Rush Enterprises, which operates the largest network of commercial vehicle dealerships in North America, reported record annual revenues along with the highest quarterly pre-tax income in the company’s history.

The company said annual revenues reached $2.6 billion compared to $1.5 billion in 2010. Income from continuing operations for the fourth quarter was $19.4 million compared with income from continuing operations of $9.2 million in the quarter ended December 31, 2010.

In 2011, Rush said Class 8 retail sales increased by 91% over 2010, far outpacing the U.S. Class 8 truck market, which increased by 58%. Rush’s Class 8 truck sales accounted for 5.2% of the total U.S. Class 8 retail truck sales market in 2011.

W. M. “Rusty” Rush, president and chief executive officer of Rush Enterprises, said, “Increased Class 8 truck sales were primarily the result of continued strong demand from our energy sector customers and replacement purchases by large fleets.”

In its outlook, the company said it expects U.S. Class 8 retail sales will remain on pace to reach approximately 200,000 to 215,000 units in 2012, just slightly above historical replacement levels. U. S. retail sales for Class 4-7 are expected to reach 163,000 units in 2012, a 13% increase over 2011.

To read Rush’s full earnings report click here.