Sterling Truck Corp. has announced plans to unveil a new low cab-over-engine truck at NTEA’s Work Truck Show in Atlanta on March 1-3, 2006. The truck maker says it will be the only OEM to offer a full line of Class 3-8 commercial vehicles.
The vehicle will be rolled out in Classes 3, 4 and 5 starting in spring 2006 at select Sterling dealerships across North America. “The new low cab-over-engine truck is an exciting addition to the Sterling brand as we strive to provide our customers with a comprehensive offering for their trucking needs,” says Chris Patterson, president and chief executive officer of the Freightliner group.
Sterling says the vehicle will feature a low operating cost, competitive price points and the necessary configurations for all popular body options like dry van, reefer and stake applications. The truck will be available with a 4.9L diesel engine, six-speed automatic transmission and up to five wheelbases to accommodate 12- to 20-foot bodies. Additionally, the vehicle will come standard with comfort features like air conditioning and is available in five different colors.
“We’ve also made the entire purchasing process easy for our busy customers,” says John Merrifield, senior vice president of distribution for the Freightliner group. “The trucks can be purchased directly off dealership lots, dealers have been trained to provide expert pre- and post-sale support demanded by commercial truck owners, and prospective customers will benefit from Sterling dealers’ reputation as ‘work truck experts.’ ”
Designed for applications such as wholesale and retail services, pickup and delivery, landscaping and construction applications, the new truck features outstanding maneuverability, low maintenance requirements and a modern, comfortable cab with the easiest entry and egress in the industry, according to Sterling.
“We are proud that, with the introduction of this new truck, we have achieved Sterling’s vision of being a full-line provider of vocational trucks,” Patterson says. “Not only is this a logical next step in the growth of the company, but it also provides a platform for future product introductions.”
Sterling, based in Redford, Mich., already is positioned in the medium- and heavy-duty market with its three conventional models — the A-Line, L-Line, and the Acterra — plus the Class 6-7 cab-over Cargo. The trucks are designed for a wide array of vocational applications, from on-highway LTL and regional haul to construction and refuse.
