Apr 1, 2009 12:00 PM

Sterling Truck Corporation announces the availability of the Eaton Fuller UltraShift Highway Value (HV) six-speed transmission as an option for all Sterling Acterra trucks.

In a study conducted by an independent third-party firm, in accordance with SAE J1526 Joint TMC/SAE Fuel Consumption In-Service Test Procedure Type III, the UltraShift HV results in urban fuel economy that is six to 19 percent more efficient than the leading conventional automatic transmission — depending on the duty cycle.

A fully automated transmission system for Class 6-7 vehicles, the UltraShift HV combines the reliability and durability of a manual Fuller six-speed transmission with automated shifting logic. Suited for pick-up and delivery, service, utility, and recovery applications, the UltraShift HV is capable of handling torque capabilities up to 660 ft.-lbs. and loads up to 33,000 pounds gross vehicle weight.

To improve on safety and flexibility, the transmission's Hill Assist feature automatically minimizes rollback and roll-forward on grades ranging from three to 10 percent while the driver transitions from brake pedal to throttle.

The transmission also offers life-cycle cost savings, with no scheduled maintenance for 500,000 miles, including filter and lube changes. UltraShift HV doesn't require an external transmission cooler, eliminating a component that could potentially break down and reducing the overall weight of the truck.

For more information, visit www.SterlingTrucks.com.