Sterling Truck Corp. announced Tuesday, June 12, that it continues to expand its growing light commercial vehicle line with a new model. The new Class 3 Sterling 360 is the lightest product in Sterling’s full range of Class 3-8 trucks, which the company says reinforces its status as a one-stop provider of a full-range of commercial vehicles. Sterling also introduced a number of product enhancements for its 2008 model year 360 trucks.
The new Class 3 360, currently available for order, will be available at dealerships in fall 2007; and that every 2008 model year 360 — Class 3, 4 and 5 — will be rolling off the line with several new product enhancements, including increased horsepower, a lowered chassis, standard cruise control and more.
“Along with the new Sterling Bullet, our versatile light-duty and mid-range vehicles were developed for a wide range of applications, including pickup and delivery, construction, landscaping and more,” says Matthew Stevenson, director of light commercial vehicles for Redford, Mich.-based Sterling Truck Corp.
Sterling says the Class 3 360 — with a gross vehicle weight rating of 12,500 lbs. — is an ideal tool for businesses that don’t require the capacity of a Class 4 or 5 truck. And just because the Class 3 model is light on weight doesn’t mean it’s light on features, according to the company; it offers best-in-class maneuverability, a roomy and comfortable cab, and industry-leading fuel economy.
The Class 3 model also features an onboard diagnostics system (OBD-II) designed to provide a universal inspection and diagnosis method to be sure the vehicle is performing correctly and to U.S. Environmental Protection Agency emissions standards; this feature also will be available on 2008 Class 4 and 5 360 trucks. All 2008 model year 360 trucks also will feature a number of other product enhancements developed to improve productivity as well as driver comfort.
Several improvements in the 360’s engine are being introduced as a result of the changes made to comply with EPA’s 2007 emissions standards. The new diesel particulate filter — a requirement for all 2008 model year trucks — has been tested and utilized in the Japanese market for several years, helping to ensure its reliability.
The truck’s compact design allows for fewer disturbances during body installation and also safeguards the 360’s ground clearance. The engine changes also resulted in increased power, upgrading the 360’s engine from 175 to 185 hp. Additionally, due to the improved cooling system and a change in frame height, the 360’s chassis could be lowered two inches, making it easier for operators to load and unload the vehicle.
