million. Borrowings under the Floor Plan Credit Agreement bear interest at an annual rate equal to (A) the greater of (i) zero and (ii) three month LIBOR rate, determined on the last day of the prior month, plus (B) 1.51% and are payable monthly. In addition, we are required to pay a monthly working capital fee equal to 0.16% per annum multiplied by the amount of voluntary prepayments of new and used inventory loans. Loans under the Floor Plan Credit Agreement for the purchase of used inventory are limited to $150.0 million. We may terminate the Floor Plan Credit Agreement at any time, although if we do so we must pay a prepayment processing fee equal to: (i) 2.0% of the aggregate revolving loan commitments if such termination occurs on or before January 1, 2018; (ii) 1.0% of the aggregate revolving loan commitments if such termination occurs after January 1, 2018 and on or prior to July 1, 2018; and (iii) $500,000 if such termination occurs after July 1, 2018 and prior to June 30, 2019, subject to specified limited exceptions. On December 31, 2016, we had approximately $548.1 million outstanding under the Floor Plan Credit Agreement. The average daily outstanding borrowings under the Floor Plan Credit Agreement were $632.8 million during the twelve months ended December 31, 2016. Periodically, we utilize our excess cash on hand to pay down our outstanding borrowings under the Floor Plan Credit Agreement, and the resulting interest earned is recognized as an offset to our gross interest expense under the Floor Plan Credit Agreement.

Navistar Financial Corporation and Peterbilt offer trade terms that provide an interest-free inventory stocking period for certain new commercial vehicles. This interest-free period is generally 15 days. If the commercial vehicle is not sold within the interest-free period, we then finance the commercial vehicle under the Floor Plan Credit Agreement.

Cyclicality

Our business is dependent on a number of factors relating to general economic conditions, including fuel prices, interest rate fluctuations, credit availability, economic recessions, environmental and other government regulations and customer business cycles. Unit sales of new commercial vehicles have historically been subject to substantial cyclical variation based on these general economic conditions. According to data published by A.C.T. Research, in recent years, total U.S. retail sales of new Class 8 commercial vehicles have ranged from a low of approximately 97,000 in 2009, to a high of approximately 291,000 in 2006. Through geographic expansion, concentration on higher margin Aftermarket Services and diversification of our customer base, we have attempted to reduce the negative impact of adverse general economic conditions or cyclical trends affecting the Class 8 commercial vehicle industry on our earnings.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

Other than operating leases, we do not have any obligation under any transaction, agreement or other contractual arrangement to which an entity unconsolidated with the Company is a party, that has or is reasonably likely to have a material effect on our financial condition, changes in financial condition, revenues or expenses, results of operations, liquidity, capital expenditures or capital resources that is material to investors. A summary of our operating lease obligations by fiscal year is included in the “Contractual Obligations” section below.

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Contractual Obligations

We have certain contractual obligations that will impact our short and long-term liquidity. At December 31, 2016, such obligations were as follows (in thousands):

	Payments Due by Period
Contractual Obligations	Total		Less than 1 year		1-3 years		3-5 years		More than 5 years
	(in thousands)
Long-term debt obligations (1)	$	603,220	$	130,717	$	248,579	$	178,480	$	45,444
Capital lease obligations(2)		92,526		17,029		35,921		27,913		11,663
Liability related to asset held for sale		783		783		−		−		−
Operating lease obligations(3)		44,275		9,282		12,479		5,987		16,527
Floor plan debt obligation		646,945		646,945		−		−		−
Interest obligations (4)		71,008		35,467		25,588		9,073		880
Purchase obligations (5)		23,015		10,689		4,753		4,498		3,075
Total	$	1,481,772	$	850,912	$	327,320	$	225,951	$	77,589

(1)     Refer to Note 8 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

(2)     Refer to Note 10 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. Amounts include interest.

(3)     Refer to Note 10 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

(4)     In computing interest expense, we used our weighted average interest rate outstanding on fixed rate debt to estimate our interest expense on fixed rate debt. We used our weighted average variable interest rate on outstanding variable rate debt at December 31, 2016, and added 0.25 percent per year to estimate our interest expense on variable rate debt.

(5)     Purchase obligations represent non-cancelable contractual obligations at December 31, 2016, related to our construction contract for a facility in Houston, Texas, our purchase of real estate in Las Vegas, Nevada in February 2017 and our contract with IBM for management services related to the SAP enterprise software and dealership management system and SAP America, Inc. with respect to the software license agreement for the SAP enterprise software and dealership management system.

Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

Market risk represents the risk of loss that may impact the financial position, results of operations, or cash flows of the Company due to adverse changes in financial market prices, including interest rate risk, and other relevant market rate or price risks.

We are exposed to some market risk through interest rates related to our floor plan financing agreements, variable rate real estate debt and discount rates related to finance sales. The majority of floor plan debt and variable rate real estate debt is based on LIBOR. As of December 31, 2016, we had floor plan borrowings and variable interest rate real estate debt of approximately $755.6 million. Assuming an increase or decrease in LIBOR of 100 basis points, annual interest expense could correspondingly increase or decrease by approximately $7.6 million.

In the past, we invested in interest-bearing short-term investments consisting of investment-grade auction rate securities classified as available-for-sale. Auctions for investment grade securities held by us have failed. The auction rate securities continue to pay interest in accordance with the terms of the underlying security; however, liquidity will be limited until there is a successful auction or until such time as other markets for these investments develop. As of December 31, 2016, we hold auction rate securities, with underlying tax-exempt municipal bonds that mature in 2030, that have a fair value of $6.2 million. Given the current market conditions in the auction rate securities market, if we determine that the fair value of these securities temporarily decreases by an additional 10%, our equity could correspondingly decrease by approximately $620,000. If it is determined that the fair value of these securities is other-than-temporarily impaired by 10%, we could record a loss on our Consolidated Statements of Income of approximately $620,000. For further discussion of the risks related to our auction rate securities, see Note 9 – Financial Instruments and Fair Value of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

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Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm	41
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm on Internal Control over Financial Reporting	74
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2016 and 2015	42
Consolidated Statements of Income for the Years Ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014	43
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the Years Ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014	44
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity for the Years Ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014	45
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Years Ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014	46
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements	47

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Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

The Board of Directors and Shareholders of Rush Enterprises, Inc. and subsidiaries

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Rush Enterprises, Inc. and subsidiaries (“the Company”) as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, shareholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2016. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of Rush Enterprises, Inc. and subsidiaries at December 31, 2016 and 2015, and the consolidated results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2016, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), Rush Enterprises, Inc.’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2016, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (2013 framework) and our report dated March 1, 2017 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.

/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

San Antonio, Texas

March 1, 2017

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CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(In Thousands, Except Shares and Per Share Amounts)

	December 31,			December 31,
	2016			2015
Assets
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	82,026		$	64,847
Accounts receivable, net		156,199			156,977
Note receivable affiliate		10,166			10,611
Inventories, net		840,304			1,061,198
Prepaid expenses and other		8,798			32,953
Assets held for sale		13,955			–
Total current assets		1,111,448			1,326,586
Investments		6,231			6,650
Property and equipment, net		1,135,805			1,172,824
Goodwill, net		290,191			285,041
Other assets, net		59,372			60,907
Total assets	$	2,603,047		$	2,852,008
Liabilities and shareholders’ equity
Current liabilities:
Floor plan notes payable	$	646,945		$	854,758
Current maturities of long-term debt		130,717			151,024
Current maturities of capital lease obligations		14,449			14,691
Liabilities directly associated with assets held for sale		783			–
Trade accounts payable		97,844			120,255
Customer deposits		18,418			22,438
Accrued expenses		83,974			83,871
Total current liabilities		993,130			1,247,037
Long-term debt, net of current maturities		472,503			496,731
Capital lease obligations, net of current maturities		70,044			69,074
Other long-term liabilities		7,214			5,282
Deferred income taxes, net		197,331			188,987
Shareholders’ equity:
Preferred stock, par value $.01 per share; 1,000,000 shares authorized; 0 shares outstanding in 2016 and 2015		–			–
Common stock, par value $.01 per share; 60,000,000 Class A shares and 20,000,000 Class B shares authorized; 30,007,088 Class A shares and 9,245,447 Class B shares outstanding in 2016; and 30,303,818 Class A shares and 10,093,305 Class B shares outstanding in 2015		438			430
Additional paid-in capital		309,127			288,294
Treasury stock, at cost: 934,171 class A shares and 3,650,491 class B shares in 2016 and 2,616,657 class B shares in 2015		(86,882	)		(43,368	)
Retained earnings		640,428			599,846
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax		(286	)		(305	)
Total shareholders’ equity		862,825			844,897
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity	$	2,603,047		$	2,852,008

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

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RUSH ENTERPRISES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

(In Thousands, Except Per Share Amounts)

	Year Ended December 31,
	2016			2015			2014
Revenues:
New and used commercial vehicle sales	$	2,640,019		$	3,360,808		$	3,195,873
Parts and service sales		1,332,356			1,382,447			1,315,694
Lease and rental		208,154			199,867			177,561
Finance and insurance		18,582			21,150			19,988
Other		15,503			15,461			18,240
Total revenue		4,214,614			4,979,733			4,727,356
Cost of products sold:
New and used commercial vehicle sales		2,463,124			3,138,754			2,975,905
Parts and service sales		851,438			879,141			842,438
Lease and rental		182,040			176,891			152,967
Total cost of products sold		3,496,602			4,194,786			3,971,310
Gross profit		718,012			784,947			756,046
Selling, general and administrative		587,778			619,268			573,670
Depreciation and amortization		51,261			43,859			40,786
Gain (loss) on sale of assets		1,755			(544	)		151
Operating income		80,728			121,276			141,741
Interest income (expense):
Interest income		621			490			239
Interest expense		(14,900	)		(13,963	)		(11,437	)
Total interest expense, net		14,279			13,473			11,198
Income before taxes		66,449			107,803			130,543
Provision for income taxes		25,867			41,750			50,586
Net income	$	40,582		$	66,053		$	79,957
Earnings per common share:
Basic	$	1.02		$	1.64		$	2.01
Diluted	$	1.00		$	1.61		$	1.96

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

(In Thousands)

	Year Ended December 31,
	2016		2015		2014
Net income	$	40,582	$	66,053	$	79,957
Other comprehensive income before tax and net of reclassification adjustments:
Change in fair value of interest rate swaps		–		235		789
Change in fair value of available-for-sale securities		32		19		427
Other comprehensive income, before tax		32		254		1,216
Income tax expense related to components of other comprehensive income		13		99		474
Other comprehensive income, net of tax		19		155		742
Comprehensive income	$	40,601	$	66,208	$	80,699

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

(In Thousands)

	Common Stock																Accumulated
	Shares Outstanding						$0.01 Par		Additional Paid-In			Treasury			Retained		Other  Comprehensive
	Class A			Class B			Value		Capital			Stock			Earnings		Loss			Total
Balance, December 31, 2013		28,911			10,305		$	414	$	243,154		$	(30,821	)	$	453,836	$	(1,202	)	$	665,381
Stock options exercised and stock awards (including tax benefit of $5,207)		872			30			9		16,216			–			–		–			16,225
Stock-based compensation related to stock options, restricted shares and employee stock purchase plan		–			–			–		11,343			–			–		–			11,343
Vesting of restricted share awards		42			113			1		311			–			–		–			312
Issuance of common stock under employee stock purchase plan		64			–			–		1,462			–			–		–			1,462
Issuance of common stock related to business acquisition		–			–			–		–			1,170			–		–			1,170
Common stock repurchases		–			(449	)		–		–			(12,253	)		–		–			(12,253	)
Other comprehensive income		–			–			–		–			–			–		742			742
Net income		–			–			–		–			–			79,957		–			79,957
Balance, December 31, 2014		29,889			9,999		$	424	$	272,486		$	(41,904	)	$	533,793	$	(460	)	$	764,339
Stock options exercised and stock awards (including tax expense of $337)		182			–			2		1,933			–			–		–			1,935
Stock-based compensation related to stock options, restricted shares and employee stock purchase plan		–			–			–		12,384			–			–		–			12,384
Vesting of restricted share awards		147			150			3		(572	)		–			–		–			(569	)
Issuance of common stock under employee stock purchase plan		86			–			1		2,063			–			–		–			2,064
Common stock repurchases					(56	)		–		–			(1,464	)		–		–			(1,464	)
Other comprehensive income		v			–			–		–			–			–		155			155
Net income					–			–		–			–			66,053		–			66,053
Balance, December 31, 2015		30,304			10,093		$	430	$	288,294		$	(43,368	)	$	599,846	$	(305	)	$	844,897
Stock options exercised and stock awards (including tax expense of $294)		494			–			5		6,152			–			–		–			6,157
Stock-based compensation related to stock options, restricted shares and employee stock purchase plan		–			–			–		12,875			–			–		–			12,875
Vesting of restricted share awards		6			186			2		(725	)		–			–		–			(723	)
Issuance of common stock under employee stock purchase plan		137			–			1		2,531			–			–		–			2,532
Common stock repurchases		(934	)		(1,034	)		–		–			(43,514	)		–		–			(43,514	)
Other comprehensive income		–			–			–		–			–			–		19			19
Net income		–			–			–		–			–			40,582		–			40,582
Balance, December 31, 2016		30,007			9,245		$	438	$	309,127		$	(86,882	)	$	640,428	$	(286	)	$	862,825

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(In Thousands)

	Year Ended December 31,
	2016			2015			2014
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	$	40,582		$	66,053		$	79,957
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities-
Depreciation and amortization		157,627			144,935			126,452
(Gain) loss on sale of property and equipment, net		(1,755	)		544			(151	)
Loss on impairment of assets		8,247			−			−
Stock-based compensation expense related to employee stock options and employee stock purchases		12,875			12,384			11,343
Provision for deferred income tax expense		8,331			31,645			25,229
Excess tax expense (benefit) from stock-based compensation		294			337			(5,207	)
Acquired research and development		−			−			2,000
Change in accounts receivable, net		1,673			11,921			(67,664	)
Change in inventories		291,773			18,664			(151,911	)
Change in prepaid expenses and other, net		24,155			(3,690	)		(13,215	)
Change in trade accounts payable		(22,411	)		(4,154	)		24,180
(Payments) draws on floor plan notes payable – trade, net		3,989			(17,005	)		44,870
Change in customer deposits		(4,020	)		(22,371	)		(13,802	)
Change in accrued expenses		(190	)		(12,013	)		26,856
Net cash provided by operating activities		521,170			227,250			88,937
Cash flows from investing activities:
Acquisition of property and equipment		(196,965	)		(367,790	)		(260,820	)
Proceeds from the sale of property and equipment		12,494			3,319			249
Business acquisitions		(681	)		(69,013	)		(157,626	)
Proceeds from the sale of available for sale securities		450			275			150
Other		(4,708	)		(3,025	)		1,631
Net cash used in investing activities		(189,410	)		(436,234	)		(416,416	)
Cash flows from financing activities:
(Payments) draws on floor plan notes payable – non-trade, net		(211,802	)		31,568			207,458
Proceeds from long-term debt		121,188			218,026			214,622
Principal payments on long-term debt		(164,940	)		(154,685	)		(112,828	)
Principal payments on capital lease obligations		(23,479	)		(14,506	)		(12,531	)
Proceeds from issuance of shares relating to employee stock options and employee stock purchases		8,260			3,766			11,962
Excess tax (expense) benefit from stock-based compensation		(294	)		(337	)		5,207
Common stock repurchased		(43,514	)		(1,464	)		(12,253	)
Net cash provided by financing activities		(314,581	)		82,368			301,637
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents		17,179			(126,616	)		(25,842	)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year		64,847			191,463			217,305
Cash and cash equivalents, end of year	$	82,026		$	64,847		$	191,463
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:
Cash paid during the year for:
Interest	$	37,904		$	35,356		$	29,539
Income taxes (refunded) paid, net	$	(10,939	)	$	16,126		$	29,795
Noncash investing and financing activities:
Common stock issued related to business acquisition	$	−		$	−		$	2,000
Assets acquired under capital leases	$	24,207		$	41,021		$	24,314

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

1.     ORGANIZATION AND OPERATIONS:

Rush Enterprises, Inc. (the “Company”) was incorporated in 1965 under the laws of the State of Texas. The Company operates a network of commercial vehicle dealerships that primarily sell commercial vehicles manufactured by Peterbilt, International, Hino, Ford, Isuzu, Mitsubishi Fuso, IC Bus or Blue Bird. Through its strategically located network of Rush Truck Centers, the Company provides one-stop service for the needs of its commercial vehicle customers, including retail sales of new and used commercial vehicles, aftermarket parts sales, service and repair facilities, financing, leasing and rental, and insurance products.

2.     SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES:

Principles of Consolidation

The consolidated financial statements presented herein include the accounts of Rush Enterprises, Inc. together with its consolidated subsidiaries. All significant inter-company balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

Estimates in Financial Statements

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results may differ from those estimates.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents generally consist of cash and other money market instruments. The Company considers all highly liquid investments with an original maturity of ninety days or less to be cash equivalents.

Allowance for Doubtful Receivables and Repossession Losses

The Company provides an allowance for doubtful receivables and repossession losses after considering historical loss experience and other factors that might affect the collection of accounts receivable and the ability of customers to meet their obligations on finance contracts sold by the Company.

Inventories

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market value. Cost is determined by specific identification of new and used commercial vehicle inventory and by the first-in, first-out method for parts and accessories. An allowance is provided when it is anticipated that cost will exceed net realizable value less a reasonable profit margin.

Property and Equipment

Property and equipment are stated at cost and depreciated over their estimated useful lives. Leasehold improvements are amortized over the useful life of the improvement, or the term of the lease, whichever is shorter. Provision for depreciation of property and equipment is calculated primarily on a straight-line basis. The Company capitalizes interest on borrowings during the active construction period of major capital projects. Capitalized interest, when incurred, is added to the cost of underlying assets and is amortized over the estimated useful life of such assets. The Company capitalized interest of approximately $353,000 related to major capital projects during 2016. The cost, accumulated depreciation and amortization and estimated useful lives are summarized as follows (in thousands):

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	2016			2015			Estimated Life (Years)
Land	$	126,123		$	134,246			-
Buildings and improvements		377,070			313,706		10	-	39
Leasehold improvements		26,925			28,149		2	-	39
Machinery and shop equipment		67,558			59,455		5	-	20
Furniture, fixtures and computers		73,912			74,201		3	-	15
Transportation equipment		73,156			74,761		2	-	15
Lease and rental vehicles		832,661			825,787		2	-	8
Construction in progress		11,921			66,338
Accumulated depreciation and amortization		(453,521	)		(403,819	)
Total	$	1,135,805		$	1,172,824

The Company recorded depreciation expense of $140.6 million and amortization expense of $17.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, and depreciation expense of $131.8 million and amortization expense of $13.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2015.

As of December 31, 2016, the Company had $81.5 million in lease and rental vehicles under various capital leases included in property and equipment, net of accumulated amortization of $28.7 million. The Company recorded depreciation and amortization expense of $106.3 million related to lease and rental vehicles in lease and rental cost of products sold for the year ended December 31, 2016 and $101.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2015.

Goodwill

Goodwill is the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of identifiable net assets acquired in business combinations accounted for under the purchase method. The Company tests goodwill for impairment annually during the fourth quarter, or when indications of potential impairment exist. These indicators would include a significant change in operating performance, or a planned sale or disposition of a significant portion of the business, among other factors. The Company tests for goodwill impairment utilizing a fair value approach at the reporting unit level. The Company has deemed its reporting unit to be the Truck Segment, as all components of the Truck Segment are similar.

The impairment test for goodwill involves comparing the fair value of a reporting unit to its carrying amount, including goodwill. If the carrying amount of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value, a second step is required to measure the goodwill impairment loss. The second step includes hypothetically valuing all the tangible and intangible assets of the reporting unit as if the reporting unit had been acquired in a business combination and comparing the hypothetical implied fair value of the reporting unit’s goodwill to the carrying amount of that goodwill. If the carrying amount of the reporting unit’s goodwill exceeds the hypothetical implied fair value of the goodwill, the Company would recognize an impairment loss in an amount equal to the excess, not to exceed the carrying amount. The Company determines the fair values calculated in an impairment test using the discounted cash flow method, which requires assumptions and estimates regarding future revenue, expenses and cash flow projections. The analysis is based upon available information regarding expected future cash flows of its reporting unit discounted at rates consistent with the cost of capital specific to the reporting unit.

No impairment write down was required in the fourth quarter of 2016. However, the Company cannot predict the occurrence of certain events that might adversely affect the reported value of goodwill in the future.

The following table sets forth the change in the carrying amount of goodwill for the Company for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 (in thousands):

Balance December 31, 2014	$	265,145
Acquisitions and adjustments		19,896
Balance December 31, 2015		285,041
Acquisitions and adjustments		5,150
Balance December 31, 2016	$	290,191

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Other Assets

The total capitalized costs of the Company’s SAP enterprise software and SAP dealership management system of $33.0 million, including capitalized interest, are recorded on the Consolidated Balance Sheet in Other Assets, net of accumulated amortization of $16.5 million. The SAP software is being amortized over a period of 15 years.

Amortization expense relating to the SAP software, which is recognized in depreciation and amortization expense in the Consolidated Statements of Income, was $3.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, $3.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, and $3.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. The Company estimates that amortization expense relating to the SAP software will be approximately $3.4 million for each of the next five succeeding years.

The Company’s only significant identifiable intangible assets, other than goodwill, are rights under franchise agreements with manufacturers. The fair value of the franchise right is determined at the acquisition date by discounting the projected cash flows specific to each acquisition. The carrying value of the Company’s manufacturer franchise rights was $7.0 million at December 31, 2016, and $7.9 million at December 31, 2015, and is included in Other Assets on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. The Company has determined that manufacturer franchise rights have an indefinite life as there are no economic or other factors that limit their useful lives and they are expected to generate cash flows indefinitely due to the historically long lives of the manufacturers’ brand names. Furthermore, to the extent that any agreements evidencing manufacturer franchise rights have expiration dates, the Company expects that it will be able to renew those agreements in the ordinary course of business. Accordingly, the Company does not amortize manufacturer franchise rights.

Due to the fact that manufacturer franchise rights are specific to geographic region, the Company has determined that evaluating and including all locations acquired in the geographic region is the appropriate level for purposes of testing franchise rights for impairment. Management reviews indefinite-lived manufacturer franchise rights for impairment annually during the fourth quarter, or more often if events or circumstances indicate that an impairment may have occurred. The Company is subject to financial statement risk to the extent that manufacturer franchise rights become impaired due to decreases in the fair market value of its individual franchises.

The significant estimates and assumptions used by management in assessing the recoverability of manufacturer franchise rights include estimated future cash flows, present value discount rate, and other factors. Any changes in these estimates or assumptions could result in an impairment charge. The estimates of future cash flows, based on reasonable and supportable assumptions and projections, require management’s subjective judgment. Depending on the assumptions and estimates used, the estimated future cash flows projected in the evaluations of manufacturer franchise rights can vary within a range of outcomes.

No impairment write down was required in the fourth quarter of 2016. The Company cannot predict the occurrence of certain events that might adversely affect the reported value of manufacturer franchise rights in the future.

Income Taxes

Significant management judgment is required to determine the provisions for income taxes and to determine whether deferred tax assets will be realized in full or in part. Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. When it is more likely than not that all or some portion of specific deferred income tax assets will not be realized, a valuation allowance must be established for the amount of deferred income tax assets that are determined not to be realizable. Accordingly, the facts and financial circumstances impacting state deferred income tax assets are reviewed quarterly and management’s judgment is applied to determine the amount of valuation allowance required, if any, in any given period.

In determining its provision for income taxes, the Company uses an annual effective income tax rate based on annual income, permanent differences between book and tax income, and statutory income tax rates. The effective income tax rate also reflects its assessment of the ultimate outcome of tax audits. The Company adjusts its annual effective income tax rate as additional information on outcomes or events becomes available. Discrete events such as audit settlements or changes in tax laws are recognized in the period in which they occur.

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The Company’s income tax returns are periodically audited by U.S. federal, state and local tax authorities. These audits include questions regarding the Company’s tax filing positions, including the timing and amount of deductions. At any time, multiple tax years are subject to audit by the various tax authorities. In evaluating the tax benefits associated with the Company’s various tax filing positions, the Company records a tax benefit for uncertain tax positions. A number of years may elapse before a particular matter for which the Company has established a liability is audited and effectively settled. The Company adjusts its liability for unrecognized tax benefits in the period in which it determines the issue is effectively settled with the tax authorities, the statute of limitations expires for the relevant taxing authority to examine the tax position, or when more information becomes available. The Company includes its liability for unrecognized tax benefits, including accrued interest, in accrued liabilities on the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheet and in income tax expense in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Income. Unfavorable settlement of any particular issue would require use of the Company’s cash and a charge to income tax expense. Favorable resolution would be recognized as a reduction to income tax expense at the time of resolution.

Additionally, despite the Company’s belief that its tax return positions are consistent with applicable tax law, management expects that certain positions may be challenged by taxing authorities. Settlement of any challenge can result in no change, a complete disallowance, or some partial adjustment reached through negotiations. The Company records interest and penalties, if any, related to federal and state unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense.

Revenue Recognition Policies

Income on the sale of a vehicle is recognized when the Company and a customer execute a purchase contract, delivery has occurred and there are no significant uncertainties related to financing or the purchase price is paid by the customer. The Company generally sells finance contracts it enters into with customers to finance the purchase of commercial vehicles to third parties. These finance contracts are sold by the Company both with and without recourse. A majority of the Company’s finance contracts are sold without recourse. Finance income is recognized by the Company upon the sale of such finance contracts to the finance companies, net of a provision for estimated repossession losses and early repayment penalties.

Lease and rental income is recognized over the period of the related lease or rental agreement. Contingent rental income is recognized when it is earned. Parts and services revenue is earned at the time the Company sells the parts to its customers or at the time the Company completes, and the customer accepts, the service work order related to service provided to the customer’s vehicle.

Cost of Sales

For the Company’s new and used commercial vehicle operations and its parts operations, cost of sales consists primarily of the Company’s actual purchase price, less manufacturer’s incentives, for new and used commercial vehicles and parts. For the Company’s service and body shop operations, technician labor cost is the primary component of cost of sales. For the Company’s rental and leasing operations, cost of sales consists primarily of depreciation and amortization, rent, maintenance costs and interest expense on the lease and rental fleet owned and leased by the Company. There are no costs of sales associated with the Company’s finance and insurance revenue or other revenue.

Taxes Assessed by a Governmental Authority

The Company accounts for sales taxes assessed by a governmental authority, that are directly imposed on a revenue-producing transaction, on a net (excluded from revenues) basis.

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

Selling, general and administrative expenses consist primarily of incentive based compensation for sales, finance and general management personnel, salaries for administrative personnel and expenses for rent, marketing, insurance, utilities, research and development and other general operating purposes.

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Stock Based Compensation

The Company applies the provisions of ASC topic 718-10, “Compensation – Stock Compensation,” which requires the measurement and recognition of compensation expense for all share-based payment awards made to employees and directors including grants of employee stock options, restricted stock units, restricted stock awards and employee stock purchases under the Employee Stock Purchase Plan based on estimated fair values.

The Company uses the Black-Scholes option-pricing model to estimate the fair value of share-based payment awards on the date of grant. The value of the portion of the award that is ultimately expected to vest is recognized as expense over the requisite service periods.

Compensation expense for all share-based payment awards is recognized using the straight-line single-option method. Stock-based compensation expense is recognized based on awards expected to vest. Accordingly, stock based compensation expense has been reduced for estimated forfeitures. Forfeitures are estimated at the time of grant and revised, if necessary, in subsequent periods if actual forfeitures differ from those estimates.

The Company’s determination of fair value of share-based payment awards on the date of grant using an option-pricing model is affected by the Company’s stock price as well as assumptions regarding a number of highly complex and subjective variables. These variables include the Company’s expected stock price volatility over the term of the awards and actual and projected stock option exercise behaviors. Option-pricing models were developed for use in estimating the value of traded options that have no vesting or hedging restrictions and are fully transferable. Because the Company’s stock options have characteristics that are significantly different from traded options and because changes in the subjective assumptions can materially affect the estimated value, in management’s opinion, the existing valuation models may not provide an accurate measure of the fair value that value may not be indicative of the fair value observed in a market transaction between a willing buyer and a willing seller.

The following table reflects the weighted-average fair value of stock options granted during each period using the Black-Scholes option valuation model with the following weighted-average assumptions used:

	2016			2015			2014
Expected stock volatility		35.63	%		40.90	%		51.51	%
Weighted-average stock volatility		35.63	%		40.90	%		51.51	%
Expected dividend yield		0.00	%		0.00	%		0.00	%
Risk-free interest rate		1.64	%		1.74	%		2.14	%
Expected life (years)		6.0			6.0			6.5
Weighted-average fair value of stock options granted	$	6.54		$	11.27		$	15.86

The Company computes its historical stock price volatility in accordance with ASC topic 718-10. The risk-free interest rate for periods within the contractual life of the option is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant. The dividend yield assumption is based on the Company’s history and expectation of dividend payouts. The expected life of stock options represents the weighted-average period the stock options are expected to remain outstanding.

Advertising Costs

Advertising costs are expensed as incurred. Advertising and marketing expense was $6.8 million for 2016, $8.8 million for 2015 and $8.7 million for 2014. Advertising and marketing expense is included in selling, general and administrative expense.

Accounting for Internal Use Software

The Company’s accounting policy with respect to accounting for computer software developed or obtained for internal use is consistent with ASC topic 350-40, which provides guidance on accounting for the costs of computer software developed or obtained for internal use and identifies characteristics of internal-use software.  The Company has capitalized software costs, including capitalized interest, of approximately $33.0 million at December 31, 2016, net of accumulated amortization of $16.5 million, and had $36.1 million, net of accumulated amortization of $13.4 million at December 31, 2015. 

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Insurance

The Company is partially self-insured for a portion of the claims related to its property and casualty insurance programs. Accordingly, the Company is required to estimate expected losses to be incurred. The Company engages a third-party administrator to assess any open claims and the Company adjusts its accrual accordingly on an annual basis. The Company is also partially self-insured for a portion of the claims related to its worker’s compensation and medical insurance programs. The Company uses actuarial information provided from third-party administrators to calculate an accrual for claims incurred, but not reported, and for the remaining portion of claims that have been reported.

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities

From 2012 until 2015, the Company utilized derivative financial instruments to manage its interest rate risk relating to the variability of cash flows and changes in the fair value of its financial instruments caused by movements in interest rates. The Company assessed hedge effectiveness at the inception and during the term of each hedge. Derivatives are reported at fair value on the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets.

At December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, the Company did not have any outstanding interest rate swap contracts.

Fair Value Measurements

The Company has various financial instruments that it must measure at fair value on a recurring basis, including certain available for sale securities and derivatives. See Note 9 – Financial Instruments and Fair Value of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, for further information. The Company also applies the provisions of fair value measurement to various nonrecurring measurements for its financial and nonfinancial assets and liabilities.

Applicable accounting standards define fair value as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date (an exit price). The Company measures its assets and liabilities using inputs from the following three levels of the fair value hierarchy:

Level 1 inputs are unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the Company has the ability to access at the measurement date.

Level 2 inputs include quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability (i.e., interest rates, yield curves, etc.), and inputs that are derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data by correlation or other means (market corroborated inputs).

Level 3 includes unobservable inputs that reflect the Company’s assumptions about what factors market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability. The Company develops these inputs based on the best information available, including its own data.

Acquisitions

The Company uses the acquisition method of accounting for the recognition of assets acquired and liabilities assumed with acquisitions at their estimated fair values as of the date of acquisition. Any excess consideration transferred over the estimated fair values of the identifiable net assets acquired is recorded as goodwill. While the Company uses its best estimates and assumptions to measure the fair value of the identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the acquisition date, the estimates are inherently uncertain and subject to refinement. As a result, during the measurement period, which is not to exceed one year from the date of acquisition, any changes in the estimated fair values of the net assets recorded for the acquisitions will result in an adjustment to goodwill. Upon the conclusion of the measurement period or final determination of the values of assets acquired or liabilities assumed, whichever comes first, any subsequent adjustments are recorded to the Consolidated Statements of Income.

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New Accounting Pronouncements

In March 2016, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-09, “Compensation – Stock Compensation (Topic 718),” which changes the accounting for certain aspects of share-based payments to employees. The new guidance requires excess tax benefits and tax deficiencies to be recorded in the income statement when the awards vest or are settled. In addition, cash flows related to excess tax benefits will no longer be separately classified as a financing activity apart from other income tax cash flows. The standard also allows the Company to repurchase more of an employee’s shares for tax withholding purposes without triggering liability accounting, clarifies that all cash payments made on an employee’s behalf for withheld shares should be presented as a financing activity on its cash flows statement, and provides an accounting policy election to account for forfeitures as they occur. The new standard is effective for the Company beginning January 1, 2017. The Company does not expect the adoption to materially impact its consolidated financial statements.

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02, “Leases (Topic 842),” which is intended to increase the transparency and comparability among organizations by recognizing lease assets and lease liabilities on the balance sheet and disclosing key information about leasing arrangements. In order to meet that objective, the new standard requires recognition of the assets and liabilities that arise from leases. A lessee will be required to recognize on the balance sheet the assets and liabilities for leases with lease terms of more than 12 months.  Accounting by lessors will remain largely unchanged from current U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. The new standard is effective for public companies for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, and interim periods within those years, with early adoption permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the effect that adopting this standard will have on our financial statements and related disclosures.

In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606),” which amends the existing accounting standards for revenue recognition. ASU 2014-09 is based on principles that govern the recognition of revenue at an amount an entity expects to be entitled to when products are transferred to customers. ASU 2014-09 will be effective for the Company beginning in its first quarter of 2018, and early adoption is permitted. The ASU provides two transition methods: (i) retrospectively to each prior reporting period presented or (ii) retrospectively with the cumulative effect of initially applying this ASU recognized at the date of initial application.

Subsequently, the FASB issued the following standards related to ASU 2014-09: ASU No. 2016-08, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Principal versus Agent Considerations”; ASU No. 2016-10, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Identifying Performance Obligations and Licensing”; and ASU No. 2016-12, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Narrow-Scope Improvements and Practical Expedients.”

The Company will adopt ASU 2014-09 on January 1, 2018. In 2016, the Company established a cross-functional team with representatives from its major revenue streams to review our current accounting policies and practices, assess the effect of the standard on our revenue contracts and identify potential differences. In addition, the Company is in the process of evaluating changes to its business processes and controls to support recognition and disclosure under the new standard. While the Company is currently assessing the impact of the new standard, its revenue is primarily generated from the sale of finished products to customers. Those sales predominantly contain a single delivery element and revenue is recognized at a single point in time when ownership, risks and benefits transfer. The timing of revenue recognition for these transactions is not expected to be significantly impacted by the new standard. The Company continues to review the impact of this standard on potential disclosure changes in its financial statements as well as which transition approach will be applied.

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3.     SUPPLIER CONCENTRATION:

Major Suppliers and Dealership Agreements

The Company has entered into dealership agreements with various manufacturers of commercial vehicles and buses (“Manufacturers”). These agreements are nonexclusive agreements that allow the Company to stock, sell at retail and service commercial vehicles and sell parts from the Manufacturers in the Company’s defined market. The agreements allow the Company to use the Manufacturers’ names, trade symbols and intellectual property and expire as follows:

Manufacturer	Expiration Dates
Peterbilt	May 2017 through March 2019
International	December 2017 through March 2021
Isuzu	Indefinite
Hino	Indefinite
Ford	Indefinite
Blue Bird	July 2017
IC Bus	December 2017 through March 2021

These agreements, as well as agreements with various other Manufacturers, impose a number of restrictions and obligations on the Company, including restrictions on a change in control of the Company and the maintenance of certain required levels of working capital. Violation of these restrictions could result in the loss of the Company’s right to purchase the Manufacturers’ products and use the Manufacturers’ trademarks.

The Company purchases its new Peterbilt vehicles from Peterbilt and most of the parts sold at its Peterbilt dealerships from PACCAR, Inc., the parent company of Peterbilt, at prevailing prices charged to all franchised dealers. Sales of new Peterbilt trucks accounted for approximately 61.0% of the Company’s new vehicle sales for the year ended December 31, 2016, 59.6% of the Company’s new vehicle sales for the year ended December 31, 2015, and 63.5% of the Company’s new vehicle sales for the year ended December 31, 2014.

Primary Lenders

The Company purchases its new and used commercial vehicle inventories with the assistance of floor plan financing programs as described in Note 7 to these Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. The Company’s floor plan financing agreements provide that the occurrence of certain events will be considered events of default. In the event that the Company’s floor plan financing becomes insufficient, or its relationship with any of its current primary lenders terminates, the Company would need to obtain similar financing from other sources. Management believes it can obtain additional floor plan financing or alternative financing if necessary.

The Company also acquires lease and rental vehicles with the assistance of financing agreements with PACCAR Leasing Company, Bank of America and Wells Fargo. The financing agreements are secured by a lien on the acquired vehicle. The terms of the financing agreements are similar to the corresponding lease agreements with the Company’s customers.

Concentrations of Credit Risks

Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to significant concentrations of credit risk consist principally of cash and cash equivalents and accounts receivable. The Company places its cash and cash equivalents with what it considers to be quality financial institutions based on periodic assessments of such institutions. The Company’s cash and cash equivalents may be uninsured or in deposit accounts that exceed the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation insurance limit.

The Company controls credit risk through credit approvals and by selling a majority of its trade receivables, other than vehicle accounts receivable, without recourse. Concentrations of credit risk with respect to trade receivables are reduced because a large number of geographically diverse customers make up the Company’s customer base; however, substantially all of the Company’s business is concentrated in the United States commercial vehicle markets and related aftermarkets.

The Company generally sells finance contracts it enters into with customers to finance the purchase of commercial vehicles to third parties. These finance contracts are sold by the Company both with and without recourse. A majority of the Company’s finance contracts are sold without recourse. The Company provides an allowance for doubtful receivables and a reserve for repossession losses related to finance contracts sold with recourse. Historically, the Company’s allowances and reserves have covered losses inherent in these receivables.

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4.     ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE:

The Company’s accounts receivable, net, consisted of the following (in thousands):

	December 31,
	2016			2015
Trade accounts receivable from sale of vehicles	$	83,482		$	76,601
Trade receivables other than vehicles		42,876			43,916
Warranty claims		8,095			8,261
Other accounts receivable		22,409			28,810
Less allowance for bad debt and warranty claims		(663	)		(611	)
Total	$	156,199		$	156,977

5.     INVENTORIES:

The Company’s inventories, net, consisted of the following (in thousands):

	December 31,
	2016			2015
New commercial vehicles	$	575,879		$	770,861
Used commercial vehicles		71,429			86,960
Parts and accessories		187,419			201,868
Other		15,564			15,341
Less allowance		(9,987	)		(13,832	)
Total	$	840,304		$	1,061,198

6.      VALUATION ACCOUNTS:

Valuation and allowance accounts include the following (in thousands):

	Balance Beginning of Year		Net Charged to Costs and Expenses		Net Write- Offs			Balance End of Year
2016
Reserve for accounts receivable	$	506	$	1,415	$	(1,372	)	$	549
Reserve for warranty receivables		105		833		(824	)		114
Reserve for parts inventory		7,291		3,400		(5,806	)		4,885
Reserve for commercial vehicle inventory		6,541		9,623		(11,062	)		5,102
2015
Reserve for accounts receivable	$	639	$	992	$	(1,125	)	$	506
Reserve for warranty receivables		140		1,677		(1,712	)		105
Reserve for parts inventory		5,067		4,215		(1,991	)		7,291
Reserve for commercial vehicle inventory		10,644		8,417		(12,520	)		6,541
2014
Reserve for accounts receivable	$	821	$	919	$	(1,101	)	$	639
Reserve for warranty receivables		419		411		(690	)		140
Reserve for parts inventory		4,416		2,547		(1,896	)		5,067
Reserve for commercial vehicle inventory		7,395		7,877		(4,628	)		10,644

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Allowance for Doubtful Receivables

The Company sells a majority of its customer accounts receivable on a non-recourse basis to a third-party that is responsible for qualifying the customer for credit at the point of sale. If the third-party approves the customer for credit, then the third-party assumes all credit risk related to the transaction. For accounts receivable that the Company does not sell or that are sold with recourse to the Company, an allowance for doubtful receivables is provided after considering historical loss experience and other factors that might affect the collection of such accounts receivable.

The Company provides an allowance for uncollectible warranty receivables. The Company evaluates the collectability of its warranty claims receivable based on a combination of factors, including aging and correspondence with the applicable manufacturer. Management reviews the warranty claims receivable aging and adjusts the allowance based on historical experience. The Company records charge-offs related to warranty receivables after it is determined that a receivable will not be fully collected.

Inventory

The Company provides a reserve for obsolete and slow moving parts. The reserve is reviewed and, if necessary, adjustments are made on a quarterly basis. The Company relies on historical information to support its reserve. Once the inventory is written down, the Company does not reverse any reserve balance until the inventory is sold.

The valuation for new and used commercial vehicle inventory is based on specific identification. A detail of new and used commercial vehicle inventory is reviewed and, if necessary, adjustments to the value of specific vehicles are made on a quarterly basis.

7.     FLOOR PLAN NOTES PAYABLE AND LINES OF CREDIT:

Floor Plan Notes Payable

Floor plan notes are financing agreements to facilitate the Company’s purchase of new and used commercial vehicle inventory. These notes are collateralized by the inventory purchased and accounts receivable arising from the sale thereof. The Company’s Floor Plan Credit Agreement provides for a loan commitment of up to $875.0 million and has the interest rate benchmarked to LIBOR, as defined in the agreement.

The interest rate under the Company’s Floor Plan Credit Agreement is the three month LIBOR rate plus 1.51%. The interest rate applicable to the Company’s Floor Plan Credit Agreement was approximately 2.44% at December 31, 2016. The Company utilizes its excess cash on hand to pay down its outstanding borrowings under its Floor Plan Credit Agreement, and the resulting interest earned is recognized as an offset to the Company’s gross interest expense under the Floor Plan Credit Agreement. The Company is required to pay a monthly working capital fee equal to 0.16% per annum multiplied by the amount of voluntary prepayments of new and used inventory loans.

The Company finances substantially all of the purchase price of its new commercial vehicle inventory, and the loan value of its used commercial vehicle inventory, under its Floor Plan Credit Agreement, under which BMO Harris pays the manufacturer directly with respect to new commercial vehicles. Amounts borrowed under the Company’s Floor Plan Credit Agreement are due when the related commercial vehicle inventory (collateral) is sold and the sales proceeds are collected by the Company. The Company’s Floor Plan Credit Agreement expires June 30, 2019, although BMO Harris has the right to terminate the Floor Plan Credit Agreement at any time upon 120 days’ written notice. The Company may terminate the Floor Plan Credit Agreement at any time, although if it does so, it must pay a prepayment processing fee equal to: (i) 2.0% of the aggregate revolving loan commitments if such termination occurs on or before January 1, 2018; (ii) 1.0% of the aggregate revolving loan commitments if such termination occurs after January 1, 2018 and on or prior to July 1, 2018; and (iii) $500,000 if such termination occurs after July 1, 2018 and prior to June 30, 2019, subject to specified limited exceptions. On December 31, 2016, the Company had approximately $548.1 million outstanding under its Floor Plan Credit Agreement.

In June 2012, the Company entered into a wholesale financing agreement with Ford Motor Credit Company that provides for the financing of, and is collateralized by, the Company’s new Ford vehicle inventory. This wholesale financing agreement bears interest at a rate of Prime plus 150 basis points minus certain incentives and rebates; however, the prime rate is defined to be a minimum of 3.75%. As of December 31, 2016, the interest rate on the wholesale financing agreement was 5.25% before considering the applicable incentives. On December 31, 2016, the Company had an outstanding balance of approximately $66.4 million under the Ford Motor Credit Company wholesale financing agreement.

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The Company’s weighted average interest rate for floor plan notes payable was 1.58% for the year ended December 31, 2016, and 1.47% for the year ended December 31, 2015, which is net of interest related to prepayments of new and used inventory loans.

Assets pledged as collateral were as follows (in thousands):

	December 31,
	2016		2015
Inventories, new and used vehicles at cost based on specific identification, net of allowance	$	642,205	$	851,280
Vehicle sale related accounts receivable		83,482		76,601
Total	$	725,687	$	927,881
Floor plan notes payable related to vehicles	$	646,945	$	854,758

Lines of Credit

The Company has a secured line of credit that provides for a maximum borrowing of $17.5 million. There were no advances outstanding under this secured line of credit at December 31, 2016; however, $12.0 million was pledged to secure various letters of credit related to self-insurance products, leaving $5.5 million available for future borrowings as of December 31, 2016.

8.      LONG-TERM DEBT:

Long-term debt was comprised of the following (in thousands):

	December 31,
	2016			2015
Variable interest rate term notes	$	107,894		$	127,508
Fixed interest rate term notes		495,326			520,247
Total debt		603,220			647,755
Less: current maturities		(130,717	)		(151,024	)
Total long-term debt, net of current maturities	$	472,503		$	496,731

As of December 31, 2016, debt maturities were as follows (in thousands):

2017		130,717
2018		125,226
2019		123,353
2020		118,913
2021		59,567
Thereafter		45,444
Total	$	603,220

The interest rates on the Company’s variable interest rate notes are based on various LIBOR benchmark rates. The interest rates on the notes range from approximately 2.3% to 2.7% on December 31, 2016. Payments on the notes range from approximately $3,111 to $125,833 per month, plus interest. Maturities of these notes range from May 2017 to June 2025.

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The Company’s fixed interest rate notes had interest rates that ranged from approximately 2.75% to 7.61% on December 31, 2016. Payments on the notes range from $255 to $27,607 per month. Maturities of these notes range from January 2017 to October 2024.

The proceeds from the issuance of the notes were used primarily to acquire land, buildings and improvements, transportation equipment and leasing vehicles. The notes are secured by the assets acquired with the proceeds of such notes.

The Company’s long-term real estate debt agreements and floor plan financing arrangements require the Company to satisfy various financial ratios such as the debt to worth ratio, leverage ratio, the fixed charge coverage ratio and certain requirements for tangible net worth and GAAP net worth. As of December 31, 2016, the Company was in compliance with all debt covenants. The Company does not anticipate any breach of the covenants in the foreseeable future.

9.     FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND FAIR VALUE:

The Company measures certain financial assets and liabilities at fair value on a recurring basis. Financial instruments consist primarily of cash, accounts receivable, accounts payable and floor plan notes payable. The carrying values of the Company’s financial instruments approximate fair value due either to their short-term nature or existence of variable interest rates, which approximate market rates. Certain methods and assumptions were used by the Company in estimating the fair value of financial instruments at December 31, 2016, and 2015. The carrying value of current assets and current liabilities approximates the fair value due to the short maturity of these items.

The fair value of the Company’s long-term debt is based on secondary market indicators. Because the Company’s debt is not quoted, estimates are based on each obligation’s characteristics, including remaining maturities, interest rate, credit rating, collateral and liquidity. Accordingly, the Company concluded the valuation measurement inputs of its long-term debt to represent, at its lowest level, current market interest rates available to the Company for similar debt and the Company’s current credit standing and has categorized such debt within Level 2 of the hierarchy framework. The carrying amount approximates fair value.

If investments are deemed to be impaired, the Company determines whether the impairment is temporary or other than temporary. If the impairment is deemed to be temporary, the Company records an unrealized loss in other comprehensive income. If the impairment is deemed other than temporary, the Company records the impairment in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Income.

In prior years, the Company invested in interest-bearing short-term investments primarily consisting of investment-grade auction rate securities classified as available-for-sale and reported at fair value. These types of investments were designed to provide liquidity through an auction process that reset the applicable interest rates at predetermined periods ranging from 1 to 35 days. This reset mechanism was intended to allow existing investors to continue to own their respective interest in the auction rate security or to gain immediate liquidity by selling their interests at par.

Auctions for investment grade securities held by the Company have failed. However, a failed auction does not represent a default by the issuer. The auction rate securities continue to pay interest in accordance with the terms of the underlying security; however, liquidity will be limited until there is a successful auction or until such time as other markets for these investments develop. The Company has the intent and ability to hold these auction rate securities until liquidity returns to the market. The Company does not believe that the lack of liquidity relating to its auction rate securities will have a material impact on its ability to fund operations.

As of December 31, 2016, the Company held auction rate securities with underlying tax-exempt municipal bonds that mature in 2030 and have a fair value of $6.2 million and a cost basis of $6.7 million. As of December 31, 2015, the Company held auction rate securities with underlying tax-exempt municipal bonds that mature in 2030 and have a fair value of $6.7 million and a cost basis of $7.2 million. The issuer redeemed $150,000 of the auction rate securities during the second quarter of 2014, $275,000 during the second quarter of 2015, $250,000 during the second quarter of 2016, and $200,000 during the third quarter of 2016. These bonds have credit wrap insurance and a credit rating of A by a major credit rating agency.

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The Company valued the auction rate securities at December 31, 2016 using a discounted cash flow model based on the characteristics of the individual securities, which the Company believes yields the best estimate of fair value. The first step in the valuation included a credit analysis of the security which considered various factors including the credit quality of the issuer, the instrument’s position within the capital structure of the issuing authority, and the composition of the authority’s assets including the effect of insurance and/or government guarantees. Next, the future cash flows of the instruments were projected based on certain assumptions regarding the auction rate market significant to the valuation including the auction rate market will remain illiquid and auctions will continue to fail causing the interest rate to be the maximum applicable rate. This assumption resulted in discounted cash flow analysis being performed through 2019, the point at which the Company estimates the securities will be redeemed by the municipality. The projected cash flows were then discounted using the applicable yield curve plus a 225 basis point liquidity premium added to the applicable discount rate.

The Company recorded a pre-tax impairment charge of $1.0 million on these auction rate securities in 2011 and a subsequent pre-tax increase in fair value of $427,000 during 2014. The Company believes that the impairment is temporary and has included the impairment in accumulated other comprehensive loss.

The table below presents disclosures about the auction rate securities measured at fair value on a recurring basis in the Company’s financial statements as follows (in thousands):

	At December 31, 2016						At December 31, 2015
	Level 1 Inputs		Level 2 Inputs		Level 3 Inputs		Level 1 Inputs		Level 2 Inputs		Level 3 Inputs
Investment in auction rate securities		-		-	$	6,231		-		-	$	6,650

	Cost Basis Amount		Gross Unrealized Loss In Accumulated OCI		Fair Value
December 31, 2016
Investment in auction rate securities	$	6,700	$	469	$	6,231
December 31, 2015
Investment in auction rate securities	$	7,150	$	500	$	6,650

Interest Rate Swap Agreements

In January 2012, the Company entered into swap agreements to hedge against the potential impact of increases in interest rates on its floating-rate debt instruments. All interest rate swap contracts expired by July 1, 2015, therefore, at December 31, 2016 and 2015, the Company did not have any interest rate swap contracts. Swap agreements that hedge exposures to changes in interest rates exposed the Company to credit risk and market risk.  

These swap contracts were designated as cash flow hedges to pay fixed rates of interest and received a floating interest rate based on LIBOR. The fixed interest rates specified in the interest rate swap contracts became effective on or about January 1, 2012. The Company’s interest rate swaps qualified for cash flow hedge accounting treatment. Unrealized gains or losses were recorded in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Amounts received or paid under the contracts were recognized as interest expense over the life of the contracts.

The derivative instruments described above are on the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Income (in thousands):

	Gain (Loss) Recognized in OCI on Derivatives (Effective Portion) during the Year Ended				Location of Loss	Loss Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income (Effective Portion) during the Year Ended
	December 31, 2016		December 31, 2015		Reclassified into Income	December 31, 2016		December 31, 2015
Interest rate swaps	$	−	$	235	Interest Expense	$	−	$	(55	)

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Long-Lived Assets

During the first quarter of 2016, the Company instituted plans to consolidate its dealership network. In 2016, the Company recorded an impairment charge related to the value of the real estate in the affected locations in the amount of $7.5 million. The Company also classified certain excess real estate as held for sale, which resulted in an additional impairment charge.

The fair value measurements for the Company’s long-lived assets are based on Level 3 inputs. Fair values were based on evaluations by a third-party real estate broker that utilized its knowledge and historical experience in real estate markets and transactions. During the third and fourth quarter of 2016, the Company sold four properties with a fair value of $6.1 million. The Company is actively marketing the remaining real estate held for sale.

The following table presents long-lived assets measured and recorded at fair value on a nonrecurring basis (in thousands):

Description	Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs December 31, 2016		Loss During the Year Ended December 31, 2016
Long-lived assets held for sale	$	13,955	$	(7,481	)

For further discussion of assets held for sale, see Note 21 – Restructuring Costs of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. The loss was reported in selling, general and administrative expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income and was reported under the Truck Segment for 2016.

10.     LEASING ACTIVITIES:

Vehicle Leases as Lessee

The Company leases vehicles, as lessee, primarily over periods ranging from one to ten years under operating lease and capital lease arrangements. Generally, the Company is required to incur all operating costs and pay a minimum rental. The Company usually guarantees the residual value of vehicles under operating lease and capital lease arrangements. At December 31, 2016, the Company guaranteed vehicle residual values of $0.5 million under operating lease arrangements and $34.0 million under capital lease arrangements. Historically, the Company purchases these vehicles at the end of the lease term and recognizes a gain on the subsequent sale of the vehicle. The residual values are not reflected in the future minimum lease payments for operating leases. Vehicle lease expenses were approximately $1.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, $2.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, and $4.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2014.

As discussed below, these vehicles are then subleased by the Company to customers under various agreements. Future minimum sublease rentals to be received by the Company under non-cancelable subleases, as described below, are $75.2 million.

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 Future minimum lease payments under capital and non-cancelable vehicle leases as of December 31, 2016, are as follows (in thousands):

	Capital Leases			Operating Leases
2017	$	17,029		$	819
2018		17,657			672
2019		18,264			602
2020		16,977			342
2021		10,936			342
Thereafter		11,659			190
Total minimum lease payments	$	92,522		$	2,967
Less amount representing interest		(8,029	)
Present value of net minimum capital lease payments		84,493
Less current portion		(14,449	)
Obligations under capital leases less current portion	$	70,044

Customer Vehicle Leases as Lessor

The Company leases both owned and leased vehicles to customers, through its PacLease and Idealease franchises, primarily over periods of one to ten years, under operating lease arrangements, which require a minimum rental payment and a contingent rental payment based on mileage. Rental income during the year ended December 31, 2016, consisted of minimum rental payments of approximately $182.1 million and contingent rental payments of $27.8 million. Rental income during the year ended December 31, 2015, consisted of minimum rental payments of approximately $175.0 million and contingent rental payments of $27.4 million. Rental income during the year ended December 31, 2014, consisted of minimum rental payments of approximately $154.8 million and contingent rental payments of $24.5 million. Minimum rental payments to be received for non-cancelable leases and subleases in effect at December 31, 2016, are as follows (in thousands):

2017	$	121,335
2018		103,092
2019		81,532
2020		58,660
2021		34,083
Thereafter		17,257
Total	$	415,959

As of December 31, 2016, the Company had $570.1 million of lease vehicles included in property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $262.6 million. As of December 31, 2015, the Company had $592.0 million of lease vehicles included in property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $233.8 million.

Other Leases - Land and Buildings

The Company leases various assets under operating leases with expiration dates ranging from February 2017 through May 2045. Monthly rental payments range from approximately $275 per month to $46,479 per month. Rental expense was $10.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, $11.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, and $12.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. Future minimum lease payments under non-cancelable leases at December 31, 2015, are as follows (in thousands):

2017	$	8,180
2018		6,341
2019		4,639
2020		3,404
2021		1,899
Thereafter		16,336
Total	$	40,799

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11.          SHARE BASED COMPENSATION AND EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS:

Employee Stock Purchase Plan

The Company’s 2004 Employee Stock Purchase Plan, as amended and restated (the “Employee Stock Purchase Plan”) allows eligible employees to contribute up to $10,625 of their base earnings every six months toward the semi-annual purchase of the Company’s Class A Common Stock. The employee’s purchase price is 85% of the lesser of the closing price of the Class A Common Stock on the first business day or the last business day of the semi-annual offering period, as reported by The NASDAQ Global Select Market. Employees may purchase shares having a fair market value of up to $25,000 (measured as of the first day of each semi-annual offering period) for each calendar year. On May 17, 2016, the Company’s shareholders approved the amendment and restatement of the Employee Stock Purchase Plan to increase the number of shares of Class A Common Stock authorized for issuance thereunder by 500,000 shares. Under the Employee Stock Purchase Plan, there are approximately 528,000 shares remaining of the 1,400,000 shares of the Company’s Class A Common Stock that have been reserved for issuance. The Company issued 137,360 shares under the Employee Stock Purchase Plan during the year ended December 31, 2016 and 85,263 shares during the year ended December 31, 2015. Of the 6,180 employees eligible to participate, 1,011 elected to participate in the plan as of December 31, 2016.

Non-Employee Director Stock Option Plan

On May 16, 2006, the Board of Directors and shareholders adopted the Rush Enterprises, Inc. 2006 Non-Employee Director Stock Option Plan (the “Director Plan”), reserving 1,500,000 shares of Class A Common Stock for issuance upon exercise of any awards granted under the plan. This Director Plan was Amended and Restated on May 20, 2008 to expand the type of awards that may be granted under the plan to include Class A Common Stock awards. The Director Plan was also amended on May 18, 2010 to reduce the number of shares reserved for issuance under the plan by 1,000,000 shares of Class A Common Stock.

The Director Plan is designed to attract and retain highly qualified non-employee directors. Prior to 2008, each non-employee director received options to purchase 20,000 shares of the Company’s Class A Common Stock upon their respective date of appointment and each year on the date that they are elected or reelected by the shareholders to serve on the Board of Directors. Each option has a ten year term from the grant date and vested immediately. Currently, each non-employee director receives a grant of the Company’s Class A Common Stock, or up to 40% cash, equivalent to a compensation value of $125,000. In 2015, three non-employee directors received a grant of 4,725 shares of the Company’s Class A Common Stock, one non-employee director received a grant of 3,780 shares of the Company’s Class A Common Stock and $25,000 cash and three non-employee directors received a grant of 2,835 shares of the Company’s Class A Common Stock and $50,000 cash, for total compensation equivalent to $125,000 each. In 2016, two non-employee directors received a grant of 6,145 shares of the Company’s Class A Common Stock and four non-employee director received a grant of 3,687 shares of the Company’s Class A Common Stock and $50,000 cash, for total compensation equivalent to $125,000 each. Under the Director Plan, there are approximately 165,000 shares remaining for issuance of the 500,000 shares of the Company’s Class A Common Stock that have been reserved for issuance. The Company granted 27,038 shares of Class A Common Stock under the Director Plan during the year ended December 31, 2016 and 26,460 shares of Class A Common Stock under the Director Plan during the year ended December 31, 2015.

Employee Incentive Plans

In May 2007, the Board of Directors and shareholders adopted the Rush Enterprises, Inc. 2007 Long-Term Incentive Plan (the “2007 Incentive Plan”). The 2007 Incentive Plan provides for the grant of stock options (which may be nonqualified stock options or incentive stock options for tax purposes), stock appreciation rights issued independent of or in tandem with such options (“SARs”), restricted stock awards and performance awards. The 2007 Incentive Plan replaced the Rush Enterprises, Inc. Long-Term Incentive Plan (“Incentive Plan”) effective May 22, 2007. The 2007 Incentive Plan was amended and restated on May 20, 2014 to increase the number of shares available for issuance under the plan to 6,050,000 shares of Class A Common Stock and 1,450,000 shares of Class B Common Stock.

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The aggregate number of shares of common stock subject to stock options or SARs that may be granted to any one participant in any year under the 2007 Incentive Plan is 100,000 shares of Class A Common Stock or 100,000 shares of Class B Common Stock. Each option granted pursuant to the 2007 Incentive Plan has a ten year term from the grant date and vests in three equal annual installments beginning on the third anniversary of the grant date. The Company has 6,050,000 shares of Class A Common Stock and 1,450,000 shares of Class B Common Stock reserved for issuance upon exercise of any awards granted under the Company’s 2007 Incentive Plan. As of December 31, 2016, approximately 856,000 shares of Class A Common Stock and 539,000 shares of Class B Common Stock are available for issuance upon the exercise of any awards granted under the Company’s 2007 Incentive Plan. The Company issues new shares of its Class A or Class B Common Stock upon the exercise of stock options or vesting of restricted stock units. During the year ended December 31, 2016, the Company granted 493,088 options to purchase Class A Common Stock and 268,890 restricted Class B Common Stock units under the 2007 Incentive Plan. During the year ended December 31, 2015, the Company granted 485,838 options to purchase Class A Common Stock and 259,490 restricted Class B Common Stock units under the 2007 Incentive Plan.

Valuation and Expense Information 

Stock-based compensation expense related to stock options, restricted stock awards, restricted stock units and employee stock purchases was $12.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, $12.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, and $11.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2014.

Cash received from options exercised and shares purchased under all share-based payment arrangements was $6.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, $4.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, and $12.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2014.

A summary of the Company’s stock option activity and related information for the year ended December 31, 2016, follows:

						Weighted
				Weighted		Average
				Average		Remaining		Aggregate
				Exercise		Contractual		Intrinsic
Options	Shares			Price		Life (in Years)		Value
Balance of Outstanding Options at January 1, 2016		3,475,115		$	20.95
Granted		493,088			17.65
Exercised		(466,877	)		13.82
Forfeited		(11,500	)		25.55
Balance of Outstanding Options at December 31, 2016		3,489,826		$	21.42		5.86	$	36,573,365
Expected to vest after December 31, 2016		1,823,896		$	24.79		7.63	$	12,969,933
Vested and exercisable at December 31, 2016		1,608,248		$	17.48		3.80	$	23,198,547

The aggregate intrinsic value in the preceding table represents the total pretax intrinsic value, based on the weighted-average of the closing price as of December 30, 2016, of the Company’s Class A common of $31.90. The total intrinsic value of options exercised was $4.8 million during the year ended December 31, 2016, $2.6 million during the year ended December 31, 2015, and $18.7 million during the year ended December 31, 2014.

A summary of the status of the number of shares underlying Company’s non-vested stock options as of December 31, 2016, and changes during the year ended December 31, 2016, is as follows:

				Weighted
				Average
	Number of			Grant Date
Non-vested Shares	Shares			Fair Value
Non-vested at January 1, 2016		1,919,873		$	12.30
Granted		493,088			6.54
Vested		(527,883	)		10.56
Forfeited		(3,500	)		9.24
Non-vested at December 31, 2016		1,881,578		$	11.28

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The total fair value of vested options was $5.6 million during the year ended December 31, 2016, $5.1 million during the year ended December 31, 2015, and $3.3 million during the year ended December 31, 2014. The weighted-average grant date fair value of options granted was $6.54 per share during the year ended December 31, 2016, $11.27 per share during the year ended December 31, 2015, and $15.86 per share during the year ended December 31, 2014.

Stock Awards

The Company granted restricted stock units to certain of its employees under the 2007 Incentive Plan and unrestricted stock awards to its non-employee directors under the Director Plan during the year ended December 31, 2016. The restricted stock units granted to employees vest in three equal installments on the first, second and third anniversary of the grant date and are forfeited in the event the recipient’s employment or relationship with the Company is terminated prior to vesting. The fair value of the restricted stock units to the Company’s employees is amortized to expense on a straight-line basis over the restricted stock’s vesting period. The shares granted to non-employee directors are expensed on the grant date.

The following table presents a summary of the Company’s non-vested restricted stock units outstanding at December 31, 2016:

				Weighted
				Average				Weighted
				Remaining		Aggregate		Average
				Contractual		Intrinsic		Grant Date
Stock Awards and Units	Shares			Life (in Years)		Value		Fair Value
Outstanding Non-vested shares at January 1, 2016		483,335						$	24.73
Granted		268,890							17.57
Vested		(233,052	)						24.32
Forfeited		−							−
Outstanding Non-vested at December 31, 2016		519,173			8.6	$	16,561,618	$	21.21
Expected to vest after December 31, 2016		516,649			8.6	$	16,481,103

The total fair value of the shares issued upon the vesting of stock awards during the year ended December 31, 2016 was $5.7 million. The weighted-average grant date fair value of stock awards and units granted was $17.57 per share during the year ended December 31, 2016, $24.75 per share during the year ended December 31, 2015, and $26.81 per share during the year ended December 31, 2014.

As of December 31, 2016, there was $13.3 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested share-based compensation arrangements granted under the Incentive Plan and the 2007 Incentive Plan. That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 2.2 years.

Defined Contribution Plan

The Company has a defined contribution plan (the “Rush 401k Plan”), which is available to all Company employees and the employees of certain affiliates. Each employee who has completed 90 days of continuous service is entitled to enter the Rush 401k Plan on the first day of the following month. Participating employees may contribute from 1% to 50% of total gross compensation. However, certain highly compensated employees are limited to a maximum contribution of 15% of total gross compensation. Effective February 1, 2012, for the first 10% of an employee’s contribution, the Company contributed an amount equal to 20% of the employees’ contributions for those employees with less than five years of service and an amount equal to 40% of the employees’ contributions for those employees with more than five years of service. The Company incurred expenses related to the Rush 401k Plan of approximately $6.5 million during the year ended December 31, 2016, $6.2 million during the year ended December 31, 2015, and $5.2 million during the year ended December 31, 2014.

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Deferred Compensation Plan

On November 6, 2010 the Board of Directors of the Company adopted the Rush Enterprises, Inc. Deferred Compensation Plan (the “Deferred Compensation Plan”) pursuant to which selected employees and directors may elect to defer a portion of their annual compensation. The Deferred Compensation Plan also provides the Company with the discretion to make matching contributions to participants’ accounts. The Company established a rabbi trust to finance obligations under the Deferred Compensation Plan with corporate-owned variable life insurance contracts. Participants are 100% vested in their respective deferrals and the earnings thereon. The first deferral election period began on January 1, 2011. The Company’s liability related to the Deferred Compensation Plan was $7.2 million on December 31, 2016 and $4.9 million on December 31, 2015. The related cash surrender value of the life insurance contracts was $6.8 million on December 31, 2016 and $4.8 million on December 31, 2015.

The Company currently does not provide any post-retirement benefits nor does it provide any post-employment benefits.

12.     EARNINGS PER SHARE:

Basic earnings per share (“EPS”) were computed by dividing income from continuing operations by the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the period. Diluted EPS differs from basic EPS due to the assumed conversions of potentially dilutive options and restricted shares that were outstanding during the period.

Each share of Class A Common Stock ranks equal to each share of Class B Common Stock with respect to receipt of any dividends or distributions declared on shares of common stock and the right to receive proceeds on liquidation or dissolution of us after payment of our indebtedness and liquidation preference payments to holders of any preferred shares. However, holders of Class A Common Stock have 1/20th of one vote per share on all matters requiring a shareholder vote, while holders of Class B Common Stock have one full vote per share.

The following is a reconciliation of the numerators and the denominators of the basic and diluted per share computations for income from continuing operations (in thousands, except per share amounts):

	2016		2015		2014
Numerator-
Numerator for basic and diluted earnings per share -
Net income available to common shareholders	$	40,582	$	66,053	$	79,957
Denominator-
Denominator for basic earnings per share – weighted average shares		39,938		40,271		39,783
Effect of dilutive securities-
Employee and director stock options and restricted share awards		665		822		1,111
Denominator for diluted earnings per share - adjusted weighted average shares and assumed conversions		40,603		41,093		40,894
Basic earnings per common share	$	1.02	$	1.64	$	2.01
Diluted earnings per common share and common share equivalents	$	1.00	$	1.61	$	1.96

Options to purchase shares of common stock that were outstanding for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 that were not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share because the effect would have been anti-dilutive are as follows (in thousands):

	2016		2015		2014
Anti-dilutive options – weighted average		2,043		1,186		482

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13.     INCOME TAXES:

Provision for Income Taxes

The tax provisions are summarized as follows (in thousands):

	Year Ended December 31,
	2016		2015		2014
Current provision-
Federal	$	15,236	$	7,513	$	21,826
State		2,300		2,592		3,531
		17,536		10,105		25,357
Deferred provision-
Federal		8,260		29,561		23,243
State		71		2,084		1,986
		8,331		31,645		25,229
Provision (benefit) for income taxes	$	25,867	$	41,750	$	50,586

A reconciliation of taxes based on the federal statutory rates and the provisions (benefits) for income taxes are summarized as follows (in thousands):

	Year Ended December 31,
	2016		2015		2014
Income taxes at the federal statutory rate	$	23,255	$	37,733	$	45,691
State income taxes, net of federal benefit		1,552		3,053		3,398
Tax effect of permanent differences		887		959		1,069
Other, net		173		5		428
Provision for income taxes	$	25,867	$	41,750	$	50,586

The components of income taxes recorded in other comprehensive income and paid in capital consisted of the following (in thousands):

	Year Ended December 31,
	2016		2015		2014
Income tax expense (benefit) related to components of other comprehensive income:
Change in fair value of cash flow swaps	$	−	$	92	$	308
Change in fair value of available-for-sale securities		13		7		166
Total	$	13	$	99	$	474
Paid in capital – stock based compensation	$	294	$	337	$	(5,207	)

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The following summarizes the components of net deferred income tax liabilities included in the balance sheet (in thousands):

	December 31,
	2016			2015
Deferred income tax (assets) liabilities:
Inventory	$	(5,074	)	$	(6,039	)
Accounts receivable		(203	)		(187	)
Capital lease obligations		(31,263	)		(30,993	)
Stock options		(11,655	)		(10,719	)
Accrued liabilities		(3,610	)		(3,685	)
State net operating loss carry forward		(1,921	)		(1,570	)
State tax credit		(380	)		(382	)
Other		(5,170	)		(2,606	)
Difference between book and tax basis- Depreciation and amortization		256,352			244,716
		197,076			188,535
Valuation allowance		255			452
Net deferred income tax liability	$	197,331		$	188,987

At December 31, 2016, the Company had approximately $44.6 million in state net operating loss carry forwards that expire from 2016 through 2036. The Company has a valuation allowance of $255,000 associated with state net operating losses. The valuation allowance decreased by $197,000 due to uncertainty regarding the ability to utilize the losses.

The Company had unrecognized income tax benefits totaling $2.4 million as a component of accrued liabilities at December 31, 2016, and $2.3 million at December 31, 2015, the total of which, if recognized, would impact the Company’s effective tax rate. An unfavorable settlement would require a charge to income tax expense and a favorable resolution would be recognized as a reduction to income tax expense. The Company recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense. During the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, the Company recognized approximately $34,800, $11,600, and $17,500 in interest. No amounts were accrued for penalties. The Company had approximately $145,000, $110,100 and $98,500 for the payment of interest accrued at December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

The Company does not anticipate a significant change in the amount of unrecognized tax benefits in the next 12 months. As of December 31, 2016, the tax years ended December 31, 2013 through 2016 remained subject to audit by federal tax authorities and the tax years ended December 31, 2012 through 2016, remained subject to audit by state tax authorities.

A reconciliation of the change in the unrecognized tax benefits is as follows (in thousands):

	2016			2015			2014
Unrecognized tax benefits at beginning of period	$	2,332		$	2,087		$	1,545
Gross increases – tax positions in current year		429			692			815
Gross increases – tax positions in a prior year					−			−
Reductions due to lapse of statute of limitations		(360	)		(447	)		(273	)
Unrecognized tax benefits at end of period	$	2,401		$	2,332		$	2,087

14.     COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES:

From time to time, the Company is involved in litigation arising out of its operations in the ordinary course of business. The Company maintains liability insurance, including product liability coverage, in amounts deemed adequate by management. To date, aggregate costs to the Company for claims, including product liability actions, have not been material. However, an uninsured or partially insured claim, or claim for which indemnification is not available, could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition or results of operations. The Company believes that there are no claims or litigation pending, the outcome of which could have a material adverse effect on its financial position or results of operations. However, due to the inherent uncertainty of litigation, there can be no assurance that the resolution of any particular claim or proceeding would not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition or results of operations for the fiscal period in which such resolution occurred.

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The Company has purchase obligations of approximately $8.1 million at December 31, 2016 related to the Company’s construction contracts for a facility in Houston, Texas and a real estate purchase agreement for Las Vegas, Nevada. The Company also has contractual obligations of $14.9 million with IBM for management services related to the Company’s SAP enterprise software and dealership management system and SAP America, Inc. with respect to the Software License Agreement for the SAP enterprise software and dealership management system.

15.     ACQUISITIONS:

All of the following acquisitions, unless otherwise noted, were considered business combinations accounted for under ASC 805 “Business Combinations.” Pro forma information is not included in accordance with ASC 805 since no acquisitions were considered material individually or in the aggregate.

On May 27, 2016, we acquired certain assets of Transwest Truck Center Las Vegas, LLC, which included a Ford truck franchise in Las Vegas, Nevada. The transaction was valued at approximately $0.8 million, with the purchase price paid in cash.

On September 28, 2015, in connection with the divestiture of the Company’s Peterbilt dealership in Charlotte, North Carolina, the Company acquired certain assets of Peterbilt of Las Vegas, Inc., which operated a commercial vehicle dealership in Las Vegas, Nevada.  This location is operating as a Rush Truck Center and is a full-service Peterbilt dealership. The acquisition also included a PacLease commercial vehicle rental and leasing business.  The dealership swap was a like-kind exchange for tax purposes and enabled the Company to be consistent with its strategy of not having dealerships representing multiple Class 8 manufacturers in the same market as the Company continues to operate a facility representing International, Hino and Isuzu trucks in Charlotte. The sale price for the assets in Charlotte, North Carolina was approximately $6.4 million, which was offset by floor plan and accounts payable of $5.9 million.

The purchase price for the assets in Las Vegas, Nevada was approximately $3.4 million, which was paid in cash. The operations of Peterbilt of Las Vegas, Inc. are included in the accompanying consolidated financial statements from the date of the acquisition. The purchase price was allocated based on the fair values of the assets at the date of acquisition as follows (in thousands):

Property, equipment and capital lease assets	$	17,241
Inventory		3,662
Prepaid expenses		295
Other		37
Accrued expenses		(960	)
Capital lease obligations		(16,925	)
Total	$	3,350

On July 27, 2015, the Company acquired certain assets of Dallas Truck Center, Inc., which included real estate and used truck inventory, in Dallas, Texas. This location is operating as Rig Tough Used Trucks, Dallas. The transaction was valued at approximately $3.3 million, with the purchase price paid in cash.

Property	$	2,308
Inventory		949
Total	$	3,257

On May 4, 2015, the Company acquired certain assets of Yancey Truck Centers, LLC, which operated commercial vehicle dealerships in Albany, Blackshear, Tifton, Valdosta, Augusta, Columbus and Macon, Georgia.  Certain of these locations are operating as Rush Truck Centers and offer commercial vehicle sales, parts and service for International trucks.  The acquisition also included an Idealease commercial vehicle rental and leasing business. 

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The purchase price for the assets, goodwill, franchise rights and dealership properties was approximately $30.1 million, which was paid in cash. The operations of Yancey Truck Centers, LLC are included in the accompanying consolidated financial statements from the date of the acquisition. The purchase price was allocated based on the fair values of the assets at the date of acquisition as follows (in thousands):

Goodwill	$	11,670
Property and equipment		11,316
Inventory		7,206
Other		85
Accrued expenses		(220	)
Total	$	30,057

All of the goodwill acquired in the Yancey Truck Centers, LLC acquisition will be amortized over 15 years for tax purposes.

On February 9, 2015, the Company acquired certain assets of Effingham Truck Sales, Inc. The acquisition included International commercial truck dealerships and an Idealease commercial vehicle rental and leasing business in Effingham and Mount Vernon, Illinois.

The purchase price for the assets, membership interests, goodwill, and dealership properties was approximately $25.3 million, which was paid in cash. The operations of Effingham Truck Sales, Inc. are included in the accompanying consolidated financial statements from the date of the acquisition. The purchase price was allocated based on the fair values of the assets at the date of acquisition as follows (in thousands):

Goodwill	$	9,159
Inventory		7,622
Property and equipment		7,090
Accounts receivable		1,306
Prepaid expenses		80
Other		4
Total	$	25,261

All of the goodwill acquired in the Effingham Truck Sales, Inc. acquisition will be amortized over 15 years for tax purposes.

16.     ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME:

The following table shows the components of accumulated other comprehensive loss (in thousands):

	Cash Flow Swaps			Available for Sale Securities			Total
Balance as of December 31, 2014	$	(143	)	$	(317	)	$	(460	)
Changes in fair value		235			19			254
Income tax expense		(92	)		(7	)		(99	)
Balance as of December 31, 2015	$	−		$	(305	)	$	(305	)
Reclassification of gain into income		−			32			32
Income tax expense		−			(13	)		(13	)
Balance as of December 31, 2016	$	−		$	(286	)	$	(286	)

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The following table shows the amount of loss reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss into earnings (in thousands):

	Year Ended
	December 31, 2016		December 31, 2015			December 31, 2014
Losses on cash flow swaps to:
Interest expense	$	−	$	(55	)	$	(196	)
Income tax benefit		−		21			76
Total reclassifications	$	−	$	(34	)	$	(120	)

17.     UNAUDITED QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA:

(In thousands, except per share amounts.)

	First		Second		Third		Fourth
	Quarter		Quarter		Quarter		Quarter
2016
Revenues	$	1,070,840	$	1,026,462	$	1,096,041	$	1,021,271
Gross profit		183,270		180,478		181,316		172,948
Operating income		8,181		21,572		27,588		23,387
Income before income taxes		3,942		17,809		24,303		20,395
Net income	$	2,395	$	10,817	$	14,880	$	12,490
Earnings per share:
Basic	$	0.06	$	0.27	$	0.38	$	0.32
Diluted	$	0.06	$	0.27	$	0.37	$	0.31
2015
Revenues	$	1,193,535	$	917,878	$	1,294,076	$	1,161,819
Gross profit		193,622		207,633		208,008		175,684
Operating income		30,329		35,560		36,030		19,357
Income before income taxes		27,388		31,962		32,462		15,991
Net income	$	16,781	$	19,576	$	19,883	$	9,813
Earnings per share:
Basic	$	0.42	$	0.49	$	0.49	$	0.24
Diluted	$	0.41	$	0.48	$	0.48	$	0.24

18.     SEGMENTS:

The Company currently has one reportable business segment - the Truck Segment. The Truck Segment includes the Company’s operation of a nationwide network of commercial vehicle dealerships that provide an integrated one-stop source for the commercial vehicle needs of its customers, including retail sales of new and used commercial vehicles; aftermarket parts, service and body shop facilities; and a wide array of financial services, including the financing of new and used commercial vehicle purchases, insurance products and truck leasing and rentals. The commercial vehicle dealerships are deemed a single reporting unit because they have similar economic characteristics. The Company’s chief operating decision maker considers the entire Truck Segment, not individual dealerships or departments within our dealerships, when making decisions about resources to be allocated to the segment and assessing its performance.

The Company also has revenues attributable to three other operating segments. These segments include a retail tire company, an insurance agency and a guest ranch operation and are included in the All Other column below. None of these segments has ever met any of the quantitative thresholds for determining reportable segments.

The accounting policies of the segments are the same as those described in the summary of significant accounting policies. The Company evaluates performance based on income before income taxes, not including extraordinary items.

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The Company accounts for intersegment sales and transfers as if the sales or transfers were to third parties, that is, at current market prices. There were no material intersegment sales during the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 or 2014.

The following table contains summarized information about reportable segment revenue, segment income or loss from continuing operations and segment assets for the periods ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 (in thousands):

	Truck		All
	Segment		Other			Totals
2016
Revenues from external customers	$	4,199,348	$	15,266		$	4,214,614
Interest income		621		–			621
Interest expense		14,740		160			14,900
Depreciation and amortization		50,771		490			51,261
Segment operating income		81,483		(756	)		80,728
Segment income (loss) from continuing operations before taxes		67,364		(915	)		66,449
Segment assets		2,570,016		33,031			2,603,047
Goodwill		287,631		2,560			290,191
Expenditures for segment assets		196,704		261			196,965
2015
Revenues from external customers	$	4,964,642	$	15,091		$	4,979,733
Interest income		490		–			490
Interest expense		13,814		149			13,963
Depreciation and amortization		43,355		504			43,859
Segment operating income		122,907		(1,631	)		121,276
Segment income (loss) from continuing operations before taxes		109,583		(1,780	)		107,803
Segment assets		2,818,255		33,753			2,852,008
Goodwill		282,481		2,560			285,041
Expenditures for segment assets		367,482		308			367,790
2014
Revenues from external customers	$	4,708,978	$	18,378		$	4,727,356
Interest income		239		–			239
Interest expense		11,278		159			11,437
Depreciation and amortization		40,283		503			40,786
Segment operating income		142,074		(333	)		141,741
Segment income (loss) from continuing operations before taxes		131,035		(492	)		130,543
Segment assets		2,646,018		29,857			2,675,875
Goodwill		262,585		2,560			265,145
Expenditures for segment assets		262,613		510			263,123

19.     ASSET IMPAIRMENT:

During the fourth quarter of 2014, the Company initiated a plan to sell its corporate aircraft and met all of the initial criteria of ASC 360, “Property, Plant and Equipment” to classify the corporate asset as an asset held for sale.  It was determined that the carrying value of the corporate aircraft was no longer recoverable, and the Company recognized a $3.4 million in pre-tax non-cash asset impairment charge during the twelve months ended December 31, 2014.  As a result, the Company adjusted the carrying value of its corporate aircraft to its estimated fair market value less costs to sell in accordance with ASC 820, “Fair Value Measurement.”  The impairment loss is included in depreciation and amortization expense as of December 31, 2014, on the Consolidated Statements of Income. This aircraft was sold in connection with the purchase of a replacement aircraft in 2015 and no additional loss was incurred.

20.     RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS:

During the year ended December 31, 2014, the Company entered into a loan agreement with CCTTS, a related party, that provides for advances up to $16.0 million to finance commercial vehicle inventory. Borrowings under this loan agreement bear interest at the three month LIBOR rate plus 4.0% and the interest is payable monthly. Amounts advanced under the loan agreement are due when the related commercial vehicle inventory is sold by the related party. The Company had a $10.2 million receivable under the loan agreement at December 31, 2016 and $10.6 million at December 31, 2015.

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21.     RESTRUCTURING COSTS:

During the first quarter of 2016, the Company instituted plans to consolidate its dealership network. The Company incurred pre-tax expense of approximately $9.0 million related to costs associated with the restructuring activities, including asset impairment charges.

The restructuring costs included $3.2 million associated with impairment charges to certain fixed assets and the value of the real estate underlying the affected locations, which was reported in selling, general and administrative expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income. See Note 9 – Financial Instruments and Fair Value, for further discussion on the impairment charge related to the value of real estate in the affected locations. The restructuring costs also included $0.7 million associated with severance benefits for the reduction of approximately 100 employees, lease cancellation fees and contract termination costs that were reported as selling, general and administrative expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income.

In addition, the Company classified certain excess real estate as held for sale, which resulted in an impairment charge of $5.0 million that was reported in selling, general and administrative expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income for 2016.

During the third and fourth quarters of 2016, the Company sold four of the properties with a fair value of $6.1 million. As of December 31, 2016, the remaining real estate associated with the dealership consolidation and owned by the Company and the Company’s excess real estate is included in assets held for sale on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

The restructuring costs and the assets held for sale are reported under the Truck Segment.

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Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

None.

Item 9A. Controls and Procedures

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

In accordance with Exchange Act Rules 13a-15 and 15d-15, the Company carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of management, including its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of its disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on that evaluation, the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that its disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of December 31, 2016, to ensure that information required to be disclosed in its reports filed or submitted under the Exchange Act is (1) recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms and (2) accumulated and communicated to the Company’s management, including its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

There were no changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting during the quarter ended December 31, 2016 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting

The Company’s management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting for the Company. The Company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed under the supervision of the Company’s President and Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of the Company’s financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.

As of December 31, 2016, management assessed the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on the criteria for effective internal control over financial reporting established in “Internal Control – Integrated Framework,” issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations (COSO) of the Treadway Commission (2013 Framework). Based on the assessment, management determined that the Company maintained effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2016, based on those criteria.

Ernst & Young LLP, the independent registered public accounting firm that audited the consolidated financial statements of the Company included in this annual report on Form 10-K, has issued an attestation report on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2016. The report, which expresses an unqualified opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2016, is included in this Item 9A under the heading “Attestation Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.”

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Attestation Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of Rush Enterprises, Inc.

We have audited Rush Enterprises, Inc. and subsidiaries’ internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2016, based on criteria established in Internal Control − Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (2013 Framework) (the COSO criteria). Rush Enterprises, Inc. and subsidiaries’ management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting, and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting included in the accompanying Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

In our opinion, Rush Enterprises, Inc. and subsidiaries maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2016, based on the COSO criteria.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheets of Rush Enterprises, Inc. and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2016, and 2015, and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, shareholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2016, of Rush Enterprises, Inc. and subsidiaries and our report dated March 1, 2017 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.

/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

San Antonio, Texas

March 1, 2017

Item 9B. Other Information

None.

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PART III

Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance

The information called for by Item 10 of Form 10-K is incorporated herein by reference to such information included in the Company’s Proxy Statement for the 2017 Annual Meeting of Shareholders.

Code of Ethics

We maintain a code of ethics applicable to our principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or controller, and other persons performing similar functions. To view this code of ethics free of charge, please visit our website at www.rushenterprises.com (This website address is not intended to function as a hyperlink, and the information contained in our website is not incorporated in to this report or otherwise made part of this report). We intend to satisfy the disclosure requirements under Item 5.05 of Form 8-K regarding an amendment to, or waiver from, a provision of this code of ethics, if any, by posting such information on our website set forth above.

Item 11. Executive Compensation

The information called for by Item 11 of Form 10-K is incorporated herein by reference to such information included in the Company’s Proxy Statement for the 2017 Annual Meeting of Shareholders.

Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Shareholder Matters

The information called for by Item 12 of Form 10-K, other than the equity compensation plan information set forth below, is incorporated herein by reference to such information included in the Company’s Proxy Statement for the 2017 Annual Meeting of Shareholders.

Equity Compensation Plan Information

The Equity Compensation Plan Information Table provides information as of December 31, 2016, with respect to shares of Class A and Class B Common Stock that may be issued under our existing equity compensation plans, including the Rush Enterprises, Inc. 2006 Non-Employee Director Stock Plan, the Rush Enterprises, Inc. 2007 Long-Term Incentive Plan, The Rush Enterprises, Inc. Long-Term Incentive Plan, as amended (adopted by the Company’s shareholders in May 1996).

Class A Common Stock:

Plan Category	Number of securities to be issued upon exercise of outstanding options, warrants and rights as of December 31, 2016 (a)		Weighted-average exercise price of outstanding options, warrants and rights as of December 31, 2016 (b)		Number of securities remaining available for future issuance under equity compensation plans as of December 31, 2016 (excluding securities reflected in column (a)) (c)
Equity compensation plans approved by security holders		3,500,342	$	21.36		1,021,043
Equity compensation plans not approved by security holders		−		−		−
Total		3,500,342		−		1,021,043	(1)

(1) Includes 1,527,701 shares that may be issued in the form of restricted stock under the Rush Enterprises, Inc. 2006 Non-Employee Director Stock Plan and the Rush Enterprises, Inc. 2007 Long-Term Incentive Plan.

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Class B Common Stock:

Plan Category	Number of securities to be issued upon exercise of outstanding options, warrants and rights as of December 31, 2016 (a)		Weighted-average exercise price of outstanding options, warrants and rights as of December 31, 2016 (b)		Number of securities remaining available for future issuance under equity compensation plans as of December 31, 2016 (excluding securities reflected in column (a)) (c)
Equity compensation plans approved by security holders		508,657	$	0		539,442
Equity compensation plans not approved by security holders		−		−		−
Total		508,657		−		539,442	(1)

(1) Includes 539,442 shares that may be issued in the form of restricted stock under the Rush Enterprises, Inc. 2007 Long-Term Incentive Plan.

Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence

The information called for by Item 13 of Form 10-K is incorporated herein by reference to such information included in the Company’s Proxy Statement for the 2017 Annual Meeting of Shareholders.

Item 14. Principal Accountant Fees and Services

The information called for by Item 14 of Form 10-K is incorporated herein by reference to such information included in the Company’s Proxy Statement for the 2017 Annual Meeting of Shareholders.

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PART IV

Item 15. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules

(a)(1) Financial Statements

Included in Item 8 of Part II of this annual report on Form 10-K are the following:

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm;

Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2016, and 2015;

Consolidated Statements of Income for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015, and 2014;

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015, and 2014;

Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015, and 2014;

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015, and 2014; and

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

(a)(2) Financial Statement Schedules

These schedules are omitted as the required information is inapplicable or the information is presented in the consolidated financial statements or related notes.

(a)(3) Exhibits

Index to Exhibits:

Exhibit No.	Identification of Exhibit
3.1	Restated Articles of Incorporation of Rush Enterprises, Inc. (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1 of the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File No. 000-20797) for the quarter ended June 30, 2008)
3.2	Rush Enterprises, Inc. Amended and Restated Bylaws (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 000-20797) filed May 21, 2013)
4.1	Specimen of certificate representing Common Stock (now Class B Common Stock), $.01 par value, of Rush Enterprises, Inc. (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.1 of the Company’s Registration Statement No. 333-03346 on Form S-1 filed April 10, 1996)
4.2	Specimen of certificate representing Class A Common Stock, $.01 par value, of the Registrant (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.1 of the Company’s Registration Statement on Form 8-A filed July 9, 2002)
10.1	Right of First Refusal dated December 19, 2012 between Peterbilt Motors Company and W. Marvin Rush (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 000-20797) filed December 20, 2012)
10.2	Right of First Refusal dated December 19, 2012 between Peterbilt Motors Company and W.M. “Rusty” Rush (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10. of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 000-20797) filed December 20, 2012)
10.3+	Rush Enterprises, Inc. Long-Term Incentive Plan, as amended (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.1 of the Company’s Registration Statement No. 333-117305 on Form S-8 filed July 12, 2004)
10.4+	Form of Rush Enterprises, Inc. Long-Term Incentive Plan Stock Option Agreement (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.85 of the Company’s Registration Statement No. 333-03346 on Form S-1 filed April 10, 1996)

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10.5+*	Rush Enterprises, Inc. 2004 Employee Stock Purchase Plan, as amended (as Amended and Restated Effective February 23, 2016)
10.6+	Rush Enterprises, Inc. Amended and Restated 2006 Non-Employee Director Stock Plan (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.10 of the Company’s Form 10-K (File No. 000-20797) for the year ended December 31, 2010)
10.7+	Form of Rush Enterprises, Inc. 2006 Non-Employee Director Stock Option Agreement (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.4 of the Company’s Registration Statement No. 333-138556 on Form S-8 filed November 9, 2006)
10.8+	Form of Rush Enterprises, Inc. 2006 Non-Employee Director Stock Plan Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Company’s Form 10-Q (File No. 000-20797) for the quarter ended June 30, 2012)
10.9+	Rush Enterprises, Inc. Amended and Restated 2007 Long-Term Incentive Plan (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 000-20797) filed July 24, 2014)
10.10+	Form of Rush Enterprises, Inc. 2007 Long-Term Incentive Plan Restricted Stock Unit Agreement (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 000-20797) filed March 14, 2012)
10.11+	Form of Rush Enterprises, Inc. 2007 Long-Term Incentive Plan Stock Option Agreement (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.4 of the Company’s Form S-8 (File No. 333-144821) filed July 24, 2007)
10.12	Form of dealer agreement between Peterbilt Motors Company and Rush Truck Centers (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.18 of the Company’s Form 10-K (File No. 000-20797) for the year ended December 31, 1999)
10.13	Amended and Restated Amendment to Dealer Sales and Service Agreements, dated December 19, 2012, by and among Peterbilt Motors Company, a division of PACCAR, Inc., Rush Enterprises, Inc. and the subsidiaries of Rush Enterprises, Inc. named a party therein (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Company's Form 8-K (File No. 000-20797) filed December 20, 2012)
10.14	Guaranty Agreement, dated December 31, 2010, by Rush Enterprises, Inc. and each other Guarantor party thereto in favor of General Electric Capital Corporation. (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 000-20797) filed January 6, 2011)
10.15	Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated January 31, 2012, among Rush Truck Centers of Alabama, Inc., Rush Truck Centers of Arizona, Inc., Rush Truck Centers of California, Inc., Rush Medium Duty Truck Centers of Colorado, Inc., Rush Truck Centers of Colorado, Inc., Rush Truck Centers of Florida, Inc., Rush Truck Centers of Georgia, Inc., Rush Truck Centers of New Mexico, Inc., Rush Truck Centers of Oklahoma, Inc., Rush Truck Centers of Tennessee, Inc., Rush Truck Centers of North Carolina, Inc., Rush Truck Centers of Idaho, Inc., Rush Truck Centers of Utah, Inc., and Rush Truck Centers of Oregon, Inc., Rush Truck Centers of Texas, L.P., Rush Enterprises, Inc., the Lenders party thereto, and General Electric Capital Corporation (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 000-20797) filed February 2, 2012)

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10.16	First Amendment to Credit Agreement, dated March 29, 2012, by and among Rush Truck Centers of Alabama, Inc., Rush Truck Centers of Arizona, Inc., Rush Truck Centers of California, Inc., Rush Medium Duty Truck Centers of Colorado, Inc., Rush Truck Centers of Colorado, Inc., Rush Truck Centers of Florida, Inc., Rush Truck Centers of Georgia, Inc., Rush Truck Centers of New Mexico, Inc., Rush Truck Centers of Oklahoma, Inc., Rush Truck Centers of Tennessee, Inc., Rush Truck Centers of North Carolina, Inc., Rush Truck Centers of Idaho, Inc., Rush Truck Centers of Utah, Inc., and Rush Truck Centers of Oregon, Inc., Rush Truck Centers of Texas, L.P., Rush Enterprises, Inc., the Lenders party thereto, and General Electric Capital Corporation (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.3 of the Company’s Form 10-Q (File No. 000-20797) for the quarter ended March 31, 2012)
10.17	Second Amendment to Credit Agreement, dated December 31, 2012, among Rush Truck Centers of Alabama, Inc., Rush Truck Centers of Arizona, Inc., Rush Truck Centers of California, Inc., Rush Medium Duty Truck Centers of Colorado, Inc., Rush Truck Centers of Colorado, Inc., Rush Truck Centers of Florida, Inc., Rush Truck Centers of Georgia, Inc., Rush Truck Centers of New Mexico, Inc., Rush Truck Centers of Oklahoma, Inc., Rush Truck Centers of Tennessee, Inc., Rush Truck Centers of North Carolina, Inc., Rush Truck Centers of Idaho, Inc., Rush Truck Centers of Utah, Inc., and Rush Truck Centers of Oregon, Inc., Rush Truck Centers of Texas, L.P., Rush Truck Centers of Ohio, Inc., Rush Enterprises, Inc., the Lenders party thereto, and General Electric Capital Corporation (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 000-20797) filed January 3, 2013)
10.18	Third Amendment to Credit Agreement, dated July 11, 2013, among Rush Truck Centers of Alabama, Inc., Rush Truck Centers of Arizona, Inc., Rush Truck Centers of California, Inc., Rush Medium Duty Truck Centers of Colorado, Inc., Rush Truck Centers of Colorado, Inc., Rush Truck Centers of Florida, Inc., Rush Truck Centers of Georgia, Inc., Rush Truck Centers of New Mexico, Inc., Rush Truck Centers of Oklahoma, Inc., Rush Truck Centers of Tennessee, Inc., Rush Truck Centers of North Carolina, Inc., Rush Truck Centers of Idaho, Inc., Rush Truck Centers of Utah, Inc., Rush Truck Centers of Oregon, Inc., Rush Truck Centers of Ohio, Inc., Rush Truck Centers of Kansas, Inc., Rush Truck Centers of Missouri, Inc., Rush Truck Centers of Texas, L.P., Rush Enterprises, Inc., the Lenders party thereto, and GE Capital Commercial Inc. (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 000-20797) filed July 16, 2013)
10.19	Fourth Amendment to Credit Agreement, dated as of June 30, 2015 by and among the Company, the Lenders signatory thereto and GE Capital Commercial Inc., as Administrative Agent for the Lenders (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.01 on the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 000-20797 filed July 7, 2015)
10.20	Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of September 15, 2015 by and among the Company, the Lenders signatory thereto and GE Capital Commercial Inc., as Administrative Agent for the Lenders (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 on the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 000-20797) filed September 21, 2015)
10.21	Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of July 7, 2016 by and among the Company, the Lenders signatory thereto and BMO Harris Bank N.A., as Administrative Agent and Collateral Agent (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 000-20797) filed July 8, 2016)
10.22	Letter from BMO Harris Bank N.A. to Company dated December 4, 2015 Providing Notice of Account Information and Address Changes (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.24 of the Company’s Form 10-K (File No. 000-20797) for the year ended December 31, 2015)
10.23+	Rush Enterprises, Inc. Deferred Compensation Plan (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 000-20797) filed November 12, 2010)
10.24+	Form of Indemnity Agreement (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 000-20797) filed January 7, 2015)
10.25+	Rush Enterprises, Inc. Executive Transition Plan (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 000-20797) filed July 25, 2008)

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10.26+	Retirement and Transition Agreement, dated May 20, 2013, by and between the Company and W. Marvin Rush (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 000-20797) filed May 21, 2013)
21.1*	Subsidiaries of the Company
23.1*	Consent of Ernst & Young LLP
31.1*	Certification of President and Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Rules 13a-14(a) and 15d-14(a), as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
31.2*	Certification of Vice President and Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Rules 13a-14(a) and 15d-14(a), as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
32.1++	Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
32.2++	Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
101.INS*	XBRL Instance Document.
101.SCH*	XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.
101.CAL*	XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.
101.DEF*	XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.
101.LAB*	XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document
101.PRE*	XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document

* Filed herewith.

+ Management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement.

++ This exhibit shall not be deemed “filed” for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, or otherwise subject to the liability of that section, and shall not be deemed to be incorporated by reference into any filing under the Securities Act of 1933 or the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

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SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

RUSH ENTERPRISES, INC.
By:     /s/   W. M.”RUSTY” RUSH	Date: March 1, 2017
W. M. “Rusty” Rush
President, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities on the dates indicated:

Signature	Capacity	Date
/s/ W. M. “RUSTY” RUSH	President, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board	March 1, 2017
W. M. “Rusty” Rush	(Principal Executive Officer)
/s/ STEVEN L. KELLER	Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer	March 1, 2017
Steven L. Keller	(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)
/s/ THOMAS A. AKIN	Director	March 1, 2017
Thomas A. Akin
/s/ JAMES C. UNDERWOOD	Director	March 1, 2017
James C. Underwood
/s/ RAYMOND J. CHESS	Director	March 1, 2017
Raymond J. Chess
/s/ DR. KENNON GUGLIELMO	Director	March 1, 2017
Dr. Kennon Guglielmo
/s/ WILLIAM H. CARY	Director	March 1, 2017
William H. Cary

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EX-10.5

Exhibit 10.5

RUSH ENTERPRISES INC.
2004 EMPLOYEE STOCK PURCHASE PLAN
(As Amended and Restated Effective February 23, 2016)

1.             Purpose of Plan.

The purpose of the Plan is to advance the interests of Rush Enterprises Inc., a Texas corporation (the “Company”), and its shareholders by providing employees of the Company and its subsidiaries with an opportunity to acquire an ownership interest in the Company through the purchase of common stock of the Company on favorable terms through payroll deductions. It is the intention of the Company that the Plan qualify as an “employee stock purchase plan” under Section 423 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), and provisions of the Plan shall be construed consistent with such intention.

2.             Definitions.

The following terms will have the meanings set forth below, unless the context clearly otherwise requires:

2.1     “Agent” means the party or parties designated by the Company to provide Share Accounts and certain administrative services in connection with the Plan.

2.2     “Board” means the Board of Directors of the Company or any committee thereof to which the Board of Directors has delegated authority with respect to the Plan.

2.3     “Common Stock” means the Class A common stock, par value $.01 per share, of the Company, or the number and kind of shares of stock or other securities into which such common stock may be changed in accordance with Section 11 of the Plan.

2.4      “Committee” means the Compensation Committee of the Board, or such successor committee that meets the criteria specified in Section 3.

2.5    “Contribution Account” means an account established for each Participant to which payroll deductions under the Plan are credited in accordance with Section 7.

2.6    “Employee” means any person, including an officer, who is employed on a full-time or part-time basis by the Company or any of its Subsidiaries.

2.7      “Ending Date” means the last day of each Offering Period.

2.8      “Exchange Act” means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

2.9      “Fair Market Value” means, with respect to the Common Stock, as of any date:

(a) if the Common Stock is listed on any established stock exchange or a national market system, including without limitation, the NASDAQ Global Select Market, the NASDAQ Global Market, the NASDAQ Capital Market of The NASDAQ Stock Market, or the New York Stock Exchange, the closing sales price for such stock (or the closing bid, if no sales were reported) as quoted on such exchange or system on the day of determination, as reported in The Wall Street Journal or such other source as the Committee deems reliable; or

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(b) if the Common Stock is not so listed, such price as is determined in the manner specified by the Committee in its sole discretion, such manner to be acceptable under Section 423 of the Code.

2.10     “Grant Date” means the first day of each Offering Period.

2.11     “Insider” means any Employee who is subject to Section 16 of the Exchange Act.

2.12    “Offering Period” means each six-month period beginning on January 1 and ending on June 30, or beginning on July 1 and ending on December 31.

2.13     “Participant” means an eligible Employee who elects to participate in the Plan in accordance with Section 6.

2.14     “Plan” means the Rush Enterprises Inc. 2004 Employee Stock Purchase Plan, as amended from time to time.

2.15     “Share Account” means the brokerage account established by the Agent for each Participant to which shares of Common Stock purchased under the Plan are credited in accordance with Section 9. The Share Account will be established pursuant to a separate agreement between each Participant and the Agent.

2.16     “Subsidiary” means any subsidiary corporation of the Company within the meaning of Section 424(f) of the Code.

3.             Administration.

The Plan shall be administered by the Committee (or any successor thereto appointed by the Board consisting of not less than three members, all of whom must be members of the Board who are “Non-Employee Directors” as defined in Rule 16b-3 under the Exchange Act). Members of the Committee shall be appointed from time to time by the Board, shall serve at the pleasure of the Board, and may resign at any time upon written notice to the Board. A majority of the members of the Committee shall constitute a quorum. The Committee shall act by majority approval of the members, but action may be taken by the Committee without a meeting if unanimous written consent is given. In accordance with and subject to the provisions of the Plan, the Committee shall have authority to interpret the Plan, to make, amend and rescind rules and regulations regarding the Plan (including rules and regulations intended to insure that operation of the Plan complies with Section 16 of the Exchange Act), and to make all other determinations necessary or advisable in administering the Plan, all of which determinations shall be final and binding upon all persons. No member of the Committee shall be liable for any action or determination made in good faith with respect to the Plan or any option granted under it. To the extent consistent with corporate law, the Committee may delegate to any directors or officers of the Company the duties, power and authority of the Committee under the Plan pursuant to such conditions or limitations as the Committee may establish; provided, however, that only the Committee may exercise such duties, power and authority with respect to Insiders. The Committee may request advice or assistance or retain the services of such other persons as are necessary for the proper administration of the Plan.

4.             Eligibility.

Any person who is (a) an Employee on the last day of the calendar month immediately preceding a Grant Date, (b) is not on long-term disability or unpaid leave status at that time, and (c) has reached the age of majority in the state or province in which he or she resides shall be eligible to participate in the Plan for the Offering Period beginning on such Grant Date, subject to the limitations imposed by Section 423(b) of the Code.

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5.              Offering Periods.

Options to purchase shares of Common Stock shall be granted to Participants under the Plan through a series of consecutive Offering Periods. The first Offering Period under the Plan shall have a Grant Date of July 1, 2004 and an Ending Date of December 31, 2004. Offering Periods under the Plan shall continue until either (a) the Committee decides, in its sole discretion, to cancel future Offering Periods because the Common Stock remaining available under the Plan is insufficient to grant options to all eligible Employees, or (b) the Plan is terminated in accordance with Section 17 below. Notwithstanding the foregoing, and without limiting the authority of the Committee under Section 3, 11.2 and 17 of the Plan, the Committee, in its sole discretion, may (a) accelerate the Ending Date of the then current Offering Period and provide for the exercise of Options thereunder by Participants in accordance with Section 9 of the Plan, or (b) accelerate the Ending Date of the then current Offering Period and provide that all payroll deductions credited to the accounts of Participants will be paid to Participants as soon as practicable after such Ending Date and that all Options for such Offering Period will automatically be canceled and will no longer be exercisable.

6.             Participation.

Participation in the Plan is voluntary. An eligible Employee may become a Participant in the Plan by completing an enrollment form provided by the Company authorizing payroll deductions and the establishment of a Share Account, and filing the enrollment form with the Company’s Human Resources Department not later than the last business day of the month immediately preceding the Grant Date of the first Offering Period in which the Participant wishes to participate.

7.             Payroll Deductions.

7.1     Each Employee electing to participate in the Plan shall designate on the enrollment form the amount of money which he or she wishes to have deducted from his or her paycheck each pay day to purchase Common Stock pursuant to the Plan. The aggregate amount of such payroll deductions shall not be less than $25.00 per month, and shall not be more than $10,625.00 (85% of $12,500.00) per Offering Period, pro-rated equally over the number of pay days applicable to a Participant during each such Offering Period. Deductions for Plan purposes will not be withheld from compensation amounts, such as annual bonus or gain sharing payments, that are not part of a Participant’s normal and recurring compensation each payday.

7.2     Payroll deductions for a Participant shall commence on the first pay day on or after the Grant Date of the applicable Offering Period and shall continue until the termination date of the Plan, unless participation in the Plan is sooner terminated as provided in Section 10, the deduction amount is increased or decreased by the Participant as provided in Section 7.4, deductions are suspended as provided in Section 7.4 or the Offering Period is adjusted by the Committee as provided in Section 5. Except for a Participant’s rights to change the amount of, suspend or discontinue deductions pursuant to Sections 7.4 and 10, the same deduction amount shall be utilized for each pay day during subsequent Offering Periods, whether or not the Participant’s compensation level increases or decreases. If the pay period of any Participant changes, such as from weekly to semi-monthly, an appropriate adjustment shall be made to the deduction amount for each pay day corresponding to the new pay period, if necessary, so as to ensure the deduction of the proper amount as specified by the Participant in his or her enrollment form for that Offering Period.

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7.3     All payroll deductions authorized by a Participant shall be credited to the Participant’s Contribution Account. A Participant may not make any separate cash payment or contribution to such Contribution Account. Contribution Accounts shall be solely for bookkeeping purposes, and no separate fund or trust shall be established for payroll deductions. Until utilized to purchase shares of Common Stock, funds from payroll deductions shall be held as part of the Employers’ general assets, and the Employers shall not be obligated to segregate such funds. No interest shall accrue on a Participant’s payroll deductions under the Plan.

7.4     No increases or decreases in the amount of payroll deductions for a Participant may be made during an Offering Period. A Participant may increase or decrease the amount of his or her payroll deductions under the Plan, or may suspend such payroll deductions, for subsequent Offering Periods by completing a change form and filing it with the Company’s Human Resources Department not later than the last business day of the month immediately preceding the Grant Date for the Offering Period as of which such increase, decrease or suspension is to be effective.

7.5     Payroll deductions which are authorized by Participants who are paid other than in U.S. currency shall be withheld in Contribution Accounts in the country in which such Participant is employed until exercise of an option granted hereunder. Upon exercise of the option granted to such Participant, the amount so withheld shall be converted into U.S. dollars on the basis of the rate of exchange published in The Wall Street Journal for such currency into U.S. dollars as of the business day immediately preceding the Ending Date for such Offering Period. The purchase price shall thereupon be paid to the Company in U.S. dollars following such conversion, the extent to which the Participant may exercise an option therefore being dependent, in part, upon the applicable rate of currency exchange. If, as a result of fluctuations in the exchange rate between the U.S. dollar and a foreign currency during an Offering Period, a Participant who is paid in such foreign currency has less than the minimum permitted amount deducted during an Offering Period, the amount deducted will, nevertheless, be used to purchase Common Stock in accordance with the Plan.

8.             Grant of Option.

8.1     Subject to Section 8.2, on each Grant Date, each eligible Employee who is then a Participant shall be granted (by operation of the Plan) an option to purchase the number of whole and fractional shares (computed to the fourth decimal place) of Common Stock equal to the lesser of (a) the amount determined by dividing the amount of payroll deductions credited to his or her Contribution Account during the Offering Period beginning on such Grant Date by the Purchase Price specified in the following sentence, or (b) the amount determined by dividing $12,500.00 by the Fair Market Value of one share of Common Stock on the applicable Grant Date. The purchase price per share of such shares (the “Purchase Price”) shall be the lesser of (i) 85% of the Fair Market Value of one share of Common Stock on the applicable Grant Date, or (ii) 85% of the Fair Market Value of one share of Common Stock on the applicable Ending Date.

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8.2     Despite any provisions of the Plan that may provide or suggest otherwise:

(a) no Employee shall be granted an option under the Plan to the extent that immediately after the grant, such Employee (or any other person whose stock ownership would be attributed to such Employee pursuant to Section 424(d) of the Code) would own shares of Common Stock and/or hold outstanding options to purchase shares of Common Stock that would in the aggregate represent 5% or more of the total combined voting power or value of all classes of shares of the Company or of any Subsidiary;

(b) no Employee shall be granted an option under the Plan to the extent that the Employee’s rights to purchase shares of Common Stock under all “employee stock purchase plans” (within the meaning of Section 423 of the Code) of the Company and its Subsidiaries would accrue (i.e., become exercisable) at a rate that exceeds $25,000 of Fair Market Value of such shares of Common Stock (determined at the time such option is granted, which is the Grant Date) for each calendar year in which such option is outstanding at any time; or

(c) no Participant may purchase more than 10,000 shares of Common Stock under the Plan in any given Offering Period.

9.             Exercise of Option.

9.1     Unless a Participant withdraws from the Plan pursuant to Section 10, his or her option for the purchase of shares of Common Stock granted for an Offering Period will be exercised automatically and in full at the applicable Purchase Price as soon as practicable following the Ending Date of such Offering Period. If the full amount credited to a Participant’s Contribution Account during an Offering Period is not required to exercise such Participant’s option for that Offering Period in full (due to the applicability of clause (b) of Section 8.1 and/or fluctuations in the exchange rate between the U.S. dollar and the foreign currency in which such Participant is paid), the amount not required to exercise such option shall promptly be refunded to the Participant following the Ending Date of such Offering Period.

9.2     No Participant (or any person claiming through such Participant) shall have any interest in any Common Stock subject to an option under the Plan until such option has been exercised and the shares of Common Stock purchased, at which point such Participant shall have all of the rights and privileges of a shareholder of the Company with respect to shares purchased under the Plan. During his or her lifetime, a Participant’s option to purchase shares of Common Stock under the Plan is exercisable only by the Participant.

9.3     Shares of Common Stock purchased pursuant to the exercise of options hereunder shall be held in Share Accounts maintained for and in the name of each Participant by the Agent, such Agent or its nominee to be the record holder of such shares for the benefit of the Participant. The Agent shall provide each Participant with a quarterly statement of his or her Share Account.

9.4     Dividends paid with respect to shares credited to each Share Account will be themselves credited to such Account and, if paid in cash, will automatically be reinvested in whole and fractional shares of Common Stock.

9.5     A Participant may request that the Agent cause a stock certificate representing some or all of the number of whole shares of Common Stock credited to the Participant’s Share Account be issued in the name of the Participant. The Agent shall cause such certificate to be issued as soon as practicable after its receipt of such request and the payment by the Participant of any applicable issuance fees. From and after the date of the issuance of any such certificate, the number of shares credited to the Participant’s Share Account shall be reduced by the number of shares represented by such certificate, and the Participant shall thereafter be the record holder of the shares represented by such certificate.

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10.           Withdrawal; Termination of Employment.

10.1     A Participant may terminate his or her participation in the Plan and withdraw all, but not less than all, of the payroll deductions credited to his or her Contribution Account under the Plan at any time on or before the last business day of an Offering Period by giving written notice to the Company. Such notice shall (a) state that the Participant wishes to terminate participation in the Plan, (b) specify the withdrawal date, and (c) request the withdrawal of all of the Participant’s payroll deductions held under the Plan. All of the Participant’s payroll deductions credited to his or her Contribution Account will be paid to the Participant as soon as practicable after the withdrawal date specified in the notice of withdrawal (or, if no such date is specified, as soon as practicable after receipt of the notice of withdrawal), the Participant’s option for such Offering Period will be automatically canceled, and no further payroll deductions for the purchase of shares of Common Stock will be made for such Offering Period or for any subsequent Offering Period, except pursuant to a re-enrollment in the Plan as provided in Section 10.2.

10.2     If a Participant’s suspension of payroll deductions under the Plan pursuant to Section 7.4 continues for four consecutive Offering Periods, such suspension shall be deemed an election by the Participant to terminate his or her participation in the Plan, and such termination shall be effective as of the Ending Date of the second consecutive Offering Period during which no payroll deductions occurred. If, for any reason, a Participant’s net pay after withholding taxes and other applicable deductions not related to the Plan (such as for health and welfare benefits) each pay day becomes less than the amount the Participant has designated be deducted each pay day for contribution to the Plan, such occurrence shall be deemed an election by the Participant to terminate his or her participation in the Plan, and such termination shall be effective immediately. Following such termination, all of the Participant’s payroll deductions credited to his or her Contribution Account will be paid to the Participant as soon as practicable, the Participant’s option for such Offering Period will be automatically canceled, and no further payroll deductions for the purchase of shares of Common Stock will be made for such Offering Period or for any subsequent Offering Period, except pursuant to a re-enrollment in the Plan as provided in Section 10.4.

10.3     Upon termination of a Participant’s employment with the Employer for any reason, including retirement or death, his or her participation in the Plan will automatically cease and the payroll deductions accumulated in his or her Contribution Account will be returned to the Participant as soon as practicable after such employment termination or, in the case of death, to the person or persons entitled thereto under Section 12 below, and the Participant’s option for the current Offering Period will be automatically canceled. For purposes of the Plan, the termination date of employment shall be the Participant’s last date of actual employment and shall not include any period during which such Participant receives any severance payments.

10.4     A Participant’s termination of participation in the Plan pursuant to Section 10.1 or 10.2 will not have any effect upon his or her eligibility to participate in a subsequent Offering Period by completing and filing a new enrollment form in accordance with Section 6 or in any similar plan that may hereafter be adopted by the Company.

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11.           Stock Subject to the Plan.

11.1     The maximum number of shares of Common Stock that shall be reserved for sale under the Plan shall be 1,400,000 shares, subject to adjustment as provided in Sections 11.2 and 11.3. The shares to be sold to Participants under the Plan may be, at the election of the Company, either treasury shares or shares authorized but unissued. If the total number of shares of Common Stock that would otherwise be subject to options granted pursuant to Section 8 on any Ending Date exceeds the number of shares then available under the Plan (after deduction of all shares for which options have been exercised or are then outstanding), the Committee shall make a pro rata allocation of the shares of Common Stock remaining available for issuance in as uniform and equitable a manner as is practicable, as determined in the Committee’s sole discretion. In such event, the Company shall give written notice of such reduction of the number of shares subject to the option to each Participant affected thereby and shall return any excess funds accumulated in each Participant’s Contribution Account as soon as practicable after the Ending Date of such Offering Period.

11.2     In the event of any reorganization, merger, consolidation, recapitalization, liquidation, reclassification, stock dividend, stock split, combination of shares, rights offering, divestiture or extraordinary dividend (including a spin-off) or any other similar change in the corporate structure or shares of the Company, the Committee (or, if the Company is not the surviving corporation in any such transaction, the board of directors of the surviving corporation) will make appropriate adjustments (which determination will be conclusive) as to the number and kind of securities or other property (including cash) available for issuance or payment under the Plan and, in order to prevent dilution or enlargement of the rights of Participants, (a) the number and kind of securities or other property (including cash) subject to each outstanding option, and (b) the Purchase Price of outstanding options.

11.3     Subject to the following provisions of this Section 11.3, if the Company is the surviving corporation in any reorganization, merger or consolidation with or involving one or more other corporations, each outstanding option under the Plan shall apply to the amount and kind of securities to which a holder of the number of shares of Common Stock subject to such option would have been entitled immediately following such reorganization, merger or consolidation, with a corresponding proportionate adjustment of the Purchase Price. If there is a (a) dissolution or liquidation of the Company, (b) merger, consolidation or reorganization of the Company with one or more other corporations in which the Company is not the surviving corporation, (c) sale of all or substantially all of the assets of the Company to another person or entity, or (d) transaction (including a merger or reorganization in which the Company is the surviving corporation) approved by the Board that results in any person or entity owning more than 50% of the combined voting power of all classes of stock of the Company, then the Plan and all options outstanding thereunder shall terminate, except as provided in the following sentence. If provision is made in writing in connection with such transaction for the continuation of the Plan and either the assumption of the options theretofore granted or the substitution for such options of new options covering the stock of a successor corporation (or a parent or subsidiary thereof), in either case with appropriate adjustments as to the number and kinds of shares and exercise prices, then the Plan shall continue in the manner and under the terms provided. If the Plan is terminated as provided in this Section 11.3, the current Offering Period shall be deemed to have ended on the last trading day prior to such termination, and the options of each Participant then outstanding shall be deemed to have been automatically exercised in accordance with Section 9.1 on such last trading day. The Committee shall cause written notice to be sent of an event that will result in such a termination to all Participants not later than the time the Company gives notice thereof to its shareholders. Adjustments under this Section 11.3 shall be made by the Committee, whose determination in that respect shall be final, binding and conclusive.

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12.           Designation of Beneficiary.

12.1     A Participant may file a written designation of a beneficiary who is to receive a cash refund of the amount, if any, from the Participant’s Contribution Account under the Plan in the event of such Participant’s death at a time when cash is held for his or her account. Disposition of shares of Common Stock in a Participant’s Share Account upon the Participant’s death shall be in accordance with the agreement governing the Share Account.

12.2     A designation of beneficiary pursuant to Section 12.1 may be changed by the Participant at any time by written notice. In the event of the death of a Participant in the absence of a valid designation of a beneficiary who is living at the time of such Participant’s death, the Company shall deliver such cash to the executor or administrator of the estate of the Participant; or, if no such executor or administrator has been appointed (to the knowledge of the Company), the Company in its discretion, may deliver such cash to the spouse or to any one or more dependents or relatives of the Participant; or, if no spouse, dependent or relative is known to the Company, then to such other person as the Company may designate.

13.           No Right to Employment.

Nothing in the Plan will interfere with or limit in any way the right of the Company or any of its subsidiaries to terminate the employment of any Employee or Participant at any time, nor confer upon any Employee or Participant any right to continue in the employ of the Company or any of its subsidiaries.

14.           Rights As a Shareholder.

As a holder of an Option under the Plan, a Participant will have no rights as a shareholder unless and until such Option is exercised and the Participant becomes the holder of record of shares of Common Stock. Except as otherwise provided in the Plan, no adjustment will be made for dividends or distributions with respect to Options as to which there is a record date preceding the date the Participant becomes the holder of record of such shares, except as the Committee may determine in its sole discretion.

15.           Transferability.

Neither payroll deductions credited to a Participant’s Contribution Account nor any rights with regard to the exercise of an option or to receive shares of Common Stock under the Plan may be assigned, transferred, pledged or otherwise disposed of in any way (other than by will or the laws of descent and distribution) by the Participant. Any such attempt at assignment, transfer, pledge or other disposition shall be without effect.

16.           Conditions of Sale.

Notwithstanding any other provision of the Plan or any agreements entered into pursuant to the Plan, the Company will not be required to issue any shares of Common Stock under the Plan, and a Participant may not sell, assign, transfer or otherwise dispose of shares of Common Stock issued pursuant to Options granted under the Plan, unless (a) there is in effect with respect to such shares a registration statement under the Securities Act and any applicable state or foreign securities laws or an exemption from such registration under the Securities Act and applicable state or foreign securities laws, and (b) there has been obtained any other consent, approval or permit from any other regulatory body that the Committee, in its sole discretion, deems necessary or advisable. The Company may condition such issuance, sale or transfer upon the receipt of any representations or agreements from the parties involved, and the placement of any legends on certificates representing shares of Common Stock, as may be deemed necessary or advisable by the Company in order to comply with such securities law or other restrictions.

8

17.           Amendment or Termination.

The Board may suspend or terminate the Plan or any portion thereof at any time, and may amend the Plan from time to time in such respects as the Board may deem advisable in order that Options under the Plan will conform to any change in applicable laws or regulations or in any other respect the Board may deem to be in the best interests of the Company; provided, however, that no amendments to the Plan will be effective without approval of the shareholders of the Company if shareholder approval of the amendment is then required pursuant to Section 423 of the Code or the rules of any stock exchange or similar regulatory body. Upon termination of the Plan, the Committee, in its sole discretion, may take any of the actions described in Section 5 of the Plan.

18.           Notices.

All notices or other communications by a Participant to the Company in connection with the Plan shall be deemed to have been duly given when received by the Senior Vice President & CFO of the Company or by any other person designated by the Company for the receipt of such notices or other communications, in the form and at the location specified by the Company.

19.           Effective Date.

This amendment and restatement of the Plan shall become effective on the date it is approved by the requisite vote of the Board, subject to approval by the Company’s shareholders.

20.           Miscellaneous.

The headings to sections of the Plan have been included for convenience of reference only. The Plan shall be interpreted and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Texas. References in the Plan to “$” or “dollars” shall be deemed to refer to United States dollars unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. 

9

EX-21.1

Exhibit 21.1

SUBSIDIARIES OF THE COMPANY

Name	State of Incorporation	Names Under Which Subsidiary Does Business
Rush Truck Centers of Alabama, Inc.	Delaware	Rush Truck Center, Mobile Rush Peterbilt Truck Center, Mobile
Rush Truck Centers of Arizona, Inc.	Delaware	Rush Truck Center, Phoenix Rush Peterbilt Truck Center, Phoenix Rush Truck Center, Flagstaff Rush Peterbilt Truck Center, Flagstaff Rush Truck Center, Tucson Rush Peterbilt Truck Center, Tucson Rush Truck Center, Yuma Rush Peterbilt Truck Center, Yuma
Rush Truck Centers of California, Inc.	Delaware	Rush Peterbilt Truck Center, Pico Rivera Rush Truck Center, Pico Rivera Rush Peterbilt Truck Center, Fontana Rush Truck Center, Fontana Rush Peterbilt Medium Duty Truck Center, Fontana Rush Isuzu Trucks, Fontana Rush Medium Duty Truck Center, Fontana Rush Towing Systems, Fontana Rush Truck Center, Fontana Used Trucks Rush Truck Center, Fontana Vocational Service Rush Truck Center, Long Beach Rush Peterbilt Truck Center, Long Beach Rush Truck Center, Sylmar Rush Peterbilt Truck Center, Sylmar Rush Truck Center, San Diego Rush Peterbilt Truck Center, San Diego Rush Truck Center, Whittier Rush Isuzu Trucks, Whittier Rush Peterbilt Truck Center, Whittier Rush Peterbilt Truck Center, Los Angeles Rush Truck Center, Los Angeles Rush Towing Systems, Fontana
Rush Medium Duty Truck Centers of Colorado, Inc.	Delaware	Rush Medium Duty Truck Center, Denver Rush Medium Duty Ford Trucks, Denver Rush Isuzu Trucks, Denver Rush Towing Systems, Denver
Rush Truck Centers of Colorado, Inc.	Delaware	Rush Truck Centers, Inc. Rush Peterbilt Truck Center, Denver Rush Truck Center, Denver Rush Peterbilt Truck Center, Greeley Rush Truck Center, Greeley Rush Peterbilt Truck Center, Pueblo Rush Truck Center, Pueblo

1

Rush Truck Centers of Florida, Inc.	Delaware	Rush Isuzu Trucks, Orlando Rush Truck Center, Orlando Rush Isuzu Truck Center, Orlando Rush Peterbilt Truck Center, Orlando Rush Truck Center, Orlando Light & Medium Duty Rush Truck Center, Orlando South Rush Peterbilt Truck Center, Orlando South Rush Truck Center, Orlando Used Trucks Rush Truck Center, Haines City Rush Peterbilt Truck Center, Haines City Rush Truck Center, Tampa Rush Peterbilt Truck Center, Tampa Rush Truck Center, Jacksonville Rush Peterbilt Truck Center, Jacksonville Rush Truck Center, Lake City Rush Peterbilt Truck Center, Lake City Rush Peterbilt Truck Center Rig Tough Used Trucks, Miami
Rush Truck Centers of Georgia, Inc.	Delaware	Rush Medium Duty Truck Center, Atlanta Rush Isuzu Trucks, Atlanta Rush Truck Center, Atlanta Rush Bus Center, Atlanta Rush International Truck Center, Atlanta Rush Collision Center, Atlanta Rush Truck Center, Atlanta Collision Center Rush Truck Center, Doraville Rush International Truck Center, Doraville Rush Isuzu Trucks, Doraville Rush Truck Center, Smyrna Rush Truck Center, Tifton Rush Bus Center, Tifton Rush Truck Center, Columbus Rush Truck Center, Gainesville Rush Truck Center, Augusta Rush Truck Center, Blackshear Rush Truck Center, Columbus Rush Truck Center, Columbus North Rush Truck Center, Columbus South Rush Truck Center, Macon Rush Truck Center, Valdosta
Rush Truck Centers of Idaho, Inc.	Delaware	Rush International Truck Center, Boise Rush International Truck Center, Idaho Falls Rush International Truck Center, Lewiston Rush International Truck Center, Twin Falls Rush Truck Center, Boise Rush Truck Center, Idaho Falls Rush Truck Center, Lewiston Rush Truck Center, Twin Falls
Rush Truck Centers of Illinois, Inc.	Delaware	Rush Truck Center, Bloomington Rush Truck Center, Carol Stream Rush Truck Center, Chambersburg Rush Truck Center, Champaign Rush Truck Center, Chicago Rush Truck Center, Effingham Rush Truck Center, Huntley Rush Truck Center, Joliet Rush Truck Center, Quincy Rush Truck Center, Springfield Collision Center Rush Truck Center, Springfield East Rush Truck Center, Springfield West House of Trucks House of Trucks, Willowbrook House of Trucks, Wilmington

2

Rush Truck Centers of Indiana, Inc.	Delaware	Rush Truck Center, Gary Rush Truck Center, Indianapolis
Rush Truck Centers of Kansas, Inc.	Delaware	Rush Truck Center, Kansas
Rush Truck Centers of Kentucky, Inc.	Delaware	Rush Truck Center, Bowling Green
Rush Truck Centers of Missouri, Inc.	Delaware	Rush Truck Center, St. Peters Rush Truck Center, St. Louis
Rush Truck Centers of Nevada. Inc.	Delaware	Rush Truck Center, Las Vegas Rush Peterbilt Truck Center, Las Vegas Rush Truck Leasing
Rush Truck Centers of New Mexico, Inc.	Delaware	Rush Truck Center, Albuquerque Rush Peterbilt Truck Center, Albuquerque Rush Truck Center, Las Cruces Rush Peterbilt Truck Center, Las Cruces
Rush Truck Centers of North Carolina, Inc.	Delaware	Rush Collision Center, Charlotte Rush International Truck Center, Charlotte Rush Isuzu Trucks, Charlotte Rush Truck Center, Charlotte Rush Truck Center Body Shop, Charlotte Rush Truck Center, Charlotte Collision Center Rush Truck Center, Hickory Rush Truck Center, Asheville
Rush Truck Centers of Ohio, Inc.	Delaware	Rush Truck Center, Akron Rush Isuzu Trucks, Akron Rush Truck Center, Cincinnati Rush Isuzu Trucks, Cincinnati Rush Truck Center, Cleveland Rush Isuzu Trucks, Cleveland Rush Truck Center, Columbus Rush Isuzu Trucks, Columbus Rush Truck Center, Columbus East Rush Isuzu Trucks, Columbus East Rush Truck Center, Columbus West Rush Isuzu Trucks, Columbus West Rush Truck Center, Columbus OH Rush Truck Center, Dayton Rush Isuzu Trucks, Dayton Rush Truck Center, Lima Rush Isuzu Trucks, Lima Rush Truck Center, Springfield, Ohio Rush Bus Center, Cincinnati RTC Truck Parts Rush Bus Center, Akron Rush Bus Center, Cleveland Rush Bus Center, Columbus Rush Bus Center, Columbus East Rush Bus Center, Columbus West Rush Bus Center, Dayton Rush Bus Center, Lima Rig Tough Truck Parts, Cincinnati
Rush Truck Centers of Oklahoma, Inc.	Delaware	Rush Peterbilt Truck Center, Ardmore Rush Peterbilt Truck Center, Oklahoma City Rush Peterbilt Truck Center, Tulsa Rush Truck Center, Ardmore Rush Truck Center, Oklahoma City Rush Truck Center, Tulsa Rush Isuzu Trucks, Oklahoma City Rush Used Truck Center, Tulsa Rush Truck Rigging Perfection Equipment Perfection Truck Parts & Equipment, Oklahoma City Perfection Truck Parts & Equipment, Tulsa Perfection Crane Services Translease Oklahoma Trucks, Inc. Tulsa Trucks, Inc.

3

Rush Truck Centers of Tennessee, Inc.	Delaware	Rush Truck Center, Nashville Rush Peterbilt Truck Center, Nashville Rush Towing Systems, Nashville
Rush Truck Centers of Texas, L.P.	Texas	Custom Vehicle Solutions Rig Tough Used Trucks, Dallas Rush Bus Center, Austin Rush Bus Center, Corpus Christi Rush Bus Center, Dallas Rush Bus Center, Dallas, Number 2 Rush Bus Center, Fort Worth Rush Bus Center, Houston Rush Bus Center, Laredo Rush Bus Center, Lufkin Rush Bus Center, Pharr Rush Bus Center, San Antonio Rush Bus Center, San Antonio, Number 2 Rush Bus Center, Sealy Rush Bus Center, Selma Rush Bus Center, Texarkana Rush Bus Center, Tyler Rush Bus Center, Waco Rush Isuzu Trucks, Austin Rush Isuzu Trucks, Corpus Christi Rush Isuzu Trucks, Dallas Rush Isuzu Trucks, El Paso Rush Isuzu Trucks, Sealy Rush Isuzu Trucks, Texarkana Rush Isuzu Trucks, Waco Rush Medium Duty Truck Center, Dallas Rush Medium Duty Truck Center, San Antonio Rush Medium Duty Truck Center, Waco Rush Peterbilt Truck Center, Abilene Rush Peterbilt Truck Center, Amarillo Rush Peterbilt Truck Center, Austin Rush Peterbilt Truck Center, Brownsville Rush Peterbilt Truck Center, College Station Rush Peterbilt Truck Center, Corpus Christi Rush Peterbilt Truck Center, Cotulla Rush Peterbilt Truck Center, Dalhart Rush Peterbilt Truck Center, Dallas Rush Peterbilt Truck Center, El Paso Rush Peterbilt Truck Center, Fort Worth Rush Peterbilt Truck Center, Houston Rush Peterbilt Truck Center, Houston Northwest Rush Peterbilt Truck Center, Laredo Rush Peterbilt Truck Center, Lubbock Rush Peterbilt Truck Center, Lufkin Rush Peterbilt Truck Center, Odessa Rush Peterbilt Truck Center, Pharr Rush Peterbilt Truck Center, San Antonio Rush Peterbilt Truck Center, Sealy Rush Peterbilt Truck Center, Texarkana Rush Peterbilt Truck Center, Tyler Rush Peterbilt Truck Center, Waco Rush Refuse Systems Rush Towing Systems Rush Towing Systems, Houston Rush Towing Systems, San Antonio Rush Truck Center Rush Truck Center, Abilene Rush Truck Center, Amarillo Rush Truck Center, Austin Rush Truck Center, Bryan Rush Truck Center, Brownsville Rush Truck Center, College Station Rush Truck Center, Corpus Christi Rush Truck Center, Cotulla Rush Truck Center, Dalhart Rush Truck Center, Dallas Rush Truck Center, Dallas Medium Duty Rush Truck Center, Dallas Light and Medium Duty Rush Truck Center, Denton Rush Truck Center, El Paso Rush Truck Center, Fort Worth Rush Truck Center, Houston Rush Truck Center, Houston Medium Duty Rush Truck Center, Houston Northwest Rush Truck Center, Laredo Rush Truck Center, Lubbock Rush Truck Center, Lufkin Rush Truck Center, New Braunfels Rush Truck Center, Odessa Rush Truck Center, Pharr Rush Truck Center, San Antonio Rush Truck Center, Sealy Rush Truck Center, Texarkana Rush Truck Center, Tyler Rush Truck Center, Waco Rush Crane and Refuse Systems International World Wide Tires

4

Rush Truck Centers of Utah, Inc.	Delaware	Rush International Truck Center, Salt Lake City Rush International Truck Center, Springville Rush International Truck Center, St. George Rush International Truck Center, Ogden Rush Truck Center, Salt Lake City Rush Truck Center, Springville Rush Truck Center, St. George Rush Truck Center, Ogden Rush Truck Center, Farr West
Rush Truck Centers of Virginia, Inc.	Delaware	Rush Truck Center, Richmond Rush Truck Center, Chester Rush Truck Center, Fredericksburg
Rush Truck Leasing, Inc.	Delaware	Rush Crane Systems Rush Idealease, Charlotte Rush Refuse Systems Akron Idealease Albany Idealease Augusta Idealease Asheville Idealease Boise Idealease Champaign Idealease Charlotte Idealease Chicago Idealease Cincinnati Idealease Cleveland Idealease Cleveland Idealease West Cleveland Idealease East Columbus Idealease Columbus Idealease East Columbus Idealease West Dayton Idealease Decatur Idealease Effingham Idealease Findlay Idealease Hickory Idealease Indianapolis Idealease Indy Idealease Lima Idealease Macon Idealease Norfolk Idealease Quincy Idealease Richmond Idealease Springfield Idealease St. Peters Idealease St. Louis Idealease Tidewater Idealease Valdosta Idealease

5

Advance Premium Finance, Inc.	California	None
AiRush, Inc.	Delaware	None
Associated Acceptance, Inc.	Texas	Associated Insurance Services Automotive Industry Insurance Associated Truck Insurance Services Rush Truck Insurance Services
Associated Acceptance of Florida, Inc.	Delaware	None
Associated Acceptance of Georgia, Inc.	Delaware	None
Associated Acceptance of Oklahoma, Inc.	Delaware	None
Blackshear Real Estate Holdings, Inc.	Delaware	None
Central California Truck and Trailer Sales, LLC	Texas	Vanguard of Southern California Central Arizona Truck and Trailer Sales Landoll of California
Commercial Fleet Technologies, Inc.	Delaware	Partsriver, Inc.
Idealease of Chicago LLC	Illinois	None
International General Agency, Inc.	Texas	None
Los Cuernos, Inc.	Delaware	Los Cuernos Ranch
Natural Gas Fuel Systems, Inc.	Delaware	Momentum Fuel Technologies
Rig Tough, Inc.	Delaware	None
RTC Illinois Acquisition Corp.	Delaware	Rush Truck Center, Effingham Rush Truck Center, Mount Vernon
RTC Nevada, LLC	Delaware	None

6

Rush Accessories Corporation	Delaware	Chrome Country
Rush Administrative Services, Inc.	Delaware	None
Rushco, Inc.	Delaware	None
Rush Equipment Centers of Texas, Inc.	Delaware	Rush Equipment Center, Houston Rush Equipment Rental Center, San Antonio
Rush Truck Centers do Brasil Participacoes LTDA	Brazil	None
Rush Logistics, Inc.	Delaware	None
Rush Real Estate Holdings, Inc.	Delaware	None
Rush Retail Centers, Inc.	Delaware	None
Rushtex, Inc.	Delaware	None
Rush Truck Center of Albuquerque, Inc.	New Mexico	None
Truck & Trailer Finance, Inc.	Delaware	None

7

EX-23.1

Exhibit 23.1

Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

We consent to the incorporation by reference in the following Registration Statements:

1. Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 333-198080) pertaining to the Rush Enterprises, Inc. 2007 Long-Term Incentive Plan;

2. Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 333-170732) pertaining to the Rush Enterprises, Inc. Deferred Compensation Plan;

3. Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 333-168231) pertaining to the Rush Enterprises, Inc. 2007 Long-Term Incentive Plan;

4. Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 333-144821) pertaining to the Rush Enterprises, Inc. 2007 Long-Term Incentive Plan;

5. Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 333-138556) pertaining to the Rush Enterprises, Inc. 2006 Non-Employee Director Stock Option Plan;

6. Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 333-121355) pertaining to the Rush Enterprises, Inc. Long-Term Incentive Plan, the Rush Enterprises, Inc. 2004 Employee Stock Purchase Plan and Certain Non-Plan Options;

7. Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 333-117305) pertaining to the Rush Enterprises, Inc. Long-Term Incentive Plan; and

8. Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 333-07043) pertaining to the Rush Enterprises, Inc. Long-Term Incentive Plan.

of our reports dated March 1, 2017, with respect to the consolidated financial statements of Rush Enterprises, Inc. and subsidiaries and the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting of Rush Enterprises, Inc. and subsidiaries, included in this Annual Report (Form 10-K) of Rush Enterprises, Inc. for the year ended December 31, 2016.

/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

San Antonio, Texas

March 1, 2017

EX-31.1

Exhibit 31.1

CERTIFICATION

I, W. M. “Rusty” Rush, certify that:

1.     I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of Rush Enterprises, Inc.;

2.     Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3.     Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4.     The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

a)     designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

b)     designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

c)     evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

d)     disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

5.     The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

a)     all significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

b)     any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date: March 1, 2017	By: /S/ W. M. “RUSTY” RUSH
	W. M. “Rusty” Rush
	President, Chief Executive Officer and
	Chairman of the Board
	(Principal Executive Officer)

EX-31.2

Exhibit 31.2

CERTIFICATION

I, Steven L. Keller, certify that:

1.     I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of Rush Enterprises, Inc.;

2.     Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3.     Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4.     The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

a)     designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

b)     designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

c)     evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

d)     disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

5.     The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

a)     all significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

b)     any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date: March 1, 2017
	By: /S/ STEVEN L. KELLER
	Steven L. Keller
	Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer
	(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)

EX-32.1

Exhibit 32.1

certification pursuant to
18 u.s.c. section 1350,
as adopted pursuant to
section 906 of the sarbanes-oxley act of 2002

In connection with this annual report of Rush Enterprises, Inc. (the “Company”) on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), I, W. M. “Rusty” Rush, President, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board of the Company, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:

1.     The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and

2.     The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.

By:	/S/ W. M. “RUSTY” RUSH
Name:	W. M. “Rusty” Rush
Title:	President, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board
Date:	March 1, 2017

EX-32.2

Exhibit 32.2

certification pursuant to
18 u.s.c. section 1350,
as adopted pursuant to
section 906 of the sarbanes-oxley act of 2002

In connection with this annual report of Rush Enterprises, Inc. (the “Company”) on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), I, Steven L. Keller, Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer of the Company, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:

1.     The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and

2.     The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.

By:	/S/ STEVEN L. KELLER
Name:	Steven L. Keller
Title:	Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer
Date:	March 1, 2017

XML

Document And Entity Information - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Feb. 22, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016
Document Information [Line Items]
Entity Registrant Name	RUSH ENTERPRISES INC \TX\
Entity Central Index Key	0001012019
Trading Symbol	rusha
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Public Float			$ 766,151,533
Document Type	10-K
Document Period End Date	Dec. 31, 2016
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2016
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Amendment Flag	false
Common Class B [Member]
Document Information [Line Items]
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding (in shares)		9,060,365
Common Class A [Member]
Document Information [Line Items]
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding (in shares)		30,355,636

XML

Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 82,026	$ 64,847
Accounts receivable, net	156,199	156,977
Note receivable affiliate	10,166	10,611
Inventories, net	840,304	1,061,198
Prepaid expenses and other	8,798	32,953
Assets held for sale	13,955
Total current assets	1,111,448	1,326,586
Investments	6,231	6,650
Property and equipment, net	1,135,805	1,172,824
Goodwill, net	290,191	285,041
Other assets, net	59,372	60,907
Total assets	2,603,047	2,852,008
Current liabilities:
Floor plan notes payable	646,945	854,758
Current maturities of long-term debt	130,717	151,024
Current maturities of capital lease obligations	14,449	14,691
Liabilities directly associated with assets held for sale	783
Trade accounts payable	97,844	120,255
Customer deposits	18,418	22,438
Accrued expenses	83,974	83,871
Total current liabilities	993,130	1,247,037
Long-term debt, net of current maturities	472,503	496,731
Capital lease obligations, net of current maturities	70,044	69,074
Other long-term liabilities	7,214	5,282
Deferred income taxes, net	197,331	188,987
Shareholders’ equity:
Preferred stock, par value $.01 per share; 1,000,000 shares authorized; 0 shares outstanding in 2016 and 2015
Common stock, par value $.01 per share; 60,000,000 Class A shares and 20,000,000 Class B shares authorized; 30,007,088 Class A shares and 9,245,447 Class B shares outstanding in 2016; and 30,303,818 Class A shares and 10,093,305 Class B shares outstanding in 2015	438	430
Additional paid-in capital	309,127	288,294
Treasury stock, at cost: 934,171 class A shares and 3,650,491 class B shares in 2016 and 2,616,657 class B shares in 2015	(86,882)	(43,368)
Retained earnings	640,428	599,846
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax	(286)	(305)
Total shareholders’ equity	862,825	844,897
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity	$ 2,603,047	$ 2,852,008

XML

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parentheticals) - $ / shares	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Preferred stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Preferred stock, shares authorized (in shares)	1,000,000	1,000,000
Preferred stock, shares outstanding (in shares)	0	0
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Common Class A [Member]
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares)	60,000,000	60,000,000
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares)	30,007,088	30,303,818
Treasury stock, shares (in shares)	934,171
Common Class B [Member]
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares)	20,000,000	20,000,000
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares)	9,245,447	10,093,305
Treasury stock, shares (in shares)	3,650,491	2,616,657

XML

Consolidated Statements of Income - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Revenues:
New and used commercial vehicle sales	$ 2,640,019	$ 3,360,808	$ 3,195,873
Parts and service sales	1,332,356	1,382,447	1,315,694
Lease and rental	208,154	199,867	177,561
Finance and insurance	18,582	21,150	19,988
Other	15,503	15,461	18,240
Total revenue	4,214,614	4,979,733	4,727,356
Cost of products sold:
New and used commercial vehicle sales	2,463,124	3,138,754	2,975,905
Parts and service sales	851,438	879,141	842,438
Operating Leases, Rent Expense	182,040	176,891	152,967
Total cost of products sold	3,496,602	4,194,786	3,971,310
Gross profit	718,012	784,947	756,046
Selling, general and administrative	587,778	619,268	573,670
Depreciation and amortization	51,261	43,859	40,786
Gain (loss) on sale of assets	1,755	(544)	151
Operating income	80,728	121,276	141,741
Interest income (expense):
Interest income	621	490	239
Interest expense	(14,900)	(13,963)	(11,437)
Total interest expense, net	14,279	13,473	11,198
Income before taxes	66,449	107,803	130,543
Provision for income taxes	25,867	41,750	50,586
Net income	$ 40,582	$ 66,053	$ 79,957
Earnings per common share:
Basic (in dollars per share)	$ 1.02	$ 1.64	$ 2.01
Diluted (in dollars per share)	$ 1	$ 1.61	$ 1.96

XML

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Net income	$ 40,582	$ 66,053	$ 79,957
Other comprehensive income before tax and net of reclassification adjustments:
Change in fair value of interest rate swaps		235	789
Change in fair value of available-for-sale securities	32	19	427
Other comprehensive income, before tax	32	254	1,216
Income tax expense related to components of other comprehensive income	13	99	474
Other comprehensive income, net of tax	19	155	742
Comprehensive income	$ 40,601	$ 66,208	$ 80,699

XML

Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Common Stock [Member] Common Class A [Member]	Common Stock [Member] Common Class B [Member]	Common Stock [Member]	Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]	Treasury Stock [Member]	Retained Earnings [Member]	AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member]	Total
Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2013	28,911,000	10,305,000
Balance at Dec. 31, 2013			$ 414	$ 243,154	$ (30,821)	$ 453,836	$ (1,202)	$ 665,381
Stock options exercised and stock awards (in shares)	872,000	30,000
Stock options exercised and stock awards			9	16,216				16,225
Stock-based compensation related to stock options, restricted shares and employee stock purchase plan				11,343				11,343
Vesting of restricted share awards (in shares)	42,000	113,000
Vesting of restricted share awards			1	311				312
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Employee Stock Purchase Plans	64,000
Issuance of common stock under employee stock purchase plan				1,462				1,462
Issuance of common stock related to business acquisition					1,170			1,170
Common stock repurchases (in shares)		(449,000)
Common stock repurchases					(12,253)			(12,253)
Other comprehensive income							742	742
Net income						79,957		79,957
Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2014	29,889,000	9,999,000
Balance at Dec. 31, 2014			424	272,486	(41,904)	533,793	(460)	764,339
Stock options exercised and stock awards (in shares)	182,000
Stock options exercised and stock awards			2	1,933				1,935
Stock-based compensation related to stock options, restricted shares and employee stock purchase plan				12,384				12,384
Vesting of restricted share awards (in shares)	147,000	150,000
Vesting of restricted share awards			3	(572)				(569)
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Employee Stock Purchase Plans	86,000
Issuance of common stock under employee stock purchase plan			1	2,063				2,064
Common stock repurchases (in shares)		(56,000)
Common stock repurchases					(1,464)			(1,464)
Other comprehensive income							155	155
Net income						66,053		66,053
Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2015	30,304,000	10,093,000
Balance at Dec. 31, 2015			430	288,294	(43,368)	599,846	(305)	$ 844,897
Stock options exercised and stock awards (in shares)	494,000							466,877
Stock options exercised and stock awards			5	6,152				$ 6,157
Stock-based compensation related to stock options, restricted shares and employee stock purchase plan				12,875				12,875
Vesting of restricted share awards (in shares)	6,000	186,000
Vesting of restricted share awards			2	(725)				(723)
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Employee Stock Purchase Plans	137,000
Issuance of common stock under employee stock purchase plan			1	2,531				2,532
Common stock repurchases (in shares)	(934,000)	(1,034,000)
Common stock repurchases					(43,514)			(43,514)
Other comprehensive income							19	19
Net income						40,582		40,582
Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2016	30,007,000	9,245,000
Balance at Dec. 31, 2016			$ 438	$ 309,127	$ (86,882)	$ 640,428	$ (286)	$ 862,825

XML

Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity (Parentheticals) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]
Stock options exercised and stock awards, tax	$ 294	$ 337	$ 5,207

XML

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	$ 40,582,000	$ 66,053,000	$ 79,957,000
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities-
Depreciation and amortization	157,627,000	144,935,000	126,452,000
(Gain) loss on sale of property and equipment, net	(1,755,000)	544,000	(151,000)
Loss on impairment of assets	8,247,000
Stock-based compensation expense related to employee stock options and employee stock purchases	12,875,000	12,384,000	11,343,000
Provision for deferred income tax expense	8,331,000	31,645,000	25,229,000
Excess tax expense (benefit) from stock-based compensation	294,000	337,000	(5,207,000)
Acquired research and development			2,000,000
Change in accounts receivable, net	1,673,000	11,921,000	(67,664,000)
Change in inventories	291,773,000	18,664,000	(151,911,000)
Change in prepaid expenses and other, net	24,155,000	(3,690,000)	(13,215,000)
Change in trade accounts payable	(22,411,000)	(4,154,000)	24,180,000
(Payments) draws on floor plan notes payable – trade, net	3,989,000	(17,005,000)	44,870,000
Change in customer deposits	(4,020,000)	(22,371,000)	(13,802,000)
Change in accrued expenses	(190,000)	(12,013,000)	26,856,000
Net cash provided by operating activities	521,170,000	227,250,000	88,937,000
Cash flows from investing activities:
Acquisition of property and equipment	(196,965,000)	(367,790,000)	(260,820,000)
Proceeds from the sale of property and equipment	12,494,000	3,319,000	249,000
Business acquisitions	(681,000)	(69,013,000)	(157,626,000)
Proceeds from the sale of available for sale securities	450,000	275,000	150,000
Other	(4,708,000)	(3,025,000)	1,631,000
Net cash used in investing activities	(189,410,000)	(436,234,000)	(416,416,000)
Cash flows from financing activities:
(Payments) draws on floor plan notes payable – non-trade, net	(211,802,000)	31,568,000	207,458,000
Proceeds from long-term debt	121,188,000	218,026,000	214,622,000
Principal payments on long-term debt	(164,940,000)	(154,685,000)	(112,828,000)
Principal payments on capital lease obligations	(23,479,000)	(14,506,000)	(12,531,000)
Proceeds from issuance of shares relating to employee stock options and employee stock purchases	8,260,000	3,766,000	11,962,000
Excess tax (expense) benefit from stock-based compensation	(294,000)	(337,000)	5,207,000
Common stock repurchased	(43,514,000)	(1,464,000)	(12,253,000)
Net cash provided by financing activities	(314,581,000)	82,368,000	301,637,000
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	17,179,000	(126,616,000)	(25,842,000)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year	64,847,000	191,463,000	217,305,000
Cash and cash equivalents, end of year	82,026,000	64,847,000	191,463,000
Cash paid during the year for:
Interest	37,904,000	35,356,000	29,539,000
Income taxes (refunded) paid, net	(10,939,000)	16,126,000	29,795,000
Noncash investing and financing activities:
Common stock issued related to business acquisition			2,000,000
Assets acquired under capital leases	$ 24,207,000	$ 41,021,000	$ 24,314,000

XML

Note 1 - Organization and Operations

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Notes to Financial Statements

Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block]

1.

     

ORGANIZATION AND OPERATIONS

:

Rush Enterprises, Inc. (the “Company”) was incorporated in

1965

under the laws of the State of Texas. The Company operates a network of commercial vehicle dealerships that primarily sell commercial vehicles manufactured by Peterbilt, International, Hino, Ford, Isuzu, Mitsubishi Fuso, IC Bus or Blue Bird. Through its strategically located network of Rush Truck Centers, the Company provides

one

-stop service for the needs of its commercial vehicle customers, including retail sales of new and used commercial vehicles, aftermarket parts sales, service and repair facilities, financing, leasing and rental, and insurance products.

XML

Note 2 - Significant Accounting Policies

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Notes to Financial Statements

Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block]

2.

     

SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

:

Principles of Consolidation

The consolidated financial statements presented herein include the accounts of Rush Enterprises, Inc. together with its consolidated subsidiaries. All significant inter-company balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

Estimates in Financial Statements

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results

may

differ from those estimates.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents generally consist of cash and other money market instruments. The Company considers all highly liquid investments with an original maturity of

ninety

days or less to be cash equivalents.

Allowance for Doubtful Receivables and Repossession Losses

The Company provides an allowance for doubtful receivables and repossession losses after considering historical loss experience and other factors that might affect the collection of accounts receivable and the ability of customers to meet their obligations on finance contracts sold by the Company.

Inventories

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market value. Cost is determined by specific identification of new and used commercial vehicle inventory and by the

first

-in,

first

-out method for parts and accessories. An allowance is provided when it is anticipated that cost will exceed net realizable value less a reasonable profit margin.

Property and Equipment

Property and equipment are stated at cost and depreciated over their estimated useful lives. Leasehold improvements are amortized over the useful life of the improvement, or the term of the lease, whichever is shorter. Provision for depreciation of property and equipment is calculated primarily on a straight-line basis. The Company capitalizes interest on borrowings during the active construction period of major capital projects. Capitalized interest, when incurred, is added to the cost of underlying assets and is amortized over the estimated useful life of such assets. The Company capitalized interest of approximately

$353,000

related to major capital projects during

2016.

The cost, accumulated depreciation and amortization and estimated useful lives are summarized as follows (in thousands):

	2016			2015			Estimated Life (Years)
Land	$	126,123		$	134,246			-
Buildings and improvements		377,070			313,706		10	-	39
Leasehold improvements		26,925			28,149		2	-	39
Machinery and shop equipment		67,558			59,455		5	-	20
Furniture, fixtures and computers		73,912			74,201		3	-	15
Transportation equipment		73,156			74,761		2	-	15
Lease and rental vehicles		832,661			825,787		2	-	8
Construction in progress		11,921			66,338
Accumulated depreciation and amortization		(453,521	)		(403,819	)
Total	$	1,135,805		$	1,172,824

The Company recorded depreciation expense of

$140.6

million and amortization expense of

$17.0

million for the year ended

December

31,

2016,

and depreciation expense of

$131.8

million and amortization expense of

$13.1

million for the year ended

December

31,

2015.

As of

December

31,

2016,

the Company had

$81.5

million in lease and rental vehicles under various capital leases included in property and equipment, net of accumulated amortization of

$28.7

million. The Company recorded depreciation and amortization expense of

$106.3

million related to lease and rental vehicles in lease and rental cost of products sold for the year ended

December

31,

2016

and

$101.1

million for the year ended

December

31,

2015.

Goodwill

Goodwill is the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of identifiable net assets acquired in business combinations accounted for under the purchase method. The Company tests goodwill for impairment annually during the

fourth

quarter, or when indications of potential impairment exist. These indicators would include a significant change in operating performance, or a planned sale or disposition of a significant portion of the business, among other factors. The Company tests for goodwill impairment utilizing a fair value approach at the reporting unit level. The Company has deemed its reporting unit to be the Truck Segment, as all components of the Truck Segment are similar.

The impairment test for goodwill involves comparing the fair value of a reporting unit to its carrying amount, including goodwill. If the carrying amount of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value, a

second

step is required to measure the goodwill impairment loss. The

second

step includes hypothetically valuing all the tangible and intangible assets of the reporting unit as if the reporting unit had been acquired in a business combination and comparing the hypothetical implied fair value of the reporting unit’s goodwill to the carrying amount of that goodwill. If the carrying amount of the reporting unit’s goodwill exceeds the hypothetical implied fair value of the goodwill, the Company would recognize an impairment loss in an amount equal to the excess, not to exceed the carrying amount. The Company determines the fair values calculated in an impairment test using the discounted cash flow method, which requires assumptions and estimates regarding future revenue, expenses and cash flow projections. The analysis is based upon available information regarding expected future cash flows of its reporting unit discounted at rates consistent with the cost of capital specific to the reporting unit.

No

impairment write down was required in the

fourth

quarter of

2016.

However, the Company cannot predict the occurrence of certain events that might adversely affect the reported value of goodwill in the future.

The following table sets forth the change in the carrying amount of goodwill for the Company for the years ended

December

31,

2016

and

2015

(in thousands):

Balance December 31, 2014	$	265,145
Acquisitions and adjustments		19,896
Balance December 31, 2015		285,041
Acquisitions and adjustments		5,150
Balance December 31, 2016	$	290,191

Other Assets

The total capitalized costs of the Company’s SAP enterprise software and SAP dealership management system of

$33.0

million, including capitalized interest, are recorded on the Consolidated Balance Sheet in Other Assets, net of accumulated amortization of

$16.5

million. The SAP software is being amortized over a period of

15

years.

Amortization expense relating to the SAP software, which is recognized in depreciation and amortization expense in the Consolidated Statements of Income,

was

$3.4

million

for the year ended

December

 

31,

2016

,

$3.3

million

for the year ended

December

 

31,

2015

, and

$3.2

million

for the year ended

December

 

31,

2014

. The Company estimates that amortization expense relating to the SAP software will be approximately

$3.4

million for each of the next

five

succeeding years.

The Company’s only significant identifiable intangible assets, other than goodwill, are rights under franchise agreements with manufacturers. The fair value of the franchise right is determined at the acquisition date by discounting the projected cash flows specific to each acquisition.

The carrying value of the Company’s manufacturer franchise rights was

$7.0

million at

December

31,

2016,

and

$7.9

million at

December

31,

2015,

and is included in Other Assets on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. The Company has determined that manufacturer franchise rights have an indefinite life as there are no economic or other factors that limit their useful lives and they are expected to generate cash flows indefinitely due to the historically long lives of the manufacturers’ brand names. Furthermore, to the extent that any agreements evidencing manufacturer franchise rights have expiration dates, the Company expects that it will be able to renew those agreements in the ordinary course of business. Accordingly, the Company does

not amortize manufacturer franchise rights.

Due to the fact that manufacturer franchise rights are specific to geographic region, the Company has determined that evaluating and including all locations acquired in the geographic region is the appropriate level for purposes of testing franchise rights for impairment.

Management reviews indefinite-lived manufacturer franchise rights for impairment annually during the

fourth

quarter, or more often if events or circumstances indicate that an impairment

may

have occurred. The Company is subject to financial statement risk to the extent that manufacturer franchise rights become impaired due to decreases in the fair market value of its individual franchises.

The significant estimates and assumptions used by management in assessing the recoverability of manufacturer franchise rights include estimated future cash flows, present value discount rate, and other factors. Any changes in these estimates or assumptions could result in an impairment charge. The estimates of future cash flows, based on reasonable and supportable assumptions and projections, require management’s subjective judgment. Depending on the assumptions and estimates used, the estimated future cash flows projected in the evaluations of manufacturer franchise rights can vary within a range of outcomes.

No

impairment write down was required in the

fourth

quarter of

2016.

The Company cannot predict the occurrence of certain events that might adversely affect the reported value of manufacturer franchise rights in the future.

Income Taxes

Significant management judgment is required to determine the provisions for income taxes and to determine whether deferred tax assets will be realized in full or in part. Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. When it is more likely than not that all or some portion of specific deferred income tax assets will not be realized, a valuation allowance must be established for the amount of deferred income tax assets that are determined not to be realizable. Accordingly, the facts and financial circumstances impacting state deferred income tax assets are reviewed quarterly and management’s judgment is applied to determine the amount of valuation allowance required, if any, in any given period.

In determining its provision for income taxes, the Company uses an annual effective income tax rate based on annual income, permanent differences between book and tax income, and statutory income tax rates. The effective income tax rate also reflects its assessment of the ultimate outcome of tax audits. The Company adjusts its annual effective income tax rate as additional information on outcomes or events becomes available. Discrete events such as audit settlements or changes in tax laws are recognized in the period in which they occur.

The Company’s income tax returns are periodically audited by U.S. federal, state and local tax authorities. These audits include questions regarding the Company’s tax filing positions, including the timing and amount of deductions. At any time, multiple tax years are subject to audit by the various tax authorities. In evaluating the tax benefits associated with the Company’s various tax filing positions, the Company records a tax benefit for uncertain tax positions. A number of years

may

elapse before a particular matter for which the Company has established a liability is audited and effectively settled. The Company adjusts its liability for unrecognized tax benefits in the period in which it determines the issue is effectively settled with the tax authorities, the statute of limitations expires for the relevant taxing authority to examine the tax position, or when more information becomes available. The Company includes its liability for unrecognized tax benefits, including accrued interest, in accrued liabilities on the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheet and in income tax expense in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Income. Unfavorable settlement of any particular issue would require use of the Company’s cash and a charge to income tax expense. Favorable resolution would be recognized as a reduction to income tax expense at the time of resolution.

Additionally, despite the Company’s belief that its tax return positions are consistent with applicable tax law, management expects that certain positions

may

be challenged by taxing authorities. Settlement of any challenge can result in no change, a complete disallowance, or some partial adjustment reached through negotiations. The Company records interest and penalties, if any, related to federal and state unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense.

Revenue Recognition Policies

Income on the sale of a vehicle is recognized when the Company and a customer execute a purchase contract, delivery has occurred and there are no significant uncertainties related to financing or the purchase price is paid by the customer. The Company generally sells finance contracts it enters into with customers to finance the purchase of commercial vehicles to

third

parties. These finance contracts are sold by the Company both with and without recourse. A majority of the Company’s finance contracts are sold without recourse. Finance income is recognized by the Company upon the sale of such finance contracts to the finance companies, net of a provision for estimated repossession losses and early repayment penalties.

Lease and rental income is recognized over the period of the related lease or rental agreement. Contingent rental income is recognized when it is earned. Parts and services revenue is earned at the time the Company sells the parts to its customers or at the time the Company completes, and the customer accepts, the service work order related to service provided to the customer’s vehicle.

Cost of Sales

For the Company’s new and used commercial vehicle operations and its parts operations, cost of sales consists primarily of the Company’s actual purchase price, less manufacturer’s incentives, for new and used commercial vehicles and parts. For the Company’s service and body shop operations, technician labor cost is the primary component of cost of sales. For the Company’s rental and leasing operations, cost of sales consists primarily of depreciation and amortization, rent, maintenance costs and interest expense on the lease and rental fleet owned and leased by the Company. There are no costs of sales associated with the Company’s finance and insurance revenue or other revenue.

Taxes Assessed by a Governmental Authority

The Company accounts for sales taxes assessed by a governmental authority, that are directly imposed on a revenue-producing transaction, on a net (excluded from revenues) basis.

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

Selling, general and administrative expenses consist primarily of incentive based compensation for sales, finance and general management personnel, salaries for administrative personnel and expenses for rent, marketing, insurance, utilities, research and development and other general operating purposes.

Stock Based Compensation

The Company applies the provisions of

ASC topic

718

-

10,

“Compensation – Stock Compensation,” which requires the measurement and recognition of compensation expense for all share-based payment awards made to employees and directors including grants of employee stock options, restricted stock units, restricted stock awards and employee stock purchases under the Employee Stock Purchase Plan based on estimated fair values.

The Company uses the Black-Scholes option-pricing model to estimate the fair value of share-based payment awards on the date of grant. The value of the portion of the award that is ultimately expected to vest is recognized as expense over the requisite service periods.

Compensation expense for all share-based payment awards is recognized using the straight-line single-option method. Stock-based compensation expense is recognized based on awards expected to vest. Accordingly, stock based compensation expense has been reduced for estimated forfeitures. Forfeitures are estimated at the time of grant and revised, if necessary, in subsequent periods if actual forfeitures differ from those estimates.

The Company’s determination of fair value of share-based payment awards on the date of grant using an option-pricing model is affected by the Company’s stock price as well as assumptions regarding a number of highly complex and subjective variables. These variables include the Company’s expected stock price volatility over the term of the awards and actual and projected stock option exercise behaviors. Option-pricing models were developed for use in estimating the value of traded options that have no vesting or hedging restrictions and are fully transferable. Because the Company’s stock options have characteristics that are significantly different from traded options and because changes in the subjective assumptions can materially affect the estimated value, in management’s opinion, the existing valuation models

may

not provide an accurate measure of the fair value that value

may

not be indicative of the fair value observed in a market transaction between a willing buyer and a willing seller.

The following table reflects the weighted-average fair value of stock options granted during each period using the Black-Scholes option valuation model with the following weighted-average assumptions used:

	2016			2015			2014
Expected stock volatility		35.63	%		40.90	%		51.51	%
Weighted-average stock volatility		35.63	%		40.90	%		51.51	%
Expected dividend yield		0.00	%		0.00	%		0.00	%
Risk-free interest rate		1.64	%		1.74	%		2.14	%
Expected life (years)		6.0			6.0			6.5
Weighted-average fair value of stock options granted	$	6.54		$	11.27		$	15.86

The Company computes its historical stock price volatility in accordance with ASC topic

718

-

10.

The risk-free interest rate for periods within the contractual life of the option is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant. The dividend yield assumption is based on the Company’s history and expectation of dividend payouts. The expected life of stock options represents the weighted-average period the stock options are expected to remain outstanding.

Advertising Costs

Advertising costs are expensed as incurred. Advertising and marketing expense was

$6.8

million for

2016,

$8.8

million for

2015

and

$8.7

million for

2014.

Advertising and marketing expense is included in selling, general and administrative expense.

Accounting for Internal Use Software

The Company’s accounting policy with respect to accounting for computer software developed or obtained for internal use is consistent with ASC topic

350

-

40,

which provides guidance on accounting for the costs of computer software developed or obtained for internal use and identifies characteristics of internal-use software.  The Company has capitalized software costs, including capitalized interest, of approximately

$33.0

million at

December

31,

2016,

net of accumulated amortization of

$16.5

million, and had

$36.1

million, net of accumulated amortization of

$13.4

million at

December

31,

2015.

 

Insurance

The Company is partially self-insured for a portion of the claims related to its property and casualty insurance programs. Accordingly, the Company is required to estimate expected losses to be incurred. The Company engages a

third

-party administrator to assess any open claims and the Company adjusts its accrual accordingly on an annual basis. The Company is also partially self-insured for a portion of the claims related to its worker’s compensation and medical insurance programs. The Company uses actuarial information provided from

third

-party administrators to calculate an accrual for claims incurred, but not reported, and for the remaining portion of claims that have been reported.

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities

From

2012

until

2015,

the Company utilized derivative financial instruments to manage its interest rate risk relating to the variability of cash flows and changes in the fair value of its financial instruments caused by movements in interest rates. The Company assessed hedge effectiveness at the inception and during the term of each hedge. Derivatives are reported at fair value on the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets.

At

December

31,

2016

and

December

31,

2015,

the Company did

not

have any outstanding interest rate swap contracts.

Fair Value Measurements

The Company has various financial instruments that it must measure at fair value on a recurring basis, including certain available for sale securities and derivatives. See

Note

9

– Financial Instruments and Fair Value of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, for further information. The Company also applies the provisions of fair value measurement to various nonrecurring measurements for its financial and nonfinancial assets and liabilities.

Applicable accounting standards define fair value as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date (an exit price). The Company measures its assets and liabilities using inputs from the following

three

levels of the fair value hierarchy:

Level

1

inputs are unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the Company has the ability to access at the measurement date.

Level

2

inputs include quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability (i.e., interest rates, yield curves, etc.), and inputs that are derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data by correlation or other means (market corroborated inputs).

Level

3

includes unobservable inputs that reflect the Company’s assumptions about what factors market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability. The Company develops these inputs based on the best information available, including its own data.

Acquisitions

The Company uses the acquisition method of accounting for the recognition of assets acquired and liabilities assumed with acquisitions at their estimated fair values as of the date of acquisition. Any excess consideration transferred over the estimated fair values of the identifiable net assets acquired is recorded as goodwill. While the Company uses its best estimates and assumptions to measure the fair value of the identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the acquisition date, the estimates are inherently uncertain and subject to refinement. As a result, during the measurement period, which is not to exceed

one

year from the date of acquisition, any changes in the estimated fair values of the net assets recorded for the acquisitions will result in an adjustment to goodwill. Upon the conclusion of the measurement period or final determination of the values of assets acquired or liabilities assumed, whichever comes

first,

any subsequent adjustments are recorded to the Consolidated Statements of Income.

New Accounting Pronouncements

In

March

2016,

the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No.

2016

-

09,

“

Compensation – Stock Compensation (Topic

718),

” which changes the accounting for certain aspects of share-based payments to employees. The new guidance requires excess tax benefits and tax deficiencies to be recorded in the income statement when the awards vest or are settled. In addition, cash flows related to excess tax benefits will no longer be separately classified as a financing activity apart from other income tax cash flows. The standard also allows the Company to repurchase more of an employee’s shares for tax withholding purposes without triggering liability accounting, clarifies that all cash payments made on an employee’s behalf for withheld shares should be presented as a financing activity on its cash flows statement, and provides an accounting policy election to account for forfeitures as they occur. The new standard is effective for the Company beginning

January

 

1,

2017.

The Company does not expect the adoption to materially impact its consolidated financial statements.

In

February

2016,

the FASB issued ASU No.

2016

-

02,

“

Leases (Topic

842),

” which is intended to increase the transparency and comparability among organizations by recognizing lease assets and lease liabilities on the balance sheet and disclosing key information about leasing arrangements. In order to meet that objective, the new standard requires recognition of the assets and liabilities that arise from leases. A lessee will be required to recognize on the balance sheet the assets and liabilities for leases with lease terms of more than

12

months.  Accounting by lessors will remain largely unchanged from current U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. The new standard is effective for public companies for fiscal years beginning after

December

 

15,

2018,

and interim periods within those years, with early adoption permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the effect that adopting this standard will have on our financial statements and related disclosures.

In

May

2014,

the FASB issued ASU No.

2014

-

09,

“

Revenue from Contracts with Customers

(Topic

606)

,” which amends the existing accounting standards for revenue recognition. ASU

2014

-

09

is based on principles that govern the recognition of revenue at an amount an entity expects to be entitled to when products are transferred to customers. ASU

2014

-

09

will be effective for the Company beginning in its

first

quarter of

2018,

and early adoption is permitted. The ASU provides

two

transition methods: (i) retrospectively to each prior reporting period presented or (ii) retrospectively with the cumulative effect of initially applying this ASU recognized at the date of initial application.

Subsequently, the FASB issued the following standards related to ASU

2014

-

09:

ASU No. 

2016

-

08,

“

Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic

606):

Principal versus Agent Considerations”

; ASU No.

2016

-

10,

“

Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic

606):

Identifying Performance Obligations and Licensing

”; and ASU No.

2016

-

12,

“

Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic

606):

Narrow-Scope Improvements and Practical Expedients.”

The Company will adopt ASU 2014-09 on

January

1,

2018.

In

2016,

the Company established a cross-functional team with representatives from its major revenue streams to review our current accounting policies and practices, assess the effect of the standard on our revenue contracts and identify potential differences. In addition, the Company is in the process of evaluating changes to its business processes and controls to support recognition and disclosure under the new standard. While the Company is currently assessing the impact of the new standard, its revenue is primarily generated from the sale of finished products to customers. Those sales predominantly contain a single delivery element and revenue is recognized at a single point in time when ownership, risks and benefits transfer. The timing of revenue recognition for these transactions is not expected to be significantly impacted by the new standard. The Company continues to review the impact of this standard on potential disclosure changes in its financial statements as well as which transition approach will be applied.

XML

Note 3 - Supplier Concentration

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Notes to Financial Statements

Concentration Risk Disclosure [Text Block]

3.

     

SUPPLIER CONCENTRATION

:

Major Suppliers and Dealership Agreements

The Company has entered into dealership agreements with various manufacturers of commercial vehicles and buses (“Manufacturers”). These agreements are nonexclusive agreements that allow the Company to stock, sell at retail and service commercial vehicles and sell parts from the Manufacturers in the Company’s defined market. The agreements allow the Company to use the Manufacturers’ names, trade symbols and intellectual property and expire as follows:

Manufacturer	Expiration Dates
Peterbilt	May 2017 through March 2019
International	December 2017 through March 2021
Isuzu	Indefinite
Hino	Indefinite
Ford	Indefinite
Blue Bird	July 2017
IC Bus	December 2017 through March 2021

These agreements, as well as agreements with various other Manufacturers, impose a number of restrictions and obligations on the Company, including restrictions on a change in control of the Company and the maintenance of certain required levels of working capital. Violation of these restrictions could result in the loss of the Company’s right to purchase the Manufacturers’ products and use the Manufacturers’ trademarks.

The Company purchases its new Peterbilt vehicles from Peterbilt and most of the parts sold at its Peterbilt dealerships from PACCAR, Inc., the parent company of Peterbilt, at prevailing prices charged to all franchised dealers. Sales of new Peterbilt trucks accounted for approximately

61.0%

of the Company’s new vehicle sales for the year ended

December

31,

2016,

59.6%

of the Company’s new vehicle sales for the year ended

December

 

31,

2015,

and

63.5%

of the Company’s new vehicle sales for the year ended

December

 

31,

2014.

Primary Lenders

The Company purchases its new and used commercial vehicle inventories with the assistance of floor plan financing programs as described in Note

7

to these Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. The Company’s floor plan financing agreements provide that the occurrence of certain events will be considered events of default. In the event that the Company’s floor plan financing becomes insufficient, or its relationship with any of its current primary lenders terminates, the Company would need to obtain similar financing from other sources. Management believes it can obtain additional floor plan financing or alternative financing if necessary.

The Company also acquires lease and rental vehicles with the assistance of financing agreements with PACCAR Leasing Company, Bank of America and Wells Fargo. The financing agreements are secured by a lien on the acquired vehicle. The terms of the financing agreements are similar to the corresponding lease agreements with the Company’s customers.

Concentrations of Credit Risks

Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to significant concentrations of credit risk consist principally of cash and cash equivalents and accounts receivable. The Company places its cash and cash equivalents with what it considers to be quality financial institutions based on periodic assessments of such institutions. The Company’s cash and cash equivalents

may

be uninsured or in deposit accounts that exceed the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation insurance limit.

The Company controls credit risk through credit approvals and by selling a majority of its trade receivables, other than vehicle accounts receivable, without recourse. Concentrations of credit risk with respect to trade receivables are reduced because a large number of geographically diverse customers make up the Company’s customer base; however, substantially all of the Company’s business is concentrated in the United States commercial vehicle markets and related aftermarkets.

The Company generally sells finance contracts it enters into with customers to finance the purchase of commercial vehicles to

third

parties. These finance contracts are sold by the Company both with and without recourse. A majority of the Company’s finance contracts are sold without recourse. The Company provides an allowance for doubtful receivables and a reserve for repossession losses related to finance contracts sold with recourse. Historically, the Company’s allowances and reserves have covered losses inherent in these receivables.

XML

Note 4 - Accounts Receivable

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Notes to Financial Statements

Loans, Notes, Trade and Other Receivables Disclosure [Text Block]

4.

     

ACCOUNTS

RECEIVABLE

:

The Company’s accounts receivable, net, consisted of the following (in thousands):

	December 31,
	2016			2015
Trade accounts receivable from sale of vehicles	$	83,482		$	76,601
Trade receivables other than vehicles		42,876			43,916
Warranty claims		8,095			8,261
Other accounts receivable		22,409			28,810
Less allowance for bad debt and warranty claims		(663	)		(611	)
Total	$	156,199		$	156,977

XML

Note 5 - Inventories

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Notes to Financial Statements

Inventory Disclosure [Text Block]

5.

     

INVENTORIES

:

The Company’s inventories, net, consisted of the following (in thousands):

	December 31,
	2016			2015
New commercial vehicles	$	575,879		$	770,861
Used commercial vehicles		71,429			86,960
Parts and accessories		187,419			201,868
Other		15,564			15,341
Less allowance		(9,987	)		(13,832	)
Total	$	840,304		$	1,061,198

XML

Note 6 - Valuation Accounts

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Notes to Financial Statements

Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Text Block]

6.

     

VALUATION ACCOUNTS:

Valuation and allowance accounts include the following (in thousands):

	Balance Beginning of Year		Net Charged to Costs and Expenses		Net Write- Offs			Balance End of Year
2016
Reserve for accounts receivable	$	506	$	1,415	$	(1,372	)	$	549
Reserve for warranty receivables		105		833		(824	)		114
Reserve for parts inventory		7,291		3,400		(5,806	)		4,885
Reserve for commercial vehicle inventory		6,541		9,623		(11,062	)		5,102
2015
Reserve for accounts receivable	$	639	$	992	$	(1,125	)	$	506
Reserve for warranty receivables		140		1,677		(1,712	)		105
Reserve for parts inventory		5,067		4,215		(1,991	)		7,291
Reserve for commercial vehicle inventory		10,644		8,417		(12,520	)		6,541
2014
Reserve for accounts receivable	$	821	$	919	$	(1,101	)	$	639
Reserve for warranty receivables		419		411		(690	)		140
Reserve for parts inventory		4,416		2,547		(1,896	)		5,067
Reserve for commercial vehicle inventory		7,395		7,877		(4,628	)		10,644

Allowance for Doubtful Receivables

The Company sells a majority of its customer accounts receivable on a non-recourse basis to a

third

-party that is responsible for qualifying the customer for credit at the point of sale. If the

third

-party approves the customer for credit, then the

third

-party assumes all credit risk related to the transaction. For accounts receivable that the Company does not sell or that are sold with recourse to the Company, an allowance for doubtful receivables is provided after considering historical loss experience and other factors that might affect the collection of such accounts receivable.

The Company provides an allowance for uncollectible warranty receivables. The Company evaluates the collectability of its warranty claims receivable based on a combination of factors, including aging and correspondence with the applicable manufacturer. Management reviews the warranty claims receivable aging and adjusts the allowance based on historical experience. The Company records charge-offs related to warranty receivables after it is determined that a receivable will not be fully collected.

Inventory

The Company provides a reserve for obsolete and slow moving parts. The reserve is reviewed and, if necessary, adjustments are made on a quarterly basis. The Company relies on historical information to support its reserve. Once the inventory is written down, the Company does not reverse any reserve balance until the inventory is sold.

The valuation for new and used commercial vehicle inventory is based on specific identification. A detail of new and used commercial vehicle inventory is reviewed and, if necessary, adjustments to the value of specific vehicles are made on a quarterly basis.

XML

Note 7 - Floor Plan Notes Payable and Lines of Credit

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Notes to Financial Statements

Debt Disclosure [Text Block]

7.

     

FLOOR PLAN NOTES PAYABLE AND LINES OF CREDIT

:

Floor Plan Notes Payable

Floor plan notes are financing agreements to facilitate the Company’s purchase of new and used commercial vehicle inventory. These notes are collateralized by the inventory purchased and accounts receivable arising from the sale thereof. The Company’s Floor Plan Credit Agreement provides for a loan commitment of up to

$875.0

million and has the interest rate benchmarked to LIBOR, as defined in the agreement.

The interest rate under the Company’s Floor Plan Credit Agreement is the

three

month LIBOR rate plus

1.51%.

The interest rate applicable to the Company’s Floor Plan Credit Agreement was approximately

2.44%

at

December

31,

2016.

The Company utilizes its excess cash on hand to pay down its outstanding borrowings under its Floor Plan Credit Agreement, and the resulting interest earned is recognized as an offset to the Company’s gross interest expense under the Floor Plan Credit Agreement. The Company is required to pay a monthly working capital fee equal to

0.16%

per annum multiplied by the amount of voluntary prepayments of new and used inventory loans.

The Company finances substantially all of the purchase price of its new commercial vehicle inventory, and the loan value of its used commercial vehicle inventory, under its Floor Plan Credit Agreement, under which BMO Harris pays the manufacturer directly with respect to new commercial vehicles. Amounts borrowed under the Company’s Floor Plan Credit Agreement are due when the related commercial vehicle inventory (collateral) is sold and the sales proceeds are collected by the Company. The Company’s Floor Plan Credit Agreement expires

June

30,

2019,

although BMO Harris has the right to terminate the Floor Plan Credit Agreement at any time upon

120

days’ written notice. The Company

may

terminate the Floor Plan Credit Agreement at any time, although if it does so, it must pay a prepayment processing fee equal to: (i)

2.0%

of the aggregate revolving loan commitments if such termination occurs on or before

January

1,

2018;

(ii)

1.0%

of the aggregate revolving loan commitments if such termination occurs after

January

1,

2018

and on or prior to

July

1,

2018;

and (iii)

$500,000

if such termination occurs after

July

1,

2018

and prior to

June

30,

2019,

subject to specified limited exceptions. On

December

31,

2016,

the Company had approximately

$548.1

million outstanding under its Floor Plan Credit Agreement.

In

June

2012,

the Company entered into a wholesale financing agreement with Ford Motor Credit Company that provides for the financing of, and is collateralized by, the Company’s new Ford vehicle inventory. This wholesale financing agreement bears interest at a rate of Prime plus

150

 basis points minus certain incentives and rebates; however, the prime rate is defined to be a minimum of

3.75%.

As of

December

31,

2016,

the interest rate on the wholesale financing agreement was

5.25%

before considering the applicable incentives. On

December

31,

2016,

the Company had an outstanding balance of approximately

$66.4

 million under the Ford Motor Credit Company wholesale financing agreement.

The Company’s weighted average interest rate for floor plan notes payable was

1.58%

for the year ended

December

31,

2016,

and

1.47%

for the year ended

December

31,

2015,

which is net of interest related to prepayments of new and used inventory loans.

Assets pledged as collateral were as follows (in thousands):

	December 31,
	2016		2015
Inventories, new and used vehicles at cost based on specific identification, net of allowance	$	642,205	$	851,280
Vehicle sale related accounts receivable		83,482		76,601
Total	$	725,687	$	927,881
Floor plan notes payable related to vehicles	$	646,945	$	854,758

Lines of Credit

The Company has a secured line of credit that provides for a maximum borrowing of

$17.5

million. There were

no

advances outstanding under this secured line of credit at

December

31,

2016;

however,

$12.0

million was pledged to secure various letters of credit related to self-insurance products, leaving

$5.5

million available for future borrowings as of

December

31,

2016.

XML

Note 8 - Long Term Debt

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Notes to Financial Statements

Long-term Debt [Text Block]

8.

     

LONG-TERM DEBT

:

Long-term debt was comprised of the following (in thousands):

	December 31,
	2016			2015
Variable interest rate term notes	$	107,894		$	127,508
Fixed interest rate term notes		495,326			520,247
Total debt		603,220			647,755
Less: current maturities		(130,717	)		(151,024	)
Total long-term debt, net of current maturities	$	472,503		$	496,731

As of

December

 

31,

2016,

debt maturities were as follows (in thousands):

2017		130,717
2018		125,226
2019		123,353
2020		118,913
2021		59,567
Thereafter		45,444
Total	$	603,220

The interest rates on the Company’s variable interest rate notes are based on various LIBOR benchmark rates. The interest rates on the notes range from approximately

2.3%

to

2.7%

on

December

31,

2016.

Payments on the notes range from approximately

$3,111

to

$125,833

per month, plus interest. Maturities of these notes range from

May

2017

to

June

2025.

The Company’s fixed interest rate notes had interest rates that ranged from approximately

2.75%

to

7.61%

on

December

 

31,

2016.

Payments on the notes range from

$255

to

$27,607

per month. Maturities of these notes range from

January

2017

to

October

2024.

The proceeds from the issuance of the notes were used primarily to acquire land, buildings and improvements, transportation equipment and leasing vehicles. The notes are secured by the assets acquired with the proceeds of such notes.

The Company’s long-term real estate debt agreements and floor plan financing arrangements require the Company to satisfy various financial ratios such as the debt to worth ratio, leverage ratio, the fixed charge coverage ratio and certain requirements for tangible net worth and GAAP net worth. As of

December

31,

2016,

the Company was in compliance with all debt covenants. The Company does not anticipate any breach of the covenants in the foreseeable future.

XML

Note 9 - Financial Instruments and Fair Value

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Notes to Financial Statements

Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block]

9.

     

FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND FAIR VALUE

:

The Company measures certain financial assets and liabilities at fair value on a recurring basis. Financial instruments consist primarily of cash, accounts receivable, accounts payable and floor plan notes payable. The carrying values of the Company’s financial instruments approximate fair value due either to their short-term nature or existence of variable interest rates, which approximate market rates.

Certain methods and assumptions were used by the Company in estimating the fair value of financial instruments at

December

31,

2016,

and

2015.

The carrying value of current assets and current liabilities approximates the fair value due to the short maturity of these items.

The fair value of the Company’s long-term debt is based on

secondary

market indicators. Because the Company’s debt is not quoted, estimates are based on each obligation’s characteristics, including remaining maturities, interest rate, credit rating, collateral and liquidity. Accordingly, the Company concluded the valuation measurement inputs of its long-term debt to represent, at its lowest level, current market interest rates available to the Company for similar debt and the Company’s current credit standing and has categorized such debt within Level

2

of the hierarchy framework. The carrying amount approximates fair value.

If investments are deemed to be impaired, the Company determines whether the impairment is temporary or other than temporary. If the impairment is deemed to be temporary, the Company records an unrealized loss in other comprehensive income. If the impairment is deemed other than temporary, the Company records the impairment in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Income.

In prior years, the Company invested in interest-bearing short-term investments primarily consisting of investment-grade auction rate securities classified as available-for-sale and reported at fair value. These types of investments were designed to provide liquidity through an auction process that reset the applicable interest rates at predetermined periods ranging from

1

to

35

days. This reset mechanism was intended to allow existing investors to continue to own their respective interest in the auction rate security or to gain immediate liquidity by selling their interests at par.

Auctions for investment grade securities held by the Company have failed. However, a failed auction does not represent a default by the issuer. The auction rate securities continue to pay interest in accordance with the terms of the underlying security; however, liquidity will be limited until there is a successful auction or until such time as other markets for these investments develop. The Company has the intent and ability to hold these auction rate securities until liquidity returns to the market. The Company does not believe that the lack of liquidity relating to its auction rate securities will have a material impact on its ability to fund operations.

As of

December

31,

2016,

the Company held auction rate securities with underlying tax-exempt municipal bonds that mature in

2030

and have a fair value of

$6.2

million and a cost basis of

$6.7

million. As of

December

31,

2015,

the Company held auction rate securities with underlying tax-exempt municipal bonds that mature in

2030

and have a fair value of

$6.7

million and a cost basis of

$7.2

million. The issuer redeemed

$150,000

of the auction rate securities during the

second

quarter of

2014,

$275,000

during the

second

quarter of

2015,

$250,000

during the

second

quarter of

2016,

and

$200,000

during the

third

quarter of

2016.

These bonds have credit wrap insurance and a credit rating of A by a major credit rating agency.

The Company valued the auction rate securities at

December

31,

2016

using a discounted cash flow model based on the characteristics of the individual securities, which the Company believes yields the best estimate of fair value. The

first

step in the valuation included a credit analysis of the security which considered various factors including the credit quality of the issuer, the instrument’s position within the capital structure of the issuing authority, and the composition of the authority’s assets including the effect of insurance and/or government guarantees. Next, the future cash flows of the instruments were projected based on certain assumptions regarding the auction rate market significant to the valuation including the auction rate market will remain illiquid and auctions will continue to fail causing the interest rate to be the maximum applicable rate. This assumption resulted in discounted cash flow analysis being performed through

2019,

the point at which the Company estimates the securities will be redeemed by the municipality. The projected cash flows were then discounted using the applicable yield curve plus a

225

basis point liquidity premium added to the applicable discount rate.

The Company recorded a pre-tax impairment charge of

$1.0

million on these auction rate securities in

2011

and a subsequent pre-tax increase in fair value of

$427,000

during

2014.

The Company believes that the impairment is temporary and has included the impairment in accumulated other comprehensive loss.

The table below presents disclosures about the auction rate securities measured at fair value on a recurring basis in the Company’s financial statements as follows (in thousands):

	At December 31, 2016						At December 31, 2015
	Level 1 Inputs		Level 2 Inputs		Level 3 Inputs		Level 1 Inputs		Level 2 Inputs		Level 3 Inputs
Investment in auction rate securities		-		-	$	6,231		-		-	$	6,650

	C ost Basis Amount		Gross Unrealized Loss In Accumulated OCI		Fair Value
December 31, 201 6
Investment in auction rate securities	$	6,700	$	469	$	6,231
December 31, 201 5
Investment in auction rate securities	$	7,150	$	500	$	6,650

Interest Rate Swap Agreements

In

January

2012,

the Company entered into swap agreements to hedge against the potential impact of increases in interest rates on its floating-rate debt instruments. All interest rate swap contracts expired by

July

1,

2015,

therefore, at

December

31,

2016

and

2015,

the Company did not have any interest rate swap contracts. Swap agreements that hedge exposures to changes in interest rates exposed the Company to credit risk and market risk.  

These swap contracts were designated as cash flow hedges to pay fixed rates of interest and received a floating interest rate based on LIBOR. The fixed interest rates specified in the interest rate swap contracts became effective on or about

January

1,

2012.

The Company’s interest rate swaps qualified for cash flow hedge accounting treatment. Unrealized gains or losses were recorded in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Amounts received or paid under the contracts were recognized as interest expense over the life of the contracts.

The derivative instruments described above are on the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Income (in thousands):

	Gain (Loss) Recognized in OCI on Derivatives (Effective Portion) during the Year Ended				Location of Loss	Loss Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income (Effective Portion) during the Year Ended
	December 31, 201 6		December 31, 201 5		Reclassified into Income	December 31, 201 6		December 31, 201 5
Interest rate swaps	$	−	$	235	Interest Expense	$	−	$	(55	)

Long-Lived Assets

During the

first

quarter of

2016,

the Company instituted plans to consolidate its dealership network. In

2016,

the Company recorded an impairment charge related to the value of the real estate in the affected locations in the amount of

$7.5

million. The Company also classified certain excess real estate as held for sale, which resulted in an additional impairment charge.

The fair value measurements for the Company’s long-lived assets are based on Level

3

inputs. Fair values were based on evaluations by a

third

-party real estate broker that utilized its knowledge and historical experience in real estate markets and transactions. During the

third

and

fourth

quarter of

2016,

the Company sold

four

properties with a fair value of

$6.1

million. The Company is actively marketing the remaining real estate held for sale.

The following table presents long-lived assets measured and recorded at fair value on a nonrecurring basis (in thousands):

Description	Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs December 31 , 2016		Loss D uring the Year Ended December 31, 2016
Long-lived assets held for sale	$	13,955	$	(7,481	)

For further discussion of assets held for sale, see Note

21

– Restructuring Costs of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. The loss was reported in selling, general and administrative expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income and was reported under the Truck Segment for

2016.

XML

Note 10 - Leasing Activities

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Notes to Financial Statements

Leases of Lessee Disclosure [Text Block]

10.

     

LEASING ACTIVITIES

:

Vehicle Leases as Lessee

The Company leases vehicles, as lessee, primarily over periods ranging from

one

to

ten

years under operating lease and capital lease arrangements. Generally, the Company is required to incur all operating costs and pay a minimum rental. The Company usually guarantees the residual value of vehicles under operating lease and capital lease arrangements. At

December

31,

2016,

the Company guaranteed vehicle residual values of

$0.5

million under operating lease arrangements and

$34.0

million under capital lease arrangements. Historically, the Company purchases these vehicles at the end of the lease term and recognizes a gain on the subsequent sale of the vehicle. The residual values are not reflected in the future minimum lease payments for operating leases. Vehicle lease expenses were approximately

$1.3

million for the year ended

December

 

31,

2016,

$2.4

million for the year ended

December

 

31,

2015,

and

$4.1

million for the year ended

December

31,

2014.

As discussed below, these vehicles are then subleased by the Company to customers under various agreements. Future minimum sublease rentals to be received by the Company under non-cancelable subleases, as described below, are

$75.2

million.

 Future minimum lease payments under capital and non-cancelable vehicle leases as of

December

 

31,

2016,

are as follows (in thousands):

	Capital Leases			Operating Leases
2017	$	17,029		$	819
2018		17,657			672
2019		18,264			602
2020		16,977			342
2021		10,936			342
Thereafter		11,659			190
Total minimum lease payments	$	92,522		$	2,967
Less amount representing interest		(8,029	)
Present value of net minimum capital lease payments		84,493
Less current portion		(14,449	)
Obligations under capital leases less current portion	$	70,044

Customer Vehicle Leases as Lessor

The Company leases both owned and leased vehicles to customers, through its PacLease and Idealease franchises, primarily over periods of

one

to

ten

years, under operating lease arrangements, which require a minimum rental payment and a contingent rental payment based on mileage. Rental income during the year ended

December

31,

2016,

consisted of minimum rental payments of approximately

$182.1

million and contingent rental payments of

$27.8

million. Rental income during the year ended

December

31,

2015,

consisted of minimum rental payments of approximately

$175.0

million and contingent rental payments of

$27.4

million. Rental income during the year ended

December

31,

2014,

consisted of minimum rental payments of approximately

$154.8

million and contingent rental payments of

$24.5

million. Minimum rental payments to be received for non-cancelable leases and subleases in effect at

December

 

31,

2016,

are as follows (in thousands):

2017	$	121,335
2018		103,092
2019		81,532
2020		58,660
2021		34,083
Thereafter		17,257
Total	$	415,959

As of

December

31,

2016,

the Company had

$570.1

million of lease vehicles included in property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of

$262.6

million. As of

December

31,

2015,

the Company had

$592.0

million of lease vehicles included in property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of

$233.8

million.

Other Leases - Land and Buildings

The Company leases various assets under operating leases with expiration dates ranging from

February

2017

through

May

2045.

Monthly rental payments range from approximately

$275

per month to

$46,479

per month. Rental expense was

$10.3

million for the year ended

December

 

31,

2016,

$11.8

million for the year ended

December

 

31,

2015,

and

$12.8

million for the year ended

December

 

31,

2014.

Future minimum lease payments under non-cancelable leases at

December

 

31,

2015,

are as follows (in thousands):

2017	$	8,180
2018		6,341
2019		4,639
2020		3,404
2021		1,899
Thereafter		16,336
Total	$	40,799

XML

Note 11 - Share Based Compensation and Employee Benefit Plans

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Notes to Financial Statements

Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block]

11.

          

SHARE BASED COMPENSATION

AND

EMPLOYEE BENEFIT

PLANS

:

Employee Stock Purchase Plan

The Company’s

2004

Employee Stock Purchase Plan, as amended and restated (the “Employee Stock Purchase Plan”) allows eligible employees to contribute up to

$10,625

of their base earnings every

six

months toward the semi-annual purchase of the Company’s Class A Common Stock. The employee’s purchase price is

85%

of the lesser of the closing price of the Class A Common Stock on the

first

business day or the last business day of the semi-annual offering period, as reported by The NASDAQ Global Select Market. Employees

may

purchase shares having a fair market value of up to

$25,000

(measured as of the

first

day of each semi-annual offering period) for each calendar year. On

May

17,

2016,

the Company’s shareholders approved the amendment and restatement of the Employee Stock Purchase Plan to increase the number of shares of Class A Common Stock authorized for issuance thereunder by

500,000

shares. Under the Employee Stock Purchase Plan, there are approximately

528,000

shares remaining of the

1,400,000

shares of the Company’s Class A Common Stock that have been reserved for issuance. The Company issued

137,360

shares under the Employee Stock Purchase Plan during the year ended

December

31,

2016

and

85,263

shares during the year ended

December

31,

2015.

Of the

6,180

employees eligible to participate,

1,011

elected to participate in the plan as of

December

31,

2016.

Non-Employee Director Stock Option Plan

On

May

16,

2006,

the Board of Directors and shareholders adopted the Rush Enterprises, Inc.

2006

Non-Employee Director Stock Option Plan (the “Director Plan”), reserving

1,500,000

shares of Class A Common Stock for issuance upon exercise of any awards granted under the plan. This Director Plan was Amended and Restated on

May

20,

2008

to expand the type of awards that

may

be granted under the plan to include Class A Common Stock awards. The Director Plan was also amended on

May

18,

2010

to reduce the number of shares reserved for issuance under the plan by

1,000,000

shares of Class A Common Stock.

The Director Plan is designed to attract and retain highly qualified non-employee directors. Prior to

2008,

each non-employee director received options to purchase

20,000

shares of the Company’s Class A Common Stock upon their respective date of appointment and each year on the date that they are elected or reelected by the shareholders to serve on the Board of Directors. Each option has a

ten

year term from the grant date and vested immediately. Currently, each non-employee director receives a grant of the Company’s Class A Common Stock, or up to

40%

cash, equivalent to a compensation value of

$125,000.

In

2015,

three

non-employee directors received a grant of

4,725

shares of the Company’s Class A Common Stock,

one

non-employee director received a grant of

3,780

shares of the Company’s Class A Common Stock and

$25,000

cash and

three

non-employee directors received a grant of

2,835

shares of the Company’s Class A Common Stock and

$50,000

cash, for total compensation equivalent to

$125,000

each. In

2016,

two

non-employee directors received a grant of

6,145

shares of the Company’s Class A Common Stock and

four

non-employee director received a grant of

3,687

shares of the Company’s Class A Common Stock and

$50,000

cash, for total compensation equivalent to

$125,000

each. Under the Director Plan, there are approximately

165,000

shares remaining for issuance of the

500,000

shares of the Company’s Class A Common Stock that have been reserved for issuance. The Company granted

27,038

shares of Class A Common Stock under the Director Plan during the year ended

December

31,

2016

and

26,460

shares of Class A Common Stock under the Director Plan during the year ended

December

31,

2015.

Employee Incentive Plans

In

May

2007,

the Board of Directors and shareholders adopted the Rush Enterprises, Inc.

2007

Long-Term Incentive Plan (the

“2007

Incentive Plan”). The

2007

Incentive Plan provides for the grant of stock options (which

may

be nonqualified stock options or incentive stock options for tax purposes), stock appreciation rights issued independent of or in tandem with such options (“SARs”), restricted stock awards and performance awards. The

2007

Incentive Plan replaced the Rush Enterprises, Inc. Long-Term Incentive Plan (“Incentive Plan”) effective

May

22,

2007.

The

2007

Incentive Plan was amended and restated on

May

20,

2014

to increase the number of shares available for issuance under the plan to

6,050,000

shares of Class A Common Stock and

1,450,000

shares of Class B Common Stock.

The aggregate number of shares of common stock subject to stock options or SARs that

may

be granted to any

one

participant in any year under the

2007

Incentive Plan is

100,000

 shares of Class A Common Stock or

100,000

shares of Class B Common Stock. Each option granted pursuant to the

2007

Incentive Plan has a

ten

year term from the grant date and vests in

three

equal annual installments beginning on the

third

anniversary of the grant date. The Company has

6,050,000

shares of Class A Common Stock and

1,450,000

shares of Class B Common Stock reserved for issuance upon exercise of any awards granted under the Company’s

2007

Incentive Plan. As of

December

31,

2016,

approximately

856,000

shares of Class A Common Stock and

539,000

shares of Class B Common Stock are available for issuance upon the exercise of any awards granted under the Company’s

2007

Incentive Plan. The Company issues new shares of its Class A or Class B Common Stock upon the exercise of stock options or vesting of restricted stock units.

During the year ended

December

31,

2016,

the Company granted

493,088

options to purchase Class A Common Stock and

268,890

restricted Class B Common Stock units under the

2007

Incentive Plan. During the year ended

December

31,

2015,

the Company granted

485,838

options to purchase Class A Common Stock and

259,490

restricted Class B Common Stock units under the

2007

Incentive Plan.

Valuation and Expense Information

Stock-based compensation expense related to stock options, restricted stock awards, restricted stock units and employee stock purchases was

$12.9

million for the year ended

December

31,

2016,

$12.4

million for the year ended

December

31,

2015,

and

$11.3

million for the year ended

December

31,

2014.

Cash received from options exercised and shares purchased under all share-based payment arrangements was

$6.5

million for the year ended

December

31,

2016,

$4.3

million for the year ended

December

31,

2015,

and

$12.5

million for the year ended

December

31,

2014.

A summary of the Company’s stock option activity and related information for the year ended

December

31,

2016,

follows:

						Weighted
				Weighted		Average
				Average		Remaining		Aggregate
				Exercise		Contractual		Intrinsic
Options	Shares			Price		Life (in Years)		Value
Balance of Outstanding Options at January 1, 2016		3,475,115		$	20.95
Granted		493,088			17.65
Exercised		(466,877	)		13.82
Forfeited		(11,500	)		25.55
Balance of Outstanding Options at December 31, 2016		3,489,826		$	21.42		5.86	$	36,573,365
Expected to vest after December 31, 2016		1,823,896		$	24.79		7.63	$	12,969,933
Vested and exercisable at December 31, 2016		1,608,248		$	17.48		3.80	$	23,198,547

The aggregate intrinsic value in the preceding table represents the total pretax intrinsic value, based on the weighted-average of the closing price as of

December

30,

2016,

of the Company’s Class A common of

$31.90.

The total intrinsic value of options exercised was

$4.8

million during the year ended

December

31,

2016,

$2.6

million during the year ended

December

31,

2015,

and

$18.7

million during the year ended

December

31,

2014.

A summary of the status of the number of shares underlying Company’s non-vested stock options as of

December

31,

2016,

and changes during the year ended

December

31,

2016,

is as follows:

				Weighted
				Average
	Number of			Grant Date
Non-vested Shares	Shares			Fair Value
Non-vested at January 1, 2016		1,919,873		$	12.30
Granted		493,088			6.54
Vested		(527,883	)		10.56
Forfeited		(3,500	)		9.24
Non-vested at December 31, 2016		1,881,578		$	11.28

The total fair value of vested options was

$5.6

million during the year ended

December

31,

2016,

$5.1

million during the year ended

December

31,

2015,

and

$3.3

million during the year ended

December

31,

2014.

The weighted-average grant date fair value of options granted was

$6.54

per share during the year ended

December

31,

2016,

$11.27

per share during the year ended

December

31,

2015,

and

$15.86

per share during the year ended

December

31,

2014.

Stock Awards

The Company granted restricted stock units to certain of its employees under the

2007

Incentive Plan and unrestricted stock awards to its non-employee directors under the Director Plan during the year ended

December

31,

2016.

The restricted stock units granted to employees vest in

three

equal installments on the

first,

second

and

third

anniversary of the grant date and are forfeited in the event the recipient’s employment or relationship with the Company is terminated prior to vesting. The fair value of the restricted stock units to the Company’s employees is amortized to expense on a straight-line basis over the restricted stock’s vesting period. The shares granted to non-employee directors are expensed on the grant date.

The following table presents a summary of the Company’s non-vested restricted stock units outstanding at

December

 

31,

2016:

				Weighted
				Average				Weighted
				Remaining		Aggregate		Average
				Contractual		Intrinsic		Grant Date
Stock Awards and Units	Shares			Life (in Years)		Value		Fair Value
Outstanding Non-vested shares at January 1, 2016		483,335						$	24.73
Granted		268,890							17.57
Vested		(233,052	)						24.32
Forfeited		−							−
Outstanding Non-vested at December 31, 2016		519,173			8.6	$	16,561,618	$	21.21
Expected to vest after December 31, 2016		516,649			8.6	$	16,481,103

The total fair value of the shares issued upon the vesting of stock awards during the year ended

December

31,

2016

was

$5.7

million. The weighted-average grant date fair value of stock awards and units granted was

$17.57

per share during the year ended

December

31,

2016,

$24.75

per share during the year ended

December

31,

2015,

and

$26.81

per share during the year ended

December

31,

2014.

As of

December

31,

2016,

there was

$13.3

million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested share-based compensation arrangements granted under the Incentive Plan and the

2007

Incentive Plan. That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of

2.2

years.

Defined Contribution Plan

The Company has a defined contribution plan (the “Rush

401k

Plan”), which is available to all Company employees and the employees of certain affiliates. Each employee who has completed

90

days of continuous service is entitled to enter the Rush

401k

Plan on the

first

day of the following month. Participating employees

may

contribute from

1%

to

50%

of total gross compensation. However, certain highly compensated employees are limited to a maximum contribution of

15%

of total gross compensation. Effective

February

1,

2012,

for the

first

10%

of an employee’s contribution, the Company contributed an amount equal to

20%

of the employees’ contributions for those employees with less than

five

years of service and an amount equal to

40%

of the employees’ contributions for those employees with more than

five

years of service. The Company incurred expenses related to the Rush

401k

Plan of approximately

$6.5

million during the year ended

December

31,

2016,

$6.2

million during the year ended

December

31,

2015,

and

$5.2

million during the year ended

December

 

31,

2014.

Deferred Compensation Plan

On

November

6,

2010

the Board of Directors of the Company adopted the Rush Enterprises, Inc. Deferred Compensation Plan (the “Deferred Compensation Plan”) pursuant to which selected employees and directors

may

elect to defer a portion of their annual compensation. The Deferred Compensation Plan also provides the Company with the discretion to make matching contributions to participants’ accounts. The Company established a rabbi trust to finance obligations under the Deferred Compensation Plan with corporate-owned variable life insurance contracts. Participants are

100%

vested in their respective deferrals and the earnings thereon. The

first

deferral election period began on

January

1,

2011.

The Company’s liability related to the Deferred Compensation Plan was

$7.2

million on

December

31,

2016

and

$4.9

million on

December

31,

2015.

The related cash surrender value of the life insurance contracts was

$6.8

million on

December

31,

2016

and

$4.8

million on

December

31,

2015.

The Company currently does not provide any post-retirement benefits nor does it provide any post-employment benefits.

XML

Note 12 - Earnings Per Share

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Notes to Financial Statements

Earnings Per Share [Text Block]

12.

     

EARNINGS PER SHARE

:

Basic earnings per share (“EPS”) were computed by dividing income from continuing operations by the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the period. Diluted EPS differs from basic EPS due to the assumed conversions of potentially dilutive options and restricted shares that were outstanding during the period.

Each share of Class A Common Stock ranks equal to each share of Class B Common Stock with respect to receipt of any dividends or distributions declared on shares of common stock and the right to receive proceeds on liquidation or dissolution of us after payment of our indebtedness and liquidation preference payments to holders of any preferred shares. However, holders of Class A Common Stock have

1/20th

of

one

vote per share on all matters requiring a shareholder vote, while holders of Class B Common Stock have

one

full vote per share.

The following is a reconciliation of the numerators and the denominators of the basic and diluted per share computations for income from continuing operations (in thousands, except per share amounts):

	2016		2015		2014
Numerator-
Numerator for basic and diluted earnings per share -
Net income available to common shareholders	$	40,582	$	66,053	$	79,957
Denominator-
Denominator for basic earnings per share – weighted average shares		39,938		40,271		39,783
Effect of dilutive securities-
Employee and director stock options and restricted share awards		665		822		1,111
Denominator for diluted earnings per share - adjusted weighted average shares and assumed conversions		40,603		41,093		40,894
Basic earnings per common share	$	1.02	$	1.64	$	2.01
Diluted earnings per common share and common share equivalents	$	1.00	$	1.61	$	1.96

Options to purchase shares of common stock that were outstanding for the years ended

December

 

31,

2016,

2015

and

2014

that were not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share because the effect would have been anti-dilutive are as follows (in thousands):

	2016		2015		2014
Anti-dilutive options – weighted average		2,043		1,186		482

XML

Note 13 - Income Taxes

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Notes to Financial Statements

Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block]

13.

     

INCOME TAXES

:

Provision for Income Taxes

The tax provisions are summarized as follows (in thousands):

	Year Ended December 31,
	2016		2015		2014
Current provision-
Federal	$	15,236	$	7,513	$	21,826
State		2,300		2,592		3,531
		17,536		10,105		25,357
Deferred provision-
Federal		8,260		29,561		23,243
State		71		2,084		1,986
		8,331		31,645		25,229
Provision (benefit) for income taxes	$	25,867	$	41,750	$	50,586

A reconciliation of taxes based on the federal statutory rates and the provisions (benefits) for income taxes are summarized as follows (in thousands):

	Year Ended December 31,
	2016		2015		2014
Income taxes at the federal statutory rate	$	23,255	$	37,733	$	45,691
State income taxes, net of federal benefit		1,552		3,053		3,398
Tax effect of permanent differences		887		959		1,069
Other, net		173		5		428
Provision for income taxes	$	25,867	$	41,750	$	50,586

The components of income taxes recorded in other comprehensive income and paid in capital consisted of the following (in thousands):

	Year Ended December 31,
	2016		2015		2014
Income tax expense (benefit) related to components of other comprehensive income:
Change in fair value of cash flow swaps	$	−	$	92	$	308
Change in fair value of available-for-sale securities		13		7		166
Total	$	13	$	99	$	474
Paid in capital – stock based compensation	$	294	$	337	$	(5,207	)

The following summarizes the components of net deferred income tax liabilities included in the balance sheet (in thousands):

	December 31,
	2016			2015
Deferred income tax (assets) liabilities:
Inventory	$	(5,074	)	$	(6,039	)
Accounts receivable		(203	)		(187	)
Capital lease obligations		(31,263	)		(30,993	)
Stock options		(11,655	)		(10,719	)
Accrued liabilities		(3,610	)		(3,685	)
State net operating loss carry forward		(1,921	)		(1,570	)
State tax credit		(380	)		(382	)
Other		(5,170	)		(2,606	)
Difference between book and tax basis- Depreciation and amortization		256,352			244,716
		197,076			188,535
Valuation allowance		255			452
Net deferred income tax liability	$	197,331		$	188,987

At

December

31,

2016,

the Company had approximately

$44.6

million in state net operating loss carry forwards that expire from

2016

through

2036.

The Company has a valuation allowance of

$255,000

associated with state net operating losses. The valuation allowance decreased by

$197,000

due to uncertainty regarding the ability to utilize the losses.

The Company had unrecognized income tax benefits totaling

$2.4

million as a component of accrued liabilities at

December

31,

2016,

and

$2.3

million at

December

31,

2015,

the total of which, if recognized, would impact the Company’s effective tax rate. An unfavorable settlement would require a charge to income tax expense and a favorable resolution would be recognized as a reduction to income tax expense. The Company recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense. During the years ended

December

31,

2016,

2015

and

2014,

the Company recognized approximately

$34,800,

$11,600,

and

$17,500

in interest. No amounts were accrued for penalties. The Company had approximately

$145,000,

$110,100

and

$98,500

for the payment of interest accrued at

December

31,

2016,

2015

and

2014,

respectively.

The Company does not anticipate a significant change in the amount of unrecognized tax benefits in the next

12

months. As of

December

31,

2016,

the tax years ended

December

31,

2013

through

2016

remained subject to audit by federal tax authorities and the tax years ended

December

31,

2012

through

2016,

remained subject to audit by state tax authorities.

A reconciliation of the change in the unrecognized tax benefits is as follows (in thousands):

	2016			2015			2014
Unrecognized tax benefits at beginning of period	$	2,332		$	2,087		$	1,545
Gross increases – tax positions in current year		429			692			815
Gross increases – tax positions in a prior year					−			−
Reductions due to lapse of statute of limitations		(360	)		(447	)		(273	)
Unrecognized tax benefits at end of period	$	2,401		$	2,332		$	2,087

XML

Note 14 - Commitments and Contingencies

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Notes to Financial Statements

Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block]

14.

     

COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

:

From time to time, the Company is involved in litigation arising out of its operations in the ordinary course of business. The Company maintains liability insurance, including product liability coverage, in amounts deemed adequate by management. To date, aggregate costs to the Company for claims, including product liability actions, have not been material. However, an uninsured or partially insured claim, or claim for which indemnification is not available, could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition or results of operations. The Company believes that there are no claims or litigation pending, the outcome of which could have a material adverse effect on its financial position or results of operations. However, due to the inherent uncertainty of litigation, there can be no assurance that the resolution of any particular claim or proceeding would not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition or results of operations for the fiscal period in which such resolution occurred.

The Company has purchase obligations of approximately

$8.1

million at

December

 

31,

2016

related to the Company’s construction contracts for a facility in Houston, Texas and a real estate purchase agreement for Las Vegas, Nevada. The Company also has contractual obligations of

$14.9

million with IBM for management services related to the Company’s SAP enterprise software and dealership management system and SAP America, Inc. with respect to the Software License Agreement for the SAP enterprise software and dealership management system.

XML

Note 15 - Acquisitions

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Notes to Financial Statements

Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block]

15.

     

ACQUISITIONS

:

All of the following acquisitions, unless otherwise noted, were considered business combinations accounted for under ASC

805

“Business Combinations.” Pro forma information is not included in accordance with ASC

805

since no acquisitions were considered material individually or in the aggregate.

On

May

27,

2016,

we acquired certain assets of Transwest Truck Center Las Vegas, LLC, which included a Ford truck franchise in Las Vegas, Nevada

. The transaction was valued at approximately

$0.8

million, with the purchase price paid in cash.

On

September

28,

2015,

in connection with the divestiture of the Company’s Peterbilt dealership in Charlotte, North Carolina, the Company acquired certain assets of Peterbilt of Las Vegas, Inc., which operated a commercial vehicle dealership in Las Vegas, Nevada.  This location is operating as a Rush Truck Center and is a full-service Peterbilt dealership. The acquisition also included a PacLease commercial vehicle rental and leasing business.  The dealership swap was a like-kind exchange for tax purposes and enabled the Company to be consistent with its strategy of not having dealerships representing multiple Class

8

manufacturers in the same market as the Company continues to operate a facility representing International, Hino and Isuzu trucks in Charlotte. The sale price for the assets in Charlotte, North Carolina was approximately

$6.4

million, which was offset by floor plan and accounts payable of

$5.9

million.

The purchase price for the assets in Las Vegas, Nevada was approximately

$3.4

million, which was paid in cash. The operations of Peterbilt of Las Vegas, Inc. are included in the accompanying consolidated financial statements from the date of the acquisition. The purchase price was allocated based on the fair values of the assets at the date of acquisition as follows (in thousands):

Property, equipment and capital lease assets	$	17,241
Inventory		3,662
Prepaid expenses		295
Other		37
Accrued expenses		(960	)
Capital lease obligations		(16,925	)
Total	$	3,350

On

July

27,

2015,

the Company acquired certain assets of Dallas Truck Center, Inc., which included real estate and used truck inventory, in Dallas, Texas

. This location is operating as Rig Tough Used Trucks, Dallas. The transaction was valued at approximately

$3.3

million, with the purchase price paid in cash.

Property	$	2,308
Inventory		949
Total	$	3,257

On

May

4,

2015,

the Company acquired certain assets of Yancey Truck Centers, LLC, which operated commercial vehicle dealerships in Albany, Blackshear, Tifton, Valdosta, Augusta, Columbus and Macon, Georgia.  Certain of these locations are operating as Rush Truck Centers and offer commercial vehicle sales, parts and service for International trucks.  The acquisition also included an Idealease commercial vehicle rental and leasing business. 

The purchase price for the assets, goodwill, franchise rights and dealership properties was approximately

$30.1

million, which was paid in cash. The operations of Yancey Truck Centers, LLC are included in the accompanying consolidated financial statements from the date of the acquisition. The purchase price was allocated based on the fair values of the assets at the date of acquisition as follows (in thousands):

Goodwill	$	11,670
Property and equipment		11,316
Inventory		7,206
Other		85
Accrued expenses		(220	)
Total	$	30,057

All of the goodwill acquired in the Yancey Truck Centers, LLC

acquisition will be amortized over

15

years for tax purposes.

On

February

9,

2015,

the Company acquired certain assets of Effingham Truck Sales, Inc. The acquisition included International commercial truck dealerships and an Idealease commercial vehicle rental and leasing business in Effingham and Mount Vernon, Illinois.

The purchase price for the assets, membership interests, goodwill, and dealership properties was approximately

$25.3

million, which was paid in cash. The operations of Effingham Truck Sales, Inc. are included in the accompanying consolidated financial statements from the date of the acquisition. The purchase price was allocated based on the fair values of the assets at the date of acquisition as follows (in thousands):

Goodwill	$	9,159
Inventory		7,622
Property and equipment		7,090
Accounts receivable		1,306
Prepaid expenses		80
Other		4
Total	$	25,261

All of the goodwill acquired in the Effingham Truck Sales, Inc.

acquisition will be amortized over

15

years for tax purposes.

XML

Note 16 - Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Notes to Financial Statements

Comprehensive Income (Loss) Note [Text Block]

16.

     

ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

:

The following table shows the components of accumulated other comprehensive loss (in thousands):

	Cash Flow Swaps			Available for Sale Securities			Total
Balance as of December 31, 2014	$	(143	)	$	(317	)	$	(460	)
Changes in fair value		235			19			254
Income tax expense		(92	)		(7	)		(99	)
Balance as of December 31, 2015	$	−		$	(305	)	$	(305	)
Reclassification of gain into income		−			32			32
Income tax expense		−			(13	)		(13	)
Balance as of December 31, 2016	$	−		$	(286	)	$	(286	)

The following table shows the amount of loss reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss into earnings (in thousands):

	Year Ended
	December 31, 2016		December 31, 2015			December 31, 2014
Losses on cash flow swaps to:
Interest expense	$	−	$	(55	)	$	(196	)
Income tax benefit		−		21			76
Total reclassifications	$	−	$	(34	)	$	(120	)

XML

Note 17 - Unaudited Quarterly Financial Data

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Notes to Financial Statements

Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block]

17.

    

UNAUDITED QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA

:

(In thousands, except per share amounts.)

	First		Second		Third		Fourth
	Quarter		Quarter		Quarter		Quarter
201 6
Revenues	$	1,070,840	$	1,026,462	$	1,096,041	$	1,021,271
Gross profit		183,270		180,478		181,316		172,948
Operating income		8,181		21,572		27,588		23,387
Income before income taxes		3,942		17,809		24,303		20,395
Net income	$	2,395	$	10,817	$	14,880	$	12,490
Earnings per share:
Basic	$	0.06	$	0.27	$	0.38	$	0.32
Diluted	$	0.06	$	0.27	$	0.37	$	0.31
2015
Revenues	$	1,193,535	$	917,878	$	1,294,076	$	1,161,819
Gross profit		193,622		207,633		208,008		175,684
Operating income		30,329		35,560		36,030		19,357
Income before income taxes		27,388		31,962		32,462		15,991
Net income	$	16,781	$	19,576	$	19,883	$	9,813
Earnings per share:
Basic	$	0.42	$	0.49	$	0.49	$	0.24
Diluted	$	0.41	$	0.48	$	0.48	$	0.24

XML

Note 18 - Segments

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Notes to Financial Statements

Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block]

18.

    

SEGMENTS

:

The Company currently has

one

reportable business segment - the Truck Segment. The Truck Segment includes the Company’s operation of a nationwide network of commercial vehicle dealerships that provide an integrated

one

-stop source for the commercial vehicle needs of its customers, including retail sales of new and used commercial vehicles; aftermarket parts, service and body shop facilities; and a wide array of financial services, including the financing of new and used commercial vehicle purchases, insurance products and truck leasing and rentals. The commercial vehicle dealerships are deemed a single reporting unit because they have similar economic characteristics. The Company’s chief operating decision maker considers the entire Truck Segment, not individual dealerships or departments within our dealerships, when making decisions about resources to be allocated to the segment and assessing its performance.

The Company also has revenues attributable to

three

other operating segments. These segments include a retail tire company, an insurance agency and a guest ranch operation and are included in the All Other column below. None of these segments has ever met any of the quantitative thresholds for determining reportable segments.

The accounting policies of the segments are the same as those described in the summary of significant accounting policies. The Company evaluates performance based on income before income taxes, not including extraordinary items.

The Company accounts for intersegment sales and transfers as if the sales or transfers were to

third

parties, that is, at current market prices. There were no material intersegment sales during the years ended

December

31,

2016,

2015

or

2014.

The following table contains summarized information about reportable segment revenue, segment income or loss from continuing operations and segment assets for the periods ended

December

31,

2016,

2015

and

2014

(in thousands):

	Truck		All
	Segment		Other			Totals
201 6
Revenues from external customers	$	4,199,348	$	15,266		$	4,214,614
Interest income		621		–			621
Interest expense		14,740		160			14,900
Depreciation and amortization		50,771		490			51,261
Segment operating income		81,483		(756	)		80,728
Segment income (loss) from continuing operations before taxes		67,364		(915	)		66,449
Segment assets		2,570,016		33,031			2,603,047
Goodwill		287,631		2,560			290,191
Expenditures for segment assets		196,704		261			196,965
201 5
Revenues from external customers	$	4,964,642	$	15,091		$	4,979,733
Interest income		490		–			490
Interest expense		13,814		149			13,963
Depreciation and amortization		43,355		504			43,859
Segment operating income		122,907		(1,631	)		121,276
Segment income (loss) from continuing operations before taxes		109,583		(1,780	)		107,803
Segment assets		2,818,255		33,753			2,852,008
Goodwill		282,481		2,560			285,041
Expenditures for segment assets		367,482		308			367,790
201 4
Revenues from external customers	$	4,708,978	$	18,378		$	4,727,356
Interest income		239		–			239
Interest expense		11,278		159			11,437
Depreciation and amortization		40,283		503			40,786
Segment operating income		142,074		(333	)		141,741
Segment income (loss) from continuing operations before taxes		131,035		(492	)		130,543
Segment assets		2,646,018		29,857			2,675,875
Goodwill		262,585		2,560			265,145
Expenditures for segment assets		262,613		510			263,123

XML

Note 19 - Asset Impairment

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Notes to Financial Statements

Asset Impairment Charges [Text Block]

19.

    

ASSET IMPAIRMENT

:

During the

fourth

quarter of

2014,

the Company initiated a plan to sell its corporate aircraft and met all of the initial criteria of ASC

360,

“Property, Plant and Equipment” to classify the corporate asset as an asset held for sale.  It was determined that the carrying value of the corporate aircraft was no longer recoverable, and the Company recognized a

$3.4

million in pre-tax non-cash asset impairment charge during the

twelve

months ended

December

31,

2014.

  As a result, the Company adjusted the carrying value of its corporate aircraft to its estimated fair market value less costs to sell in accordance with ASC

820,

“Fair Value Measurement.”  The impairment loss is included in depreciation and amortization expense as of

December

31,

2014,

on the Consolidated Statements of Income. This aircraft was sold in connection with the purchase of a replacement aircraft in

2015

and no additional loss was incurred.

XML

Note 20 - Related Party Transactions

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Notes to Financial Statements

Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block]

20.

    

RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

:

During the year ended

December

31,

2014,

the Company entered into a loan agreement with CCTTS, a related party, that provides for advances up to

$16.0

million to finance commercial vehicle inventory. Borrowings under this loan agreement bear interest at the

three

month LIBOR rate plus

4.0%

and the interest is payable monthly. Amounts advanced under the loan agreement are due when the related commercial vehicle inventory is sold by the related party. The Company had a

$10.2

million receivable under the loan agreement at

December

31,

2016

and

$10.6

million at

December

31,

2015.

XML

Note 21 - Restructuring Costs

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Notes to Financial Statements

Restructuring and Related Activities Disclosure [Text Block]

21.

    

RESTRUCTURING COSTS

:

During the

first

quarter of

2016,

the Company instituted plans to consolidate its dealership network. The Company incurred pre-tax expense of approximately

$9.0

million related to costs associated with the restructuring activities, including asset impairment charges.

The restructuring costs included

$3.2

million associated with impairment charges to certain fixed assets and the value of the real estate underlying the affected locations, which was reported in selling, general and administrative expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income. See Note

9

– Financial Instruments and Fair Value, for further discussion on the impairment charge related to the value of real estate in the affected locations. The restructuring costs also included

$0.7

million associated with severance benefits for the reduction of approximately

100

employees, lease cancellation fees and contract termination costs that were reported as selling, general and administrative expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income.

In addition, the Company classified certain excess real estate as held for sale, which resulted in an impairment charge of

$5.0

million that was reported in selling, general and administrative expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income for

2016.

During the

third

and

fourth

quarters of

2016,

the Company sold

four

of the properties with a fair value of

$6.1

million. As of

December

31,

2016,

the remaining real estate associated with the dealership consolidation and owned by the Company and the Company’s excess real estate is included in assets held for sale on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

The restructuring costs and the assets held for sale are reported under the Truck Segment.

XML

Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Accounting Policies [Abstract]

Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Principles of Consolidation

The consolidated financial statements presented herein include the accounts of Rush Enterprises, Inc. together with its consolidated subsidiaries. All significant inter-company balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Estimates in Financial Statements

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results

may

differ from those estimates.

Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents generally consist of cash and other money market instruments. The Company considers all highly liquid investments with an original maturity of

ninety

days or less to be cash equivalents.

Loans and Leases Receivable, Allowance for Loan Losses Policy [Policy Text Block]

Allowance for Doubtful Receivables and Repossession Losses

The Company provides an allowance for doubtful receivables and repossession losses after considering historical loss experience and other factors that might affect the collection of accounts receivable and the ability of customers to meet their obligations on finance contracts sold by the Company.

Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Inventories

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market value. Cost is determined by specific identification of new and used commercial vehicle inventory and by the

first

-in,

first

-out method for parts and accessories. An allowance is provided when it is anticipated that cost will exceed net realizable value less a reasonable profit margin.

Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Property and Equipment

Property and equipment are stated at cost and depreciated over their estimated useful lives. Leasehold improvements are amortized over the useful life of the improvement, or the term of the lease, whichever is shorter. Provision for depreciation of property and equipment is calculated primarily on a straight-line basis. The Company capitalizes interest on borrowings during the active construction period of major capital projects. Capitalized interest, when incurred, is added to the cost of underlying assets and is amortized over the estimated useful life of such assets. The Company capitalized interest of approximately

$353,000

related to major capital projects during

2016.

The cost, accumulated depreciation and amortization and estimated useful lives are summarized as follows (in thousands):

	2016			2015			Estimated Life (Years)
Land	$	126,123		$	134,246			-
Buildings and improvements		377,070			313,706		10	-	39
Leasehold improvements		26,925			28,149		2	-	39
Machinery and shop equipment		67,558			59,455		5	-	20
Furniture, fixtures and computers		73,912			74,201		3	-	15
Transportation equipment		73,156			74,761		2	-	15
Lease and rental vehicles		832,661			825,787		2	-	8
Construction in progress		11,921			66,338
Accumulated depreciation and amortization		(453,521	)		(403,819	)
Total	$	1,135,805		$	1,172,824

The Company recorded depreciation expense of

$140.6

million and amortization expense of

$17.0

million for the year ended

December

31,

2016,

and depreciation expense of

$131.8

million and amortization expense of

$13.1

million for the year ended

December

31,

2015.

As of

December

31,

2016,

the Company had

$81.5

million in lease and rental vehicles under various capital leases included in property and equipment, net of accumulated amortization of

$28.7

million. The Company recorded depreciation and amortization expense of

$106.3

million related to lease and rental vehicles in lease and rental cost of products sold for the year ended

December

31,

2016

and

$101.1

million for the year ended

December

31,

2015.

Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Goodwill

Goodwill is the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of identifiable net assets acquired in business combinations accounted for under the purchase method. The Company tests goodwill for impairment annually during the

fourth

quarter, or when indications of potential impairment exist. These indicators would include a significant change in operating performance, or a planned sale or disposition of a significant portion of the business, among other factors. The Company tests for goodwill impairment utilizing a fair value approach at the reporting unit level. The Company has deemed its reporting unit to be the Truck Segment, as all components of the Truck Segment are similar.

The impairment test for goodwill involves comparing the fair value of a reporting unit to its carrying amount, including goodwill. If the carrying amount of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value, a

second

step is required to measure the goodwill impairment loss. The

second

step includes hypothetically valuing all the tangible and intangible assets of the reporting unit as if the reporting unit had been acquired in a business combination and comparing the hypothetical implied fair value of the reporting unit’s goodwill to the carrying amount of that goodwill. If the carrying amount of the reporting unit’s goodwill exceeds the hypothetical implied fair value of the goodwill, the Company would recognize an impairment loss in an amount equal to the excess, not to exceed the carrying amount. The Company determines the fair values calculated in an impairment test using the discounted cash flow method, which requires assumptions and estimates regarding future revenue, expenses and cash flow projections. The analysis is based upon available information regarding expected future cash flows of its reporting unit discounted at rates consistent with the cost of capital specific to the reporting unit.

No

impairment write down was required in the

fourth

quarter of

2016.

However, the Company cannot predict the occurrence of certain events that might adversely affect the reported value of goodwill in the future.

The following table sets forth the change in the carrying amount of goodwill for the Company for the years ended

December

31,

2016

and

2015

(in thousands):

Balance December 31, 2014	$	265,145
Acquisitions and adjustments		19,896
Balance December 31, 2015		285,041
Acquisitions and adjustments		5,150
Balance December 31, 2016	$	290,191

Intangible Assets, Finite-Lived, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Other Assets

The total capitalized costs of the Company’s SAP enterprise software and SAP dealership management system of

$33.0

million, including capitalized interest, are recorded on the Consolidated Balance Sheet in Other Assets, net of accumulated amortization of

$16.5

million. The SAP software is being amortized over a period of

15

years.

Amortization expense relating to the SAP software, which is recognized in depreciation and amortization expense in the Consolidated Statements of Income,

was

$3.4

million

for the year ended

December

 

31,

2016

,

$3.3

million

for the year ended

December

 

31,

2015

, and

$3.2

million

for the year ended

December

 

31,

2014

. The Company estimates that amortization expense relating to the SAP software will be approximately

$3.4

million for each of the next

five

succeeding years.

The Company’s only significant identifiable intangible assets, other than goodwill, are rights under franchise agreements with manufacturers. The fair value of the franchise right is determined at the acquisition date by discounting the projected cash flows specific to each acquisition.

The carrying value of the Company’s manufacturer franchise rights was

$7.0

million at

December

31,

2016,

and

$7.9

million at

December

31,

2015,

and is included in Other Assets on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. The Company has determined that manufacturer franchise rights have an indefinite life as there are no economic or other factors that limit their useful lives and they are expected to generate cash flows indefinitely due to the historically long lives of the manufacturers’ brand names. Furthermore, to the extent that any agreements evidencing manufacturer franchise rights have expiration dates, the Company expects that it will be able to renew those agreements in the ordinary course of business. Accordingly, the Company does

not amortize manufacturer franchise rights.

Due to the fact that manufacturer franchise rights are specific to geographic region, the Company has determined that evaluating and including all locations acquired in the geographic region is the appropriate level for purposes of testing franchise rights for impairment.

Management reviews indefinite-lived manufacturer franchise rights for impairment annually during the

fourth

quarter, or more often if events or circumstances indicate that an impairment

may

have occurred. The Company is subject to financial statement risk to the extent that manufacturer franchise rights become impaired due to decreases in the fair market value of its individual franchises.

The significant estimates and assumptions used by management in assessing the recoverability of manufacturer franchise rights include estimated future cash flows, present value discount rate, and other factors. Any changes in these estimates or assumptions could result in an impairment charge. The estimates of future cash flows, based on reasonable and supportable assumptions and projections, require management’s subjective judgment. Depending on the assumptions and estimates used, the estimated future cash flows projected in the evaluations of manufacturer franchise rights can vary within a range of outcomes.

No

impairment write down was required in the

fourth

quarter of

2016.

The Company cannot predict the occurrence of certain events that might adversely affect the reported value of manufacturer franchise rights in the future.

Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Income Taxes

Significant management judgment is required to determine the provisions for income taxes and to determine whether deferred tax assets will be realized in full or in part. Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. When it is more likely than not that all or some portion of specific deferred income tax assets will not be realized, a valuation allowance must be established for the amount of deferred income tax assets that are determined not to be realizable. Accordingly, the facts and financial circumstances impacting state deferred income tax assets are reviewed quarterly and management’s judgment is applied to determine the amount of valuation allowance required, if any, in any given period.

In determining its provision for income taxes, the Company uses an annual effective income tax rate based on annual income, permanent differences between book and tax income, and statutory income tax rates. The effective income tax rate also reflects its assessment of the ultimate outcome of tax audits. The Company adjusts its annual effective income tax rate as additional information on outcomes or events becomes available. Discrete events such as audit settlements or changes in tax laws are recognized in the period in which they occur.

The Company’s income tax returns are periodically audited by U.S. federal, state and local tax authorities. These audits include questions regarding the Company’s tax filing positions, including the timing and amount of deductions. At any time, multiple tax years are subject to audit by the various tax authorities. In evaluating the tax benefits associated with the Company’s various tax filing positions, the Company records a tax benefit for uncertain tax positions. A number of years

may

elapse before a particular matter for which the Company has established a liability is audited and effectively settled. The Company adjusts its liability for unrecognized tax benefits in the period in which it determines the issue is effectively settled with the tax authorities, the statute of limitations expires for the relevant taxing authority to examine the tax position, or when more information becomes available. The Company includes its liability for unrecognized tax benefits, including accrued interest, in accrued liabilities on the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheet and in income tax expense in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Income. Unfavorable settlement of any particular issue would require use of the Company’s cash and a charge to income tax expense. Favorable resolution would be recognized as a reduction to income tax expense at the time of resolution.

Additionally, despite the Company’s belief that its tax return positions are consistent with applicable tax law, management expects that certain positions

may

be challenged by taxing authorities. Settlement of any challenge can result in no change, a complete disallowance, or some partial adjustment reached through negotiations. The Company records interest and penalties, if any, related to federal and state unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense.

Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Revenue Recognition Policies

Income on the sale of a vehicle is recognized when the Company and a customer execute a purchase contract, delivery has occurred and there are no significant uncertainties related to financing or the purchase price is paid by the customer. The Company generally sells finance contracts it enters into with customers to finance the purchase of commercial vehicles to

third

parties. These finance contracts are sold by the Company both with and without recourse. A majority of the Company’s finance contracts are sold without recourse. Finance income is recognized by the Company upon the sale of such finance contracts to the finance companies, net of a provision for estimated repossession losses and early repayment penalties.

Lease and rental income is recognized over the period of the related lease or rental agreement. Contingent rental income is recognized when it is earned. Parts and services revenue is earned at the time the Company sells the parts to its customers or at the time the Company completes, and the customer accepts, the service work order related to service provided to the customer’s vehicle.

Cost of Sales, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Cost of Sales

For the Company’s new and used commercial vehicle operations and its parts operations, cost of sales consists primarily of the Company’s actual purchase price, less manufacturer’s incentives, for new and used commercial vehicles and parts. For the Company’s service and body shop operations, technician labor cost is the primary component of cost of sales. For the Company’s rental and leasing operations, cost of sales consists primarily of depreciation and amortization, rent, maintenance costs and interest expense on the lease and rental fleet owned and leased by the Company. There are no costs of sales associated with the Company’s finance and insurance revenue or other revenue.

Sales Taxes, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Taxes Assessed by a Governmental Authority

The Company accounts for sales taxes assessed by a governmental authority, that are directly imposed on a revenue-producing transaction, on a net (excluded from revenues) basis.

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

Selling, general and administrative expenses consist primarily of incentive based compensation for sales, finance and general management personnel, salaries for administrative personnel and expenses for rent, marketing, insurance, utilities, research and development and other general operating purposes.

Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block]

Stock Based Compensation

The Company applies the provisions of

ASC topic

718

-

10,

“Compensation – Stock Compensation,” which requires the measurement and recognition of compensation expense for all share-based payment awards made to employees and directors including grants of employee stock options, restricted stock units, restricted stock awards and employee stock purchases under the Employee Stock Purchase Plan based on estimated fair values.

The Company uses the Black-Scholes option-pricing model to estimate the fair value of share-based payment awards on the date of grant. The value of the portion of the award that is ultimately expected to vest is recognized as expense over the requisite service periods.

Compensation expense for all share-based payment awards is recognized using the straight-line single-option method. Stock-based compensation expense is recognized based on awards expected to vest. Accordingly, stock based compensation expense has been reduced for estimated forfeitures. Forfeitures are estimated at the time of grant and revised, if necessary, in subsequent periods if actual forfeitures differ from those estimates.

The Company’s determination of fair value of share-based payment awards on the date of grant using an option-pricing model is affected by the Company’s stock price as well as assumptions regarding a number of highly complex and subjective variables. These variables include the Company’s expected stock price volatility over the term of the awards and actual and projected stock option exercise behaviors. Option-pricing models were developed for use in estimating the value of traded options that have no vesting or hedging restrictions and are fully transferable. Because the Company’s stock options have characteristics that are significantly different from traded options and because changes in the subjective assumptions can materially affect the estimated value, in management’s opinion, the existing valuation models

may

not provide an accurate measure of the fair value that value

may

not be indicative of the fair value observed in a market transaction between a willing buyer and a willing seller.

The following table reflects the weighted-average fair value of stock options granted during each period using the Black-Scholes option valuation model with the following weighted-average assumptions used:

	2016			2015			2014
Expected stock volatility		35.63	%		40.90	%		51.51	%
Weighted-average stock volatility		35.63	%		40.90	%		51.51	%
Expected dividend yield		0.00	%		0.00	%		0.00	%
Risk-free interest rate		1.64	%		1.74	%		2.14	%
Expected life (years)		6.0			6.0			6.5
Weighted-average fair value of stock options granted	$	6.54		$	11.27		$	15.86

The Company computes its historical stock price volatility in accordance with ASC topic

718

-

10.

The risk-free interest rate for periods within the contractual life of the option is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant. The dividend yield assumption is based on the Company’s history and expectation of dividend payouts. The expected life of stock options represents the weighted-average period the stock options are expected to remain outstanding.

Advertising Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Advertising Costs

Advertising costs are expensed as incurred. Advertising and marketing expense was

$6.8

million for

2016,

$8.8

million for

2015

and

$8.7

million for

2014.

Advertising and marketing expense is included in selling, general and administrative expense.

Internal Use Software, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Accounting for Internal Use Software

The Company’s accounting policy with respect to accounting for computer software developed or obtained for internal use is consistent with ASC topic

350

-

40,

which provides guidance on accounting for the costs of computer software developed or obtained for internal use and identifies characteristics of internal-use software.  The Company has capitalized software costs, including capitalized interest, of approximately

$33.0

million at

December

31,

2016,

net of accumulated amortization of

$16.5

million, and had

$36.1

million, net of accumulated amortization of

$13.4

million at

December

31,

2015.

 

Unpaid Policy Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Insurance

The Company is partially self-insured for a portion of the claims related to its property and casualty insurance programs. Accordingly, the Company is required to estimate expected losses to be incurred. The Company engages a

third

-party administrator to assess any open claims and the Company adjusts its accrual accordingly on an annual basis. The Company is also partially self-insured for a portion of the claims related to its worker’s compensation and medical insurance programs. The Company uses actuarial information provided from

third

-party administrators to calculate an accrual for claims incurred, but not reported, and for the remaining portion of claims that have been reported.

Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities

From

2012

until

2015,

the Company utilized derivative financial instruments to manage its interest rate risk relating to the variability of cash flows and changes in the fair value of its financial instruments caused by movements in interest rates. The Company assessed hedge effectiveness at the inception and during the term of each hedge. Derivatives are reported at fair value on the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets.

At

December

31,

2016

and

December

31,

2015,

the Company did

not

have any outstanding interest rate swap contracts.

Fair Value Measurement, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Fair Value Measurements

The Company has various financial instruments that it must measure at fair value on a recurring basis, including certain available for sale securities and derivatives. See

Note

9

– Financial Instruments and Fair Value of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, for further information. The Company also applies the provisions of fair value measurement to various nonrecurring measurements for its financial and nonfinancial assets and liabilities.

Applicable accounting standards define fair value as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date (an exit price). The Company measures its assets and liabilities using inputs from the following

three

levels of the fair value hierarchy:

Level

1

inputs are unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the Company has the ability to access at the measurement date.

Level

2

inputs include quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability (i.e., interest rates, yield curves, etc.), and inputs that are derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data by correlation or other means (market corroborated inputs).

Level

3

includes unobservable inputs that reflect the Company’s assumptions about what factors market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability. The Company develops these inputs based on the best information available, including its own data.

Business Combinations Policy [Policy Text Block]

Acquisitions

The Company uses the acquisition method of accounting for the recognition of assets acquired and liabilities assumed with acquisitions at their estimated fair values as of the date of acquisition. Any excess consideration transferred over the estimated fair values of the identifiable net assets acquired is recorded as goodwill. While the Company uses its best estimates and assumptions to measure the fair value of the identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the acquisition date, the estimates are inherently uncertain and subject to refinement. As a result, during the measurement period, which is not to exceed

one

year from the date of acquisition, any changes in the estimated fair values of the net assets recorded for the acquisitions will result in an adjustment to goodwill. Upon the conclusion of the measurement period or final determination of the values of assets acquired or liabilities assumed, whichever comes

first,

any subsequent adjustments are recorded to the Consolidated Statements of Income.

New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block]

New Accounting Pronouncements

In

March

2016,

the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No.

2016

-

09,

“

Compensation – Stock Compensation (Topic

718),

” which changes the accounting for certain aspects of share-based payments to employees. The new guidance requires excess tax benefits and tax deficiencies to be recorded in the income statement when the awards vest or are settled. In addition, cash flows related to excess tax benefits will no longer be separately classified as a financing activity apart from other income tax cash flows. The standard also allows the Company to repurchase more of an employee’s shares for tax withholding purposes without triggering liability accounting, clarifies that all cash payments made on an employee’s behalf for withheld shares should be presented as a financing activity on its cash flows statement, and provides an accounting policy election to account for forfeitures as they occur. The new standard is effective for the Company beginning

January

 

1,

2017.

The Company does not expect the adoption to materially impact its consolidated financial statements.

In

February

2016,

the FASB issued ASU No.

2016

-

02,

“

Leases (Topic

842),

” which is intended to increase the transparency and comparability among organizations by recognizing lease assets and lease liabilities on the balance sheet and disclosing key information about leasing arrangements. In order to meet that objective, the new standard requires recognition of the assets and liabilities that arise from leases. A lessee will be required to recognize on the balance sheet the assets and liabilities for leases with lease terms of more than

12

months.  Accounting by lessors will remain largely unchanged from current U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. The new standard is effective for public companies for fiscal years beginning after

December

 

15,

2018,

and interim periods within those years, with early adoption permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the effect that adopting this standard will have on our financial statements and related disclosures.

In

May

2014,

the FASB issued ASU No.

2014

-

09,

“

Revenue from Contracts with Customers

(Topic

606)

,” which amends the existing accounting standards for revenue recognition. ASU

2014

-

09

is based on principles that govern the recognition of revenue at an amount an entity expects to be entitled to when products are transferred to customers. ASU

2014

-

09

will be effective for the Company beginning in its

first

quarter of

2018,

and early adoption is permitted. The ASU provides

two

transition methods: (i) retrospectively to each prior reporting period presented or (ii) retrospectively with the cumulative effect of initially applying this ASU recognized at the date of initial application.

Subsequently, the FASB issued the following standards related to ASU

2014

-

09:

ASU No. 

2016

-

08,

“

Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic

606):

Principal versus Agent Considerations”

; ASU No.

2016

-

10,

“

Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic

606):

Identifying Performance Obligations and Licensing

”; and ASU No.

2016

-

12,

“

Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic

606):

Narrow-Scope Improvements and Practical Expedients.”

The Company will adopt ASU 2014-09 on

January

1,

2018.

In

2016,

the Company established a cross-functional team with representatives from its major revenue streams to review our current accounting policies and practices, assess the effect of the standard on our revenue contracts and identify potential differences. In addition, the Company is in the process of evaluating changes to its business processes and controls to support recognition and disclosure under the new standard. While the Company is currently assessing the impact of the new standard, its revenue is primarily generated from the sale of finished products to customers. Those sales predominantly contain a single delivery element and revenue is recognized at a single point in time when ownership, risks and benefits transfer. The timing of revenue recognition for these transactions is not expected to be significantly impacted by the new standard. The Company continues to review the impact of this standard on potential disclosure changes in its financial statements as well as which transition approach will be applied.

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Note 2 - Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Notes Tables

Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block]

	2016			2015			Estimated Life (Years)
Land	$	126,123		$	134,246			-
Buildings and improvements		377,070			313,706		10	-	39
Leasehold improvements		26,925			28,149		2	-	39
Machinery and shop equipment		67,558			59,455		5	-	20
Furniture, fixtures and computers		73,912			74,201		3	-	15
Transportation equipment		73,156			74,761		2	-	15
Lease and rental vehicles		832,661			825,787		2	-	8
Construction in progress		11,921			66,338
Accumulated depreciation and amortization		(453,521	)		(403,819	)
Total	$	1,135,805		$	1,172,824

Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block]

Balance December 31, 2014	$	265,145
Acquisitions and adjustments		19,896
Balance December 31, 2015		285,041
Acquisitions and adjustments		5,150
Balance December 31, 2016	$	290,191

Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions [Table Text Block]

	2016			2015			2014
Expected stock volatility		35.63	%		40.90	%		51.51	%
Weighted-average stock volatility		35.63	%		40.90	%		51.51	%
Expected dividend yield		0.00	%		0.00	%		0.00	%
Risk-free interest rate		1.64	%		1.74	%		2.14	%
Expected life (years)		6.0			6.0			6.5
Weighted-average fair value of stock options granted	$	6.54		$	11.27		$	15.86

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Note 3 - Supplier Concentration (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Notes Tables

Major Suppliers and Dealership Agreements [Table Text Block]

Manufacturer	Expiration Dates
Peterbilt	May 2017 through March 2019
International	December 2017 through March 2021
Isuzu	Indefinite
Hino	Indefinite
Ford	Indefinite
Blue Bird	July 2017
IC Bus	December 2017 through March 2021

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Note 4 - Accounts Receivable (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Notes Tables

Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table Text Block]

	December 31,
	2016			2015
Trade accounts receivable from sale of vehicles	$	83,482		$	76,601
Trade receivables other than vehicles		42,876			43,916
Warranty claims		8,095			8,261
Other accounts receivable		22,409			28,810
Less allowance for bad debt and warranty claims		(663	)		(611	)
Total	$	156,199		$	156,977

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Note 5 - Inventories (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Notes Tables

Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block]

	December 31,
	2016			2015
New commercial vehicles	$	575,879		$	770,861
Used commercial vehicles		71,429			86,960
Parts and accessories		187,419			201,868
Other		15,564			15,341
Less allowance		(9,987	)		(13,832	)
Total	$	840,304		$	1,061,198

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Note 6 - Valuation Accounts (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Notes Tables

Summary of Valuation Allowance [Table Text Block]

	Balance Beginning of Year		Net Charged to Costs and Expenses		Net Write- Offs			Balance End of Year
2016
Reserve for accounts receivable	$	506	$	1,415	$	(1,372	)	$	549
Reserve for warranty receivables		105		833		(824	)		114
Reserve for parts inventory		7,291		3,400		(5,806	)		4,885
Reserve for commercial vehicle inventory		6,541		9,623		(11,062	)		5,102
2015
Reserve for accounts receivable	$	639	$	992	$	(1,125	)	$	506
Reserve for warranty receivables		140		1,677		(1,712	)		105
Reserve for parts inventory		5,067		4,215		(1,991	)		7,291
Reserve for commercial vehicle inventory		10,644		8,417		(12,520	)		6,541
2014
Reserve for accounts receivable	$	821	$	919	$	(1,101	)	$	639
Reserve for warranty receivables		419		411		(690	)		140
Reserve for parts inventory		4,416		2,547		(1,896	)		5,067
Reserve for commercial vehicle inventory		7,395		7,877		(4,628	)		10,644

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Note 7 - Floor Plan Notes Payable and Lines of Credit (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Notes Tables

Assets Pledged As Collateral [Table Text Block]

	December 31,
	2016		2015
Inventories, new and used vehicles at cost based on specific identification, net of allowance	$	642,205	$	851,280
Vehicle sale related accounts receivable		83,482		76,601
Total	$	725,687	$	927,881
Floor plan notes payable related to vehicles	$	646,945	$	854,758

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Note 8 - Long Term Debt (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Notes Tables

Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block]

	December 31,
	2016			2015
Variable interest rate term notes	$	107,894		$	127,508
Fixed interest rate term notes		495,326			520,247
Total debt		603,220			647,755
Less: current maturities		(130,717	)		(151,024	)
Total long-term debt, net of current maturities	$	472,503		$	496,731

Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block]

2017		130,717
2018		125,226
2019		123,353
2020		118,913
2021		59,567
Thereafter		45,444
Total	$	603,220

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Note 9 - Financial Instruments and Fair Value (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Notes Tables

Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block]

	At December 31, 2016						At December 31, 2015
	Level 1 Inputs		Level 2 Inputs		Level 3 Inputs		Level 1 Inputs		Level 2 Inputs		Level 3 Inputs
Investment in auction rate securities		-		-	$	6,231		-		-	$	6,650

Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities Reconciliation [Table Text Block]

	C ost Basis Amount		Gross Unrealized Loss In Accumulated OCI		Fair Value
December 31, 201 6
Investment in auction rate securities	$	6,700	$	469	$	6,231
December 31, 201 5
Investment in auction rate securities	$	7,150	$	500	$	6,650

Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value [Table Text Block]

	Gain (Loss) Recognized in OCI on Derivatives (Effective Portion) during the Year Ended				Location of Loss	Loss Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income (Effective Portion) during the Year Ended
	December 31, 201 6		December 31, 201 5		Reclassified into Income	December 31, 201 6		December 31, 201 5
Interest rate swaps	$	−	$	235	Interest Expense	$	−	$	(55	)

Schedule of Derivative Instruments, Effect on Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]

Description	Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs December 31 , 2016		Loss D uring the Year Ended December 31, 2016
Long-lived assets held for sale	$	13,955	$	(7,481	)

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Note 10 - Leasing Activities (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Notes Tables

Schedule of Future Minimum Lease Payments for Capital Leases and Operating Leases [Table Text Block]

	Capital Leases			Operating Leases
2017	$	17,029		$	819
2018		17,657			672
2019		18,264			602
2020		16,977			342
2021		10,936			342
Thereafter		11,659			190
Total minimum lease payments	$	92,522		$	2,967
Less amount representing interest		(8,029	)
Present value of net minimum capital lease payments		84,493
Less current portion		(14,449	)
Obligations under capital leases less current portion	$	70,044

Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Receivable for Operating Leases [Table Text Block]

2017	$	121,335
2018		103,092
2019		81,532
2020		58,660
2021		34,083
Thereafter		17,257
Total	$	415,959

Operating Leases of Lessee Disclosure [Table Text Block]

2017	$	8,180
2018		6,341
2019		4,639
2020		3,404
2021		1,899
Thereafter		16,336
Total	$	40,799

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Note 11 - Share Based Compensation and Employee Benefit Plans (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Notes Tables

Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block]

						Weighted
				Weighted		Average
				Average		Remaining		Aggregate
				Exercise		Contractual		Intrinsic
Options	Shares			Price		Life (in Years)		Value
Balance of Outstanding Options at January 1, 2016		3,475,115		$	20.95
Granted		493,088			17.65
Exercised		(466,877	)		13.82
Forfeited		(11,500	)		25.55
Balance of Outstanding Options at December 31, 2016		3,489,826		$	21.42		5.86	$	36,573,365
Expected to vest after December 31, 2016		1,823,896		$	24.79		7.63	$	12,969,933
Vested and exercisable at December 31, 2016		1,608,248		$	17.48		3.80	$	23,198,547

Schedule of Nonvested Share Activity [Table Text Block]

				Weighted
				Average
	Number of			Grant Date
Non-vested Shares	Shares			Fair Value
Non-vested at January 1, 2016		1,919,873		$	12.30
Granted		493,088			6.54
Vested		(527,883	)		10.56
Forfeited		(3,500	)		9.24
Non-vested at December 31, 2016		1,881,578		$	11.28

Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units Activity [Table Text Block]

				Weighted
				Average				Weighted
				Remaining		Aggregate		Average
				Contractual		Intrinsic		Grant Date
Stock Awards and Units	Shares			Life (in Years)		Value		Fair Value
Outstanding Non-vested shares at January 1, 2016		483,335						$	24.73
Granted		268,890							17.57
Vested		(233,052	)						24.32
Forfeited		−							−
Outstanding Non-vested at December 31, 2016		519,173			8.6	$	16,561,618	$	21.21
Expected to vest after December 31, 2016		516,649			8.6	$	16,481,103

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Note 12 - Earnings Per Share (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Notes Tables

Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block]

	2016		2015		2014
Numerator-
Numerator for basic and diluted earnings per share -
Net income available to common shareholders	$	40,582	$	66,053	$	79,957
Denominator-
Denominator for basic earnings per share – weighted average shares		39,938		40,271		39,783
Effect of dilutive securities-
Employee and director stock options and restricted share awards		665		822		1,111
Denominator for diluted earnings per share - adjusted weighted average shares and assumed conversions		40,603		41,093		40,894
Basic earnings per common share	$	1.02	$	1.64	$	2.01
Diluted earnings per common share and common share equivalents	$	1.00	$	1.61	$	1.96

Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table Text Block]

	2016		2015		2014
Anti-dilutive options – weighted average		2,043		1,186		482

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Note 13 - Income Taxes (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Notes Tables

Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block]

	Year Ended December 31,
	2016		2015		2014
Current provision-
Federal	$	15,236	$	7,513	$	21,826
State		2,300		2,592		3,531
		17,536		10,105		25,357
Deferred provision-
Federal		8,260		29,561		23,243
State		71		2,084		1,986
		8,331		31,645		25,229
Provision (benefit) for income taxes	$	25,867	$	41,750	$	50,586

Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block]

	Year Ended December 31,
	2016		2015		2014
Income taxes at the federal statutory rate	$	23,255	$	37,733	$	45,691
State income taxes, net of federal benefit		1,552		3,053		3,398
Tax effect of permanent differences		887		959		1,069
Other, net		173		5		428
Provision for income taxes	$	25,867	$	41,750	$	50,586

Schedule of Income Taxes Related to Other Comprehensive Income [Table Text Block]

	Year Ended December 31,
	2016		2015		2014
Income tax expense (benefit) related to components of other comprehensive income:
Change in fair value of cash flow swaps	$	−	$	92	$	308
Change in fair value of available-for-sale securities		13		7		166
Total	$	13	$	99	$	474
Paid in capital – stock based compensation	$	294	$	337	$	(5,207	)

Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block]

	December 31,
	2016			2015
Deferred income tax (assets) liabilities:
Inventory	$	(5,074	)	$	(6,039	)
Accounts receivable		(203	)		(187	)
Capital lease obligations		(31,263	)		(30,993	)
Stock options		(11,655	)		(10,719	)
Accrued liabilities		(3,610	)		(3,685	)
State net operating loss carry forward		(1,921	)		(1,570	)
State tax credit		(380	)		(382	)
Other		(5,170	)		(2,606	)
Difference between book and tax basis- Depreciation and amortization		256,352			244,716
		197,076			188,535
Valuation allowance		255			452
Net deferred income tax liability	$	197,331		$	188,987

Schedule of Unrecognized Tax Benefits Roll Forward [Table Text Block]

	2016			2015			2014
Unrecognized tax benefits at beginning of period	$	2,332		$	2,087		$	1,545
Gross increases – tax positions in current year		429			692			815
Gross increases – tax positions in a prior year					−			−
Reductions due to lapse of statute of limitations		(360	)		(447	)		(273	)
Unrecognized tax benefits at end of period	$	2,401		$	2,332		$	2,087

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Note 15 - Acquisitions (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Notes Tables

Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table Text Block]

Property, equipment and capital lease assets	$	17,241
Inventory		3,662
Prepaid expenses		295
Other		37
Accrued expenses		(960	)
Capital lease obligations		(16,925	)
Total	$	3,350

Property	$	2,308
Inventory		949
Total	$	3,257

Goodwill	$	11,670
Property and equipment		11,316
Inventory		7,206
Other		85
Accrued expenses		(220	)
Total	$	30,057

Goodwill	$	9,159
Inventory		7,622
Property and equipment		7,090
Accounts receivable		1,306
Prepaid expenses		80
Other		4
Total	$	25,261

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Note 16 - Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Notes Tables

Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]

	Cash Flow Swaps			Available for Sale Securities			Total
Balance as of December 31, 2014	$	(143	)	$	(317	)	$	(460	)
Changes in fair value		235			19			254
Income tax expense		(92	)		(7	)		(99	)
Balance as of December 31, 2015	$	−		$	(305	)	$	(305	)
Reclassification of gain into income		−			32			32
Income tax expense		−			(13	)		(13	)
Balance as of December 31, 2016	$	−		$	(286	)	$	(286	)

Reclassifications [Member]

Notes Tables

Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]

	Year Ended
	December 31, 2016		December 31, 2015			December 31, 2014
Losses on cash flow swaps to:
Interest expense	$	−	$	(55	)	$	(196	)
Income tax benefit		−		21			76
Total reclassifications	$	−	$	(34	)	$	(120	)

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Note 17 - Unaudited Quarterly Financial Data (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Notes Tables

Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block]

	First		Second		Third		Fourth
	Quarter		Quarter		Quarter		Quarter
201 6
Revenues	$	1,070,840	$	1,026,462	$	1,096,041	$	1,021,271
Gross profit		183,270		180,478		181,316		172,948
Operating income		8,181		21,572		27,588		23,387
Income before income taxes		3,942		17,809		24,303		20,395
Net income	$	2,395	$	10,817	$	14,880	$	12,490
Earnings per share:
Basic	$	0.06	$	0.27	$	0.38	$	0.32
Diluted	$	0.06	$	0.27	$	0.37	$	0.31
2015
Revenues	$	1,193,535	$	917,878	$	1,294,076	$	1,161,819
Gross profit		193,622		207,633		208,008		175,684
Operating income		30,329		35,560		36,030		19,357
Income before income taxes		27,388		31,962		32,462		15,991
Net income	$	16,781	$	19,576	$	19,883	$	9,813
Earnings per share:
Basic	$	0.42	$	0.49	$	0.49	$	0.24
Diluted	$	0.41	$	0.48	$	0.48	$	0.24

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Note 18 - Segments (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Notes Tables

Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block]

	Truck		All
	Segment		Other			Totals
201 6
Revenues from external customers	$	4,199,348	$	15,266		$	4,214,614
Interest income		621		–			621
Interest expense		14,740		160			14,900
Depreciation and amortization		50,771		490			51,261
Segment operating income		81,483		(756	)		80,728
Segment income (loss) from continuing operations before taxes		67,364		(915	)		66,449
Segment assets		2,570,016		33,031			2,603,047
Goodwill		287,631		2,560			290,191
Expenditures for segment assets		196,704		261			196,965
201 5
Revenues from external customers	$	4,964,642	$	15,091		$	4,979,733
Interest income		490		–			490
Interest expense		13,814		149			13,963
Depreciation and amortization		43,355		504			43,859
Segment operating income		122,907		(1,631	)		121,276
Segment income (loss) from continuing operations before taxes		109,583		(1,780	)		107,803
Segment assets		2,818,255		33,753			2,852,008
Goodwill		282,481		2,560			285,041
Expenditures for segment assets		367,482		308			367,790
201 4
Revenues from external customers	$	4,708,978	$	18,378		$	4,727,356
Interest income		239		–			239
Interest expense		11,278		159			11,437
Depreciation and amortization		40,283		503			40,786
Segment operating income		142,074		(333	)		141,741
Segment income (loss) from continuing operations before taxes		131,035		(492	)		130,543
Segment assets		2,646,018		29,857			2,675,875
Goodwill		262,585		2,560			265,145
Expenditures for segment assets		262,613		510			263,123

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Note 2 - Significant Accounting Policies (Details Textual) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Depreciation		$ 140,600,000	$ 131,800,000
Amortization		17,000,000	13,100,000
Capitalized Computer Software, Net	$ 33,000,000	33,000,000	36,100,000
Capitalized Computer Software, Accumulated Amortization	16,500,000	16,500,000	13,400,000
Indefinite-Lived Franchise Rights	7,000,000	7,000,000	7,900,000
Advertising Expense		6,800,000	8,800,000	$ 8,700,000
Goodwill, Impairment Loss	0
Franchise Rights [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two	3,400,000	3,400,000
Interest Rate Swap [Member] | Cash Flow Hedging [Member]
Derivative Asset, Notional Amount	0	0	0
Vehicles [Member]
Depreciation		106,300,000	101,100,000
Capital Leases, Lessee Balance Sheet, Assets by Major Class, Other Property, Plant, and Equipment, Net	81,500,000	81,500,000
Capital Leases, Lessee Balance Sheet, Assets by Major Class, Property, Plant, and Equipment Other, Accumulated Depreciation	28,700,000	28,700,000
Computer Software, Intangible Asset [Member]
Interest Costs Capitalized		$ 353,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life		15 years
Amortization of Intangible Assets		$ 3,400,000	$ 3,300,000	$ 3,200,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months	3,400,000	3,400,000
Impairment of Intangible Assets, Indefinite-lived (Excluding Goodwill)	0
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three	3,400,000	3,400,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four	3,400,000	3,400,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five	$ 3,400,000	$ 3,400,000

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Note 2 - Significant Accounting Policies - Property and Equipment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Property, plant and equipment, gross	$ 453,521	$ 403,819
Accumulated depreciation and amortization	(453,521)	(403,819)
Total	1,135,805	1,172,824
Land [Member]
Property, plant and equipment, gross	126,123	134,246
Accumulated depreciation and amortization	(126,123)	(134,246)
Building and Building Improvements [Member]
Property, plant and equipment, gross	377,070	313,706
Accumulated depreciation and amortization	$ (377,070)	$ (313,706)
Building and Building Improvements [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Buildings and improvements (Year)	10 years
Building and Building Improvements [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Buildings and improvements (Year)		39 years
Leasehold Improvements [Member]
Property, plant and equipment, gross	$ 26,925	$ 28,149
Accumulated depreciation and amortization	$ (26,925)	$ (28,149)
Leasehold Improvements [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Buildings and improvements (Year)	2 years
Leasehold Improvements [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Buildings and improvements (Year)		39 years
Machinery and Equipment [Member]
Property, plant and equipment, gross	$ 67,558	$ 59,455
Accumulated depreciation and amortization	$ (67,558)	$ (59,455)
Machinery and Equipment [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Buildings and improvements (Year)	5 years
Machinery and Equipment [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Buildings and improvements (Year)		20 years
Furniture and Fixtures [Member]
Property, plant and equipment, gross	$ 73,912	$ 74,201
Accumulated depreciation and amortization	$ (73,912)	$ (74,201)
Furniture and Fixtures [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Buildings and improvements (Year)	3 years
Furniture and Fixtures [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Buildings and improvements (Year)		15 years
Transportation Equipment [Member]
Property, plant and equipment, gross	$ 73,156	$ 74,761
Accumulated depreciation and amortization	$ (73,156)	$ (74,761)
Transportation Equipment [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Buildings and improvements (Year)	2 years
Transportation Equipment [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Buildings and improvements (Year)		15 years
Vehicles [Member]
Property, plant and equipment, gross	$ 832,661	$ 825,787
Accumulated depreciation and amortization	$ (832,661)	$ (825,787)
Vehicles [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Buildings and improvements (Year)	2 years
Vehicles [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Buildings and improvements (Year)		8 years
Construction in Progress [Member]
Property, plant and equipment, gross	$ 11,921	$ 66,338
Accumulated depreciation and amortization	$ (11,921)	$ (66,338)

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Note 2 - Significant Accounting Policies - Goodwill (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Goodwill, balance	$ 285,041	$ 265,145
Acquisitions and adjustments	5,150	19,896
Goodwill, balance	$ 290,191	$ 285,041

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Note 2 - Significant Accounting Policies - Fair Value Assumption (Details) - $ / shares	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Expected stock volatility	35.63%	40.90%	51.51%
Weighted-average stock volatility	35.63%	40.90%	51.51%
Expected dividend yield	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%
Risk-free interest rate	1.64%	1.74%	2.14%
Expected life (years) (Year)	6 years	6 years	6 years 182 days
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$ 6.54	$ 11.27	$ 15.86

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Note 3 - Supplier Concentration (Details Textual)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Product Concentration Risk [Member] | Sales Revenue, Goods, Net [Member]
Concentration Risk, Percentage	61.00%	59.60%	63.50%

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Note 4 - Accounts Receivable - Accounts Receivable (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Warranty claims	$ 8,095	$ 8,261
Other accounts receivable	22,409	28,810
Less allowance for bad debt and warranty claims	(663)	(611)
Total	156,199	156,977
Trade Accounts Receivable From Sale of Vehicles [Member]
Trade receivables	83,482	76,601
Trade Receivable Other Than Vehicles [Member]
Trade receivables	$ 42,876	$ 43,916

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Note 5 - Inventories - Inventories (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
New commercial vehicles	$ 575,879	$ 770,861
Used commercial vehicles	71,429	86,960
Parts and accessories	187,419	201,868
Other	15,564	15,341
Less allowance	(9,987)	(13,832)
Total	$ 840,304	$ 1,061,198

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Note 6 - Valuation Accounts - Valuation and Allowance Accounts (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Allowance for Trade Receivables [Member]
Balance	$ 506	$ 639	$ 821
Net Charged to Costs and Expenses	1,415	992	919
Net Write-Offs	(1,372)	(1,125)	(1,101)
Balance End of Year	549	506	639
Allowance for Warranty Receivables From Manufacturers [Member]
Balance	105	140	419
Net Charged to Costs and Expenses	833	1,677	411
Net Write-Offs	(824)	(1,712)	(690)
Balance End of Year	114	105	140
Parts Inventory [Member]
Balance	7,291	5,067	4,416
Net Charged to Costs and Expenses	3,400	4,215	2,547
Net Write-Offs	(5,806)	(1,991)	(1,896)
Balance End of Year	4,885	7,291	5,067
Commercial Vehicle Inventory [Member]
Balance	6,541	10,644	7,395
Net Charged to Costs and Expenses	9,623	8,417	7,877
Net Write-Offs	(11,062)	(12,520)	(4,628)
Balance End of Year	$ 5,102	$ 6,541	$ 10,644

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Note 7 - Floor Plan Notes Payable and Lines of Credit (Details Textual) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity	$ 17,500,000
Floor Plan Notes Payable	$ 646,945,000	$ 854,758,000
Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate	1.58%	1.47%
Line of Credit Amount Pledged to Secure Letters of Credit	$ 12,000,000
Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity	5,500,000
Long-term Line of Credit	0
BMO Harris Bank N.A. [Member]
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity	$ 875,000,000
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage	2.44%
Debt Instrument, Working Capital Fee Percentage	0.16%
Floor Plan Notes Payable	$ 548,100,000
BMO Harris Bank N.A. [Member] | If Termination Occurs on or Before January 1, 2018 [Member]
Debt Instrument, Prepayment Processing Fee, Percent	2.00%
BMO Harris Bank N.A. [Member] | If Termination Occurs after January 1, 2018 and on or Prior to July 1, 2018 [Member]
Debt Instrument, Prepayment Processing Fee, Percent	1.00%
BMO Harris Bank N.A. [Member] | IfTermination Occurs after July 1, 2018 and Prior to June 30, 2019 [Member]
Debt Instrument, Prepayment Processing Fee Amount	$ 500,000
BMO Harris Bank N.A. [Member] | London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate	1.51%
Ford Motor Financing Agreement [Member]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage	5.25%
Floor Plan Notes Payable	$ 66,400,000
Ford Motor Financing Agreement [Member] | Prime Rate [Member]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate	1.50%
Debt Instrument, Variable Rate, Minimum Reference Rate	3.75%

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Note 7 - Floor Plan Notes Payable and Lines of Credit - Assets Pledged as Collateral (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Inventories, new and used vehicles at cost based on specific identification, net of allowance	$ 642,205	$ 851,280
Vehicle sale related accounts receivable	83,482	76,601
Total	725,687	927,881
Floor Plan Notes Payable	$ 646,945	$ 854,758

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Note 8 - Long Term Debt (Details Textual)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016 USD ($)
Minimum [Member]
Long-term Debt, Percentage Bearing Variable Interest, Percentage Rate	2.30%
Long-term Debt, Percentage Bearing Fixed Interest, Percentage Rate	2.75%
Minimum [Member] | Variable Interest Rate Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument, Periodic Payment	$ 3,111
Minimum [Member] | Fixed Interest Rate Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument, Periodic Payment	$ 255
Maximum [Member]
Long-term Debt, Percentage Bearing Variable Interest, Percentage Rate	2.70%
Long-term Debt, Percentage Bearing Fixed Interest, Percentage Rate	7.61%
Maximum [Member] | Variable Interest Rate Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument, Periodic Payment	$ 125,833
Maximum [Member] | Fixed Interest Rate Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument, Periodic Payment	$ 27,607

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Note 8 - Long Term Debt - Long-term Debt (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Variable interest rate term notes	$ 107,894	$ 127,508
Fixed interest rate term notes	495,326	520,247
Total	603,220	647,755
Less: current maturities	(130,717)	(151,024)
Total long-term debt, net of current maturities	$ 472,503	$ 496,731

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Note 8 - Long Term Debt - Debt Maturities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
2017	$ 130,717
2018	125,226
2019	123,353
2020	118,913
2021	59,567
Thereafter	45,444
Total	$ 603,220	$ 647,755

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Note 9 - Financial Instruments and Fair Value (Details Textual)	3 Months Ended				6 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016 USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2016 USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2015 USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2014 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2011 USD ($)
Asset Impairment Charges						$ 8,247,000			$ 1,000,000
Available-for-sale Debt Securities Gross Unrealized Gain								$ 427,000
Impairment of Real Estate						7,500,000
Number of Real Estate Properties Sold During Period					4
Real Estate Held-for-sale					$ 6,100,000	6,100,000
Auction Rate Securities [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities					6,231,000	6,231,000	6,650,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis					$ 6,700,000	$ 6,700,000	$ 7,150,000
Auction Rate Securities Redeemed	$ 200,000	$ 250,000	$ 275,000	$ 150,000
Derivative, Basis Spread on Variable Rate					2.25%	2.25%

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Note 9 - Financial Instruments and Fair Value - Investment in Auction Rate Securities - Fair Value (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities	$ 6,231	$ 6,650

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Note 9 - Financial Instruments and Fair Value - Investment in Auction Rate Securities (Details) - Auction Rate Securities [Member] - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	$ 6,700,000	$ 7,150,000
Gross unrealized loss in accumulated OCI	469,000	500,000
Available-for-sale Securities	$ 6,231,000	$ 6,650,000

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Note 9 - Financial Instruments and Fair Value - Fair Values of Derivative Instruments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Interest rate swaps	$ 14,900	$ 13,963	$ 11,437
Interest rate swaps	(14,900)	(13,963)	$ (11,437)
Other Noncurrent Liabilities [Member]
Interest rate swaps		235
Interest rate swaps		55
Interest rate swaps		$ (55)

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Note 9 - Financial Instruments and Fair Value - Pre-tax Effect of Interest Rate Swaps (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016 USD ($)
Long-lived assets held for sale, Fair value	$ 13,955
Long-lived assets held for sale, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings	$ (7,481)

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Note 10 - Leasing Activities (Details Textual) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Operating Leases, Rent Expense	$ 182,040,000	$ 176,891,000	$ 152,967,000
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Future Minimum Sublease Rentals	75,200,000
Land and Building [Member]
Operating Leases, Rent Expense	10,300,000	11,800,000	12,800,000
Vehicle Leases as Lessee 1 [Member]
Guaranteed Residual Value Under Operating Lease Arrangements	500,000
Guaranteed Residual Value Under Capital Lease Arrangements	34,000,000
Operating Leases, Rent Expense	1,300,000	2,400,000	4,100,000
Vehicle Leases as Lessor [Member]
Operating Leases, Income Statement, Minimum Lease Revenue	182,100,000	175,000,000	154,800,000
Operating Leases, Income Statement, Contingent Revenue	27,800,000	27,400,000	$ 24,500,000
Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease, Net	570,100,000	592,000,000
Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease, Accumulated Depreciation	262,600,000	$ 233,800,000
Minimum [Member] | Land and Building [Member]
Monthly Rental Payment Operating Lease	$ 275
Minimum [Member] | Vehicle Leases as Lessee 1 [Member]
Lease Term	1 year
Minimum [Member] | Vehicle Leases as Lessor [Member]
Lease Term	1 year
Maximum [Member] | Land and Building [Member]
Monthly Rental Payment Operating Lease	$ 46,479
Maximum [Member] | Vehicle Leases as Lessee 1 [Member]
Lease Term	10 years
Maximum [Member] | Vehicle Leases as Lessor [Member]
Lease Term	10 years

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Note 10 - Leasing Activities - Future Minimum Lease Payments Under Capital and Non-cancelable Vehicle Leases (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
2017	$ 17,029
2017	819
2018	17,657
2018	672
2019	18,264
2019	602
2020	16,977
2020	342
2021	10,936
2021	342
Thereafter	11,659
Thereafter	190
Total minimum lease payments	92,522
Total minimum lease payments	2,967
Less amount representing interest	(8,029)
Present value of net minimum capital lease payments	84,493
Less current portion	(14,449)	$ (14,691)
Obligations under capital leases less current portion	$ 70,044	$ 69,074

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Note 10 - Leasing Activities - Future Minimum Rental Receivable (Details) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016 USD ($)
2017	$ 121,335
2018	103,092
2019	81,532
2020	58,660
2021	34,083
Thereafter	17,257
Total	$ 415,959

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Note 10 - Leasing Activities - Future Minimum Lease Payments Under Operating Leases (Details) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016 USD ($)
2017	$ 819
2018	672
2019	602
2020	342
2021	342
Thereafter	190
Total	2,967
Land and Building [Member]
2017	8,180
2018	6,341
2019	4,639
2020	3,404
2021	1,899
Thereafter	16,336
Total	$ 40,799

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Note 11 - Share Based Compensation and Employee Benefit Plans (Details Textual) - USD ($)		12 Months Ended
	May 17, 2016	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	May 20, 2014	May 18, 2010	May 16, 2006
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross		493,088
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense		$ 12,900,000	$ 12,400,000	$ 11,300,000
Proceeds from Stock Options Exercised		6,500,000	4,300,000	12,500,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Intrinsic Value		4,800,000	2,600,000	18,700,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested in Period, Fair Value		$ 5,600,000	$ 5,100,000	$ 3,300,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value		$ 6.54	$ 11.27	$ 15.86
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value		$ 17.57	$ 24.75	$ 26.81
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized		$ 13,300,000
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition		2 years 73 days
Deferred Compensation Plan [Member]
Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Vested Percentage		100.00%
Deferred Compensation Liability, Current		$ 7,200,000	$ 4,900,000
Cash Surrender Value of Life Insurance		$ 6,800,000	4,800,000
Rush 401 Plan [Member]
Contribution Plan Period for Eligibility		90 days
Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution, Percent of Employees' Gross Pay		10.00%
Defined Contribution Plan, Cost Recognized		$ 6,500,000	$ 6,200,000	$ 5,200,000
Rush 401 Plan [Member] | Highly Compensated Employees [Member]
Defined Contribution Plan, Maximum Annual Contributions Per Employee, Percent		15.00%
Rush 401 Plan [Member] | Employees with Less than Five Years of Service [Member]
Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution, Percent of Match		20.00%
Rush 401 Plan [Member] | Employees with More Than Five Years of Service [Member]
Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution, Percent of Match		40.00%
Rush 401 Plan [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Defined Contribution Plan, Maximum Annual Contributions Per Employee, Percent		1.00%
Rush 401 Plan [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Defined Contribution Plan, Maximum Annual Contributions Per Employee, Percent		50.00%
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Fair Value		$ 5,700,000
Common Class A [Member]
Share Price		$ 31.90
Employee Stock Purchase Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Purchase Price of Common Stock, Percent		85.00%
Maximum Fair Value for Employee Stock Purchase Per Year		$ 25,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Additional Shares Authorized	500,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant		528,000
Common Stock, Capital Shares Reserved for Future Issuance		1,400,000
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Employee Stock Purchase Plans		137,360	85,263
Number of Employees Eligible to Participate in Stock Purchase Plan		6,180
Number of Employees Participating in Stock Purchase Plan		1,011
The 2006 Non-Employee Director Stock Option Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized							1,500,000
Reduction in Number of Shares Reserved for Issuance						1,000,000
Number of Shares Available for Purchase With Options by Nonemployee Director Each Year		20,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Expiration Period		10 years
The 2006 Non-Employee Director Stock Option Plan [Member] | Common Class A [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant		165,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized		500,000
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures		27,038	26,460
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross		493,088	485,838
The 2006 Non-Employee Director Stock Option Plan [Member] | Shares Issued to Four Non-employee Directors [Member]
Issuance of Cash for Non-employee Director Compensation, Percent		40.00%
Issuance of Stock and Cash for Non-employee Director Compensation		$ 125,000
The 2006 Non-Employee Director Stock Option Plan [Member] | Shares Issued to Three Non-employee Directors [Member] | Common Class A [Member]
Share-based Goods and Nonemployee Services Transaction, Quantity of Securities Issued			4,725
The 2006 Non-Employee Director Stock Option Plan [Member] | Shares Issued to One Nonemployee Director [Member] | Common Class A [Member]
Share-based Goods and Nonemployee Services Transaction, Quantity of Securities Issued			3,780
Payment to Nonemployee Directors			$ 25,000
The 2006 Non-Employee Director Stock Option Plan [Member] | Shares Issued to Three Non-employee Directors 2 [Member] | Common Class A [Member]
Issuance of Stock and Cash for Non-employee Director Compensation			$ 125,000
Share-based Goods and Nonemployee Services Transaction, Quantity of Securities Issued			2,835
Payment to Nonemployee Directors			$ 50,000
The 2006 Non-Employee Director Stock Option Plan [Member] | Shares Issued to Two Nonemployee Directors [Member] | Common Class A [Member]
Share-based Goods and Nonemployee Services Transaction, Quantity of Securities Issued		6,145
The 2006 Non-Employee Director Stock Option Plan [Member] | Shares Issued to Four Non-employee Directors 2 [Member] | Common Class A [Member]
Issuance of Stock and Cash for Non-employee Director Compensation		$ 125,000
Share-based Goods and Nonemployee Services Transaction, Quantity of Securities Issued		3,687
Payment to Nonemployee Directors		$ 50,000
Amended and Restated 2007 Incentive Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Expiration Period		10 years
Amended and Restated 2007 Incentive Plan [Member] | Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period		3 years
Amended and Restated 2007 Incentive Plan [Member] | Common Class A [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant		856,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized					6,050,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Maximum Number of Shares Per Employee		100,000
Amended and Restated 2007 Incentive Plan [Member] | Common Class B [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant		539,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized					1,450,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Maximum Number of Shares Per Employee		100,000
Amended and Restated 2007 Incentive Plan [Member] | Common Class B [Member] | Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross		268,890	259,490
Every 6 Months [Member] | Employee Stock Purchase Plan [Member]
Defined Contribution Plan, Maximum Annual Contributions Per Employee, Amount		$ 10,625

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Note 11 - Share Based Compensation and Employee Benefit Plans - Stock Option (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016 USD ($) $ / shares shares
Balance of Outstanding Options at January 1, 2016 (in shares) | shares	3,475,115
Balance of Outstanding Options at January 1, 2016 (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 20.95
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross | shares	493,088
Granted (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 17.65
Exercised (in shares) | shares	(466,877)
Exercised (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 13.82
Forfeited (in shares) | shares	(11,500)
Forfeited (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 25.55
Balance of Outstanding Options at December 31, 2016 (in shares) | shares	3,489,826
Balance of Outstanding Options at December 31, 2016 (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 21.42
Balance of Outstanding Options at December 31, 2016 (Year)	5 years 313 days
Balance of Outstanding Options at December 31, 2016 | $	$ 36,573,365
Expected to vest after December 31, 2016 (in shares) | shares	1,823,896
Expected to vest after December 31, 2016 (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 24.79
Expected to vest after December 31, 2016 (Year)	7 years 229 days
Expected to vest after December 31, 2016 | $	$ 12,969,933
Vested and exercisable at December 31, 2016 (in shares) | shares	1,608,248
Vested and exercisable at December 31, 2016 (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 17.48
Vested and exercisable at December 31, 2016 (Year)	3 years 292 days
Vested and exercisable at December 31, 2016 | $	$ 23,198,547

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Note 11 - Share Based Compensation and Employee Benefit Plans - Non-vested Options (Details) - $ / shares	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Non-vested at January 1, 2016 (in shares)	1,919,873
Non-vested at January 1, 2016 (in dollars per share)	$ 12.30
Granted (in shares)	493,088
Granted (in dollars per share)	$ 6.54	$ 11.27	$ 15.86
Vested (in shares)	(527,883)
Vested (in dollars per share)	$ 10.56
Forfeited (in shares)	(3,500)
Forfeited (in dollars per share)	$ 9.24
Non-vested at December 31, 2016 (in shares)	1,881,578	1,919,873
Non-vested at December 31, 2016 (in dollars per share)	$ 11.28	$ 12.30

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Note 11 - Share Based Compensation and Employee Benefit Plans - Non-vested Restricted Stock Awards and RSU's (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$ 17.57	$ 24.75	$ 26.81
Restricted Stock [Member]
Outstanding Non-vested shares at January 1, 2016 (in shares)	483,335
Outstanding Non-vested shares at January 1, 2016 (in dollars per share)	$ 24.73
Granted (in shares)	268,890
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$ 17.57
Vested (in shares)	(233,052)
Vested (in dollars per share)	$ 24.32
Outstanding Non-vested at December 31, 2016 (in shares)	519,173	483,335
Outstanding Non-vested at December 31, 2016 (Year)	8 years 219 days
Outstanding Non-vested at December 31, 2016	$ 16,561,618
Outstanding Non-vested at December 31, 2016 (in dollars per share)	$ 21.21	$ 24.73
Expected to vest after December 31, 2016 (in shares)	516,649
Expected to vest after December 31, 2016 (Year)	8 years 219 days
Expected to vest after December 31, 2016	$ 16,481,103

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Note 12 - Earnings Per Share (Details Textual)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Common Class A [Member]
Common Stock, Voting Rights	1/20th of one vote per share
Common Class B [Member]
Common Stock, Voting Rights	One full vote per share

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Note 12- Earnings Per Share - Earnings Per Share Calculation (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Net income available to common shareholders	$ 40,582	$ 66,053	$ 79,957
Denominator for basic earnings per share – weighted average shares (in shares)	39,938	40,271	39,783
Employee and director stock options and restricted share awards (in shares)	665	822	1,111
Denominator for diluted earnings per share - adjusted weighted average shares and assumed conversions (in shares)	40,603	41,093	40,894
Basic earnings per common share (in dollars per share)	$ 1.02	$ 1.64	$ 2.01
Diluted earnings per common share and common share equivalents (in dollars per share)	$ 1	$ 1.61	$ 1.96

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Note 12 - Earnings Per Share - Anti-dilutive Securities (Details) - shares shares in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Anti-dilutive options – weighted average (in shares)	2,043	1,186	482

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Note 13 - Income Taxes (Details Textual) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance	$ 255,000	$ 452,000
Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate	2,400,000	2,300,000
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Interest on Income Taxes Accrued	34,800	11,600	$ 17,500
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Interest on Income Taxes Expense	145,000	$ 110,100	$ 98,500
State and Local Jurisdiction [Member]
Operating Loss Carryforwards	$ 44,600,000
State and Local Jurisdiction [Member] | Earliest Tax Year [Member]
Open Tax Year	2012
State and Local Jurisdiction [Member] | Latest Tax Year [Member]
Open Tax Year	2016
State and Local Jurisdiction [Member] | Deferred Tax Assets Related to Operating Loss Carryforwards [Member]
Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance	$ 255,000
Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, Increase (Decrease), Amount	$ 197,000
Domestic Tax Authority [Member] | Earliest Tax Year [Member]
Open Tax Year	2013
Domestic Tax Authority [Member] | Latest Tax Year [Member]
Open Tax Year	2016

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Note 13 - Income Taxes - Income Tax Expense (Benefits) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Current provision-
Federal	$ 15,236	$ 7,513	$ 21,826
State	2,300	2,592	3,531
Total current	17,536	10,105	25,357
Deferred provision-
Federal	8,260	29,561	23,243
State	71	2,084	1,986
Total deferred	8,331	31,645	25,229
Provision (benefit) for income taxes	$ 25,867	$ 41,750	$ 50,586

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Note 13 - Income Taxes - Reconciliation (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Income taxes at the federal statutory rate	$ 23,255	$ 37,733	$ 45,691
State income taxes, net of federal benefit	1,552	3,053	3,398
Tax effect of permanent differences	887	959	1,069
Other, net	173	5	428
Provision (benefit) for income taxes	$ 25,867	$ 41,750	$ 50,586

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Note 13 - Income Taxes - Components of Income Taxes Related to Other Comprehensive Income (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Income tax expense (benefit) related to components of other comprehensive income:
Change in fair value of cash flow swaps		$ 92	$ 308
Change in fair value of available-for-sale securities	13	7	166
Total	13	99	474
Paid in capital – stock based compensation	294	337	5,207
Paid in capital – stock based compensation	$ (294)	$ (337)	$ (5,207)

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Note 13 - Income Taxes - Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Deferred income tax (assets) liabilities:
Inventory	$ (5,074)	$ (6,039)
Accounts receivable	(203)	(187)
Capital lease obligations	(31,263)	(30,993)
Stock options	(11,655)	(10,719)
Accrued liabilities	(3,610)	(3,685)
State net operating loss carry forward	(1,921)	(1,570)
State tax credit	(380)	(382)
Other	(5,170)	(2,606)
Difference between book and tax basis- Depreciation and amortization	256,352	244,716
Total	197,076	188,535
Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance	255	452
Net deferred income tax liability	$ 197,331	$ 188,987

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Note 13 - Income Taxes - Unrecognized Tax Benefits (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Unrecognized tax benefits at beginning of period	$ 2,332	$ 2,087	$ 1,545
Gross increases – tax positions in current year	429	692	815
Reductions due to lapse of statute of limitations	(360)	(447)	(273)
Unrecognized tax benefits at end of period	$ 2,401	$ 2,332	$ 2,087

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Note 14 - Commitments and Contingencies (Details Textual) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016 USD ($)
Construction Contracts for Facilities [Member]
Purchase Commitment, Remaining Minimum Amount Committed	$ 8.1
Information Technology Contracts [Member]
Purchase Commitment, Remaining Minimum Amount Committed	$ 14.9

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Note 15 - Acquisitions (Details Textual) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	May 27, 2016	Sep. 28, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Jul. 27, 2015	May 04, 2015	Feb. 09, 2015
Peterbilt in Charlotte [Member]
Proceeds from Sales of Business, Affiliate and Productive Assets		$ 6,400
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Accounts Payable		5,900
Transwest Truck Center and Ford Truck Franchise in Las Vegas [Member]
Business Combination, Consideration Transferred	$ 800
Peterbilt of Las Vegas [Member]
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net		$ 3,400
Dallas Truck Center, Inc. [Member]
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net				$ 3,257
Yancey Truck Centers LLC [Member]
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net					$ 30,057
Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life			15 years
Effingham Truck Sales Inc. [Member]
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net						$ 25,261
Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life			15 years

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Note 15 - Acquisitions - Purchase Price Allocation (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 28, 2015	Jul. 27, 2015	May 04, 2015	Feb. 09, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Goodwill	$ 290,191	$ 285,041					$ 265,145
Peterbilt of Las Vegas, Inc. [Member]
Property, equipment and capital lease assets			$ 17,241
Inventory			3,662
Prepaid expenses			295
Other			37
Accrued expenses			(960)
Capital lease obligations			(16,925)
Total			$ 3,350
Dallas Truck Center, Inc. [Member]
Property, equipment and capital lease assets				$ 2,308
Inventory				949
Total				$ 3,257
Yancey Truck Centers LLC [Member]
Property, equipment and capital lease assets					$ 11,316
Inventory					7,206
Other					85
Accrued expenses					(220)
Total					30,057
Goodwill					$ 11,670
Effingham Truck Sales Inc. [Member]
Property, equipment and capital lease assets						$ 7,090
Inventory						7,622
Prepaid expenses						80
Other						4
Total						25,261
Goodwill						9,159
Accounts receivable						$ 1,306

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Note 16 - Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income - Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Balance		$ (143)
Balance	(305)	(317)
Balance	(305)	(460)
Changes in fair value		235	$ 789
Changes in fair value	32	19	427
Changes in fair value	32	254
Income tax expense		(92)
Income tax expense	(13)	(7)	(166)
Income tax expense	(13)	(99)	(474)
Balance, Cash flow swaps			(143)
Balance, available for sale securities	(286)	(305)	(317)
Balance	$ (286)	$ (305)	$ (460)

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Note 16 - Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income - Loss Reclassified From Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Into Earnings (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Losses on cash flow swaps to:
Interest expense		$ (55)	$ (196)
Income tax benefit		21	76
Total reclassifications		$ (34)	$ (120)

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Note 17 - Unaudited Quarterly Financial Data - Quarterly Financial Data (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Revenues from external customers	$ 4,214,614	$ 4,979,733	$ 4,727,356
Gross profit	718,012	784,947	756,046
Segment operating income	80,728	121,276	141,741
Segment income (loss) from continuing operations before taxes	66,449	107,803	130,543
Net income	$ 40,582	$ 66,053	$ 79,957
Earnings per common share:
Basic (in dollars per share)	$ 1.02	$ 1.64	$ 2.01
Diluted (in dollars per share)	$ 1	$ 1.61	$ 1.96
Revenues from external customers	$ 4,214,614	$ 4,979,733	$ 4,727,356
Gross profit	718,012	784,947	756,046
Segment operating income	80,728	121,276	141,741
Segment income (loss) from continuing operations before taxes	66,449	107,803	130,543
Net income	40,582	66,053	$ 79,957
First Quarter [Member]
Revenues from external customers	1,070,840	1,193,535
Gross profit	183,270	193,622
Segment operating income	8,181	30,329
Segment income (loss) from continuing operations before taxes	3,942	27,388
Net income	$ 2,395	$ 16,781
Earnings per common share:
Basic (in dollars per share)	$ 0.06	$ 0.42
Diluted (in dollars per share)	$ 0.06	$ 0.41
Revenues from external customers	$ 1,070,840	$ 1,193,535
Gross profit	183,270	193,622
Segment operating income	8,181	30,329
Segment income (loss) from continuing operations before taxes	3,942	27,388
Net income	2,395	16,781
Second Quarter [Member]
Revenues from external customers	1,026,462	917,878
Gross profit	180,478	207,633
Segment operating income	21,572	35,560
Segment income (loss) from continuing operations before taxes	17,809	31,962
Net income	$ 10,817	$ 19,576
Earnings per common share:
Basic (in dollars per share)	$ 0.27	$ 0.49
Diluted (in dollars per share)	$ 0.27	$ 0.48
Revenues from external customers	$ 1,026,462	$ 917,878
Gross profit	180,478	207,633
Segment operating income	21,572	35,560
Segment income (loss) from continuing operations before taxes	17,809	31,962
Net income	10,817	19,576
Third Quarter [Member]
Revenues from external customers	1,096,041	1,294,076
Gross profit	181,316	208,008
Segment operating income	27,588	36,030
Segment income (loss) from continuing operations before taxes	24,303	32,462
Net income	$ 14,880	$ 19,883
Earnings per common share:
Basic (in dollars per share)	$ 0.38	$ 0.49
Diluted (in dollars per share)	$ 0.37	$ 0.48
Revenues from external customers	$ 1,096,041	$ 1,294,076
Gross profit	181,316	208,008
Segment operating income	27,588	36,030
Segment income (loss) from continuing operations before taxes	24,303	32,462
Net income	14,880	19,883
Fourth Quarter [Member]
Revenues from external customers	1,021,271	1,161,819
Gross profit	172,948	175,684
Segment operating income	23,387	19,357
Segment income (loss) from continuing operations before taxes	20,395	15,991
Net income	$ 12,490	$ 9,813
Earnings per common share:
Basic (in dollars per share)	$ 0.32	$ 0.24
Diluted (in dollars per share)	$ 0.31	$ 0.24
Revenues from external customers	$ 1,021,271	$ 1,161,819
Gross profit	172,948	175,684
Segment operating income	23,387	19,357
Segment income (loss) from continuing operations before taxes	20,395	15,991
Net income	$ 12,490	$ 9,813

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Note 18 - Segments - Segment Reporting Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Revenues from external customers	$ 4,214,614	$ 4,979,733	$ 4,727,356
Interest income	621	490	239
Interest rate swaps	14,900	13,963	11,437
Depreciation and amortization	51,261	43,859	40,786
Segment operating income	80,728	121,276	141,741
Segment income (loss) from continuing operations before taxes	66,449	107,803	130,543
Segment assets	2,603,047	2,852,008	2,675,875
Goodwill	290,191	285,041	265,145
Expenditures for segment assets	196,965	367,790	263,123
Truck Segment [Member]
Revenues from external customers	4,199,348	4,964,642	4,708,978
Interest income	621	490	239
Interest rate swaps	14,740	13,814	11,278
Depreciation and amortization	50,771	43,355	40,283
Segment operating income	81,483	122,907	142,074
Segment income (loss) from continuing operations before taxes	67,364	109,583	131,035
Segment assets	2,570,016	2,818,255	2,646,018
Goodwill	287,631	282,481	262,585
Expenditures for segment assets	196,704	367,482	262,613
Other Segments [Member]
Revenues from external customers	15,266	15,091	18,378
Interest income
Interest rate swaps	160	149	159
Depreciation and amortization	490	504	503
Segment operating income	(756)	(1,631)	(333)
Segment income (loss) from continuing operations before taxes	(915)	(1,780)	(492)
Segment assets	33,031	33,753	29,857
Goodwill	2,560	2,560	2,560
Expenditures for segment assets	$ 261	$ 308	$ 510

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Note 19 - Asset Impairment (Details Textual) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014 USD ($)
Air Transportation Equipment [Member] | Truck Segment [Member]
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets Held-for-use	$ 3.4

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Note 20 - Related Party Transactions (Details Textual) - CCTTS [Member] - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Due from Related Parties		$ 10.2	$ 10.6
London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]
Related Party Transaction, Rate		4.00%
Maximum [Member]
Related Party Transaction, Amounts of Transaction	$ (16.0)

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Note 21 - Restructuring Costs (Details Textual)	3 Months Ended	6 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2016 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2011 USD ($)
Asset Impairment Charges			$ 8,247,000			$ 1,000,000
Impairment of Real Estate			7,500,000
Number of Real Estate Properties Sold During Period		4
Real Estate Held-for-sale		$ 6,100,000	$ 6,100,000
Operating Segments [Member]
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost	$ 9,000,000
Restructuring and Related Cost, Number of Positions Eliminated			100
Operating Segments [Member] | Selling, General and Administrative Expenses [Member]
Asset Impairment Charges			$ 3,200,000
Severance Costs			700,000
Impairment of Real Estate			$ 5,000,000