MINNEAPOLIS — In what could generate leads for participating dealers, U.S. Bank and TrueCar recently joined forces to create the U.S. Bank Auto Buying Service.

Officials highlighted the U.S. Bank Auto Buying Service can help shoppers to find the vehicle of their choice with preferred upfront pricing and fast, easy access to financing information.

With the U.S. Bank Auto Buying Service, officials stressed shoppers will receive guaranteed upfront pricing from a nationwide network of more than 5,000 certified dealers — all dedicated to providing guaranteed upfront pricing that can save consumers time and potentially thousands of dollars.

TrueCar requires that its dealers maintain total transparency in their pricing so the consumer is able to see a price even before they are introduced to the dealer.

Officials went on to mention the U.S. Bank Auto Buying Service can help consumers buy a vehicle and apply for financing in just a few clicks. U.S. Bank contends it's one of the top bank auto lenders in the country with competitive interest rates, no down payment required, flexible repayment terms, same-day credit decisions and low monthly payments

Additionally, U.S. EPA Certified SmartWay vehicles get a 0.50 percent rate reduction with the U.S. Bank Green Auto Loan.

"Buying a car should be an exciting, rewarding experience," stated David Herpers, vice president of consumer credit products at U.S. Bank.

"The U.S. Bank Auto Buying Service gives our customers a fast, predictable and hassle-free shopping experience, with a direct connection to financing information so they can take action if they find the perfect vehicle," Herpers continued.

Bernie Brenner, chief strategy officer of TrueCar, added, "U.S. Bank has long been synonymous with providing convenience and value to their customers,

"These are the same goals that have driven TrueCar to create a truly intelligent automotive marketplace — making our partnership with U.S Bank one that will be productive for many years to come," Brenner emphasized.

To date, TrueCar has facilitated the sale of more than 350,000 vehicles — saving consumers more than $1 billion off of MSRP, according to the company.