REDFORD, Mich. — In an effort to optimize the fuel economy of its trucks, Sterling has made the Eaton UltraShift Highway Value (HV) automated transmission available on all Acterra trucks.

“Fuel economy is more important than ever to our customers,” said Richard Shearing, manager of product strategy for Sterling Trucks. “By partnering with Eaton to include its UltraShift HV in our popular Acterra model, we are providing enhanced fuel efficiency combined with the strength and drivability expected from our trucks.”

A third-party study using the TMC/SAE Type III fuel economy test, showed the UltraShift HV can deliver 6-19% better fuel mileage in urban duty cycles than a conventional automatic. The UltraShift HV is designed for Class 6 and 7 trucks. It combines the architecture of a traditional six-speed with automated shifting logic. It can handle torque loads of up to 660 lb.-ft. and loads of up to 33,000 lbs gross.

It also features ‘Hill Assist,’ which minimizes rollback on grades of up to 10% while the driver transitions from the brake pedal to the throttle. Eaton claims the transmission also delivers maintenance savings, as it requires no scheduled maintenance for 500,000 miles. The transmission also does not require an external transmission cooler, which improves reliability.

“With the UltraShift HV installed in the Acterra, our customers get the best of all worlds. Better fuel economy, enhanced safety and lower maintenance, all backed by Sterling’s extensive dealer network and award-winning customer service,” Shearing said.