PORTLAND, Ore. — Freightliner is launching a sales program to lure Detroit Diesel heavy-duty engine purchasers who no longer have access to Series 60 engines due to market competitors.

Freightliner LLC will offer these truck customers a comprehensive incentive package for purchasing new Freightliner, Sterling or Western Star trucks equipped with Detroit Diesel Series 60 engines.

Due to the acquisition of Detroit Diesel by DaimlerChrysler, Freightliner’s parent company, Freightliner’s competitors in the North American heavy-duty truck market will soon loose the ability to offer Detroit Diesel engines in their trucks.

As a result, a number of North American customers who prefer a Detroit will either need to change their truck or their engine spec. Freightliner, Sterling and Western Star trucks will continue to offer a full line of engines for their customers.

“Our upcoming sales program will offer tremendous benefits and exciting incentives to Detroit Diesel engine buyers currently running competitor trucks,” says Jim Hebe, Freightliner LLC president and chief executive officer. “We intend to show these Detroit Diesel customers the advantages of doing business with North America’s leading heavy-duty truck manufacturer.”

Hebe did not disclose the details of the program, but said it would contain a comprehensive package of benefits that only Freightliner LLC and its DaimlerChrysler affiliates in North America can deliver. The program will be officially announced within three weeks, the company says.