More than 60 firefighters tackled a massive blaze at a car dealership in Chichester on Friday.
The A27 was shut in both directions while emergency teams tackled the fire at a Peugeot garage in the city.
Fire teams were forced from the two-storey building in Quarry Lane as the blaze worsened.
The industrial estate in West Sussex where the dealership is based was evacuated - a spokesman said that no injuries had been reported.
Gas cylinders
It is estimated that at least 50% of the building has been destroyed.
Fire crews said gas cylinders were also involved.
Police also closed the A259 and nearby train services were stopped due to dense smoke.
A spokeswoman for West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service said: "It is far too early to tell where or how the fire stated, but due to its size there will be an investigation."