Producing a commercial vehicle in a single location to satisfy the needs of multiple applications in a world market, cannot be realistically accomplished. Instead, Mercedes-Benz and its subsidiary, Freightliner Corporation, have adopted a strategy, characterized as multi-domestic rather than multinational, which relies on production of trucks in many locations. In this way, qualities can be offered which are in unique demand in those markets while minimizing the development effort and capitalizing on worldwide component sourcing. Presently Mercedes-Benz, including Freightliner, operates 54 truck manufacturing and assembly plants throughout the world.
As a part of, and following this strategy, Freightliner has recently launched an all new medium-duty truck program for the U.S. market, produced in an all new manufacturing plant in Cleveland, North Carolina. The present paper describes this program and its development. Refer to Fig. 1.