Sterling unveils Class 3-5 low cabover truck

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Sterling Truck Corp. on Tuesday, Feb. 28 launched the Sterling 360, a low cab-over-engine truck for light medium-duty applications. To be introduced this spring in Classes 4 and 5 and next year in Class 3, the 360 was developed through DaimlerChrysler’s “Global Excellence” initiative and built on a Fuso platform. Like Sterling and its parent Freightliner, Fuso is a DaimlerChrysler brand.

Although the 360 is similar to the Fuso product, the total package — including the support network, financing and upfitting options — is particular to Sterling, company officials said. “Sterling is now the only truck OEM to offer customers a full line of Class 3-8 vehicles, which allows us to reach a wider customer base and provides us with a platform for future product introductions,” says John Merrifield, senior vice president of distribution for Freightliner Group.

Among the benefits of the 360 compared to other trucks in its class is fuel economy, Sterling says. Based on independent testing, the company estimates that the truck produces savings of about $600 a year over competitive models. Other features include easy entry/egress, a larger cab compartment than competitors, a tight turn radius and a larger windshield for better maneuverability and visibility.

Specs and options for the Sterling 360 include:

  • 4.9L turbo diesel engine with 175hp at 2700 rpm and 391 lbs.-ft. of torque at 1600 rpm;
  • Standard engine brake;
  • Six-speed automatic transmission with final reduction gear ratio of 5.285;
  • GVWRs of 14,050 lbs., 14,500 lbs. and 17,995 lbs.;
  • Wheelbase and body length combinations of 115 inches and 12 feet; 134 inches and 14 feet; 152 inches and 16 feet; 164 inches and 18 feet (at 14,500 and 17,995 GVWR only); and 176 inches and 20 feet (17,995 GVWR only);
  • Front and rear suspension with laminated leaf springs, shock absorber and stabilizer bar;
  • 33-gallon side-mount fuel tank (standard) and 30-gallon aft-mount fuel tank between rails (optional);
  • Optional block heater; and
  • Five exterior paint colors.
  • Sterling has established a website for the 360 at www.betterallaroundtruck.com.