Freightliner LLC announced it has initiated and is supporting a Customer Demonstration Program for dozens of heavy- and medium-duty trucks equipped with Mercedes-Benz (MBE) 4000 and 900 engines. These units, equipped with EPA ’07 compliant MBE engines, are now in the process of being delivered to nearly 20 customers.

In addition to the MBE 4000 and MBE 900, Freightliner also is set to launch a redeveloped heavy-duty Series 60 in 2007.

The EPA has been reducing diesel emissions standards for the past 30 years. The latest regulations, which take effect in 2007, demand changes in both fuel and engine technology. The new regulations will dramatically reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) by 55 percent and particulate matter (soot and ash) by 90 percent. To achieve these new emissions targets, Freightliner and Detroit Diesel are conducting aggressive testing programs, the company said.

When the MBE engines begin series production in January 2007, the MBE

4000 will have accumulated 6 million test miles and the MBE 900 will have racked up 8.5 million test miles, the company said.

For more information, visit www.freightliner.com.