Ten Truck Dealers Sue Detroit Engine Maker

DETROIT February 9, 2005; The AP reported that ten truck dealers sued Detroit Diesel Corp. on Wednesday, saying the heavy-duty engine maker violated federal antitrust laws by organizing an illegal boycott and price-fixing scheme.

The lawsuit was filed in Philadelphia on behalf of dealers for Volvo Trucks Inc. and International Truck and Engine Corp. Michigan-based Detroit Diesel is owned by DaimlerChrysler AG.

The suit alleges that Detroit Diesel and its distributors boycotted International and Volvo dealers who weren't affiliated with DaimlerChrysler. The suit says Detroit Diesel refused to allow those dealers to perform major warranty repairs on Detroit Diesel engines, even if the dealers had sold the trucks originally.

A telephone message was left Wednesday with a Detroit Diesel spokesman.

Attorneys for the plaintiffs allege Detroit Diesel was trying to force International and Volvo into long-term contracts to install Detroit Diesel engines in their new trucks.

The suit also contends Detroit Diesel and its distributors agreed to increase prices for parts sold to the affected dealers.

Detroit Diesel: http://www.detroitdiesel.com