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November 16, 1998 9:15 AM, EST

PORTLAND, Ore. — Truck maker Freightliner Corp. said it will work with Microsoft Corp. to develop strategies for using the Internet. The effort will focus on developing electronic commerce — “e-commerce” — which is to enable Freightliner customers to make transactions on the World Wide Web.

Microsoft developed ServicePro, Freightliners’ electronic system that its dealers and service outlets use for documentation, diagnostics, parts ordering and preparation of repair orders.

James L. Hebe, president of Freightliner, said the company sought a partner that could come up with innovative solutions for using the Web. He said Microsoft is to identify opportunities for e-commerce and how best to take advantage of them.

He also said recent estimates project that business-to-business transactions via the Internet will exceed $200 billion by 2002 — eight times more than for consumer transactions.

“Freightliner intends to be on the cutting edge of Internet technologies as an essential part of our commitment to being the technology and customer support leader among truck OEMs,” Mr. Hebe said.

He said the interactive nature of the Web will allow Freightliner to personalize relationships with customers and provide immediate solutions to problems.

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