Sterling is defying the current economic trends, with the brand continuing to exceed sales expectations in recent months.
Sterling sales for first quarter have increased when compared to the same period last year, achieving an exceptional result for Sterling in its 10-year Australian history.
Customers have maintained their keen interest in the brand as it provides an investment opportunity and value for money.
Overall year-to-date sales are up over 2008 – and that’s against a lower market in 2009.
The brand remains popular with fleet buyers, but it’s been owner-driver operators who’ve made up the bulk of Sterling purchases so far in 2009 with the tough HX9500 MBE400 leading the charge.
Daimler Trucks Senior Executive Carlo Beltrame said the strong sales activity was testament to the market’s respect for Sterling as “a great value-for-money truck”.
“Sterling has always been regarded as a rugged and versatile workhorse, so we were confident there would be strong interest in the truck following the announcement that the brand is being transitioned into an expanded Freightliner range,” Mr Beltrame said.
“However, even we have been surprised and delighted at the sales activity we’re recording,” he said.
“It’s a clear indication that the market not only sees value in the product but understands how committed we are to supporting Sterling buyers into the future.”
Mercedes-Benz Australia/Pacific has committed to provide Sterling customers with service and parts support at current levels for the next ten years and beyond across Australia and New Zealand.
Mr Beltrame said the company was progressing with its global partners on the new Freightliners to replace the rugged Sterling line-up.
We’re working on a product range that will satisfy our loyal Sterling base while also attracting new customers,” he said.
“We are building on new platforms and extensions of our existing platforms for the Australian market. That’s a very exciting project for us.”
Sterling vehicles featured at the 2009 Brisbane Truck and Machinery Show include a HX7500 10x4, powered by a 315hp Cummins ISC through an Allison automated transmission, plus a HX9500 6x4 with a 525hp Detroit Diesel S60 EGR mated to an 18-speed Autoshift transmission with Smartshift paddle control.