Grade-A line

Sterling Truck describes its A-Line tractors as “work trucks,” and why not? Though it’s evolved as a product line, the A-Line has been a staple at less-than-truckload, food distribution, and other local day cab fleets going back to its days as the Ford AeroMax.

Available in 113- and 122-inch BBC versions, the A-Line gets new aerodynamic mirrors with smaller heads for better side and forward visibility. Bostrom’s “Freedom” seat is standard, with a longer headrest, wider suspension, and more lumbar support. And Sterling has relocated all chassis wiring to the bottom flange of the frame rail for easier body mounting.

The company also announced an industry first for the A-Line: a scroll-type compressor, like what you’d find in high-end cars except made more robust for heavy-duty use. Made by Visteon, the compressor has fewer moving parts and virtually no wear points compared to piston-type compressors. It comes with a two-year warranty. See www.sterling trucks.com or call 1-800-STL-HELP.