The ‘Sterling’ truck brand entered the Australian heavy duty truck market as a result of Freightliner’s 1997 acquisition of the Ford Truck business in North America.

This story documents the events that arose in Australia as a result of this overseas acquisition and presents the impact on the Australian trucking industry from a Distributor’s, Dealers’ and Customers’ perspective.

Beginning with (then) Daimler-Benz objectives for purchasing the Ford truck business, it covers the ‘Sterling’ brand origins, changes to the Australian distribution, the Australian launch, the journey of the trucks model range from Ford’s HN80 to Freightliner’s HX platforms, Dealers’ viewpoint and Customers & Drivers opinions.

Those who were involved in Sterling are encouraged to share their stories and impressions the brand left upon them. The story also recognises the brand’s Australian Management and Dealers responsible for the introduction of what was an exciting but challenging period of time in the  Australian heavy truck history.

The story caters for a wide range of audiences from Sterling employees, Dealers, Owners, Drivers and general trucking enthusiasts for many years to come.

Running Time Approx: 58mins