New, low cab-over-engine truck is roomy, fuel-efficient

Staff -- Logistics Management, 3/1/2006

Sterling Truck Corporation has unveiled its new, low cab-over-engine truck, the Sterling 360TM. The new design offers excellent fuel economy as well as the industry's biggest cab and outstanding maneuverability and visibility, says the manufacturer.

With more than 90 cubic feet of cab volume, the Sterling 360 comfortably seats three. The design also features an 11.75-inch distance from step to cab.

The dash-mounted gear shift allows for easy mobility inside the cab and features power and brake interlocks with an accessible override button. To ensure safety, the transmission-control interlocks require electrical power, and the service brake must be applied.

The back of both passenger seats can be used as a bench space, and all seats have fully adjustable seatbacks.

The exterior roof has a transverse channel behind the clearance and ID lamps to channel water to the sides. Runoff is diverted by the drip rail molded to the top of the windshield gasket, providing better vision under adverse weather conditions.

Popular specs include a 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; GVWRs of 14,050 lbs., 14,500 lbs., and 17,995 lbs.; and front and rear suspension with laminated leaf springs, shock absorber, and stabilizer bar.

Standard features include air conditioning, power steering, telescoping steering column, ABS brakes, power door locks, daytime running lights, back-up alarm, crush bars in doors, cold weather starting aid, and power take-off opening and drive gear. The standard exhaust brake is always engaged and comes with an electronic pad-wear sensor that alerts the driver when the brakes are worn.

Sterling Truck Corp. 1-800-STL-HELP www.BetterAllAroundTruck.com.