INDIANAPOLIS, IN. — Freightliner wants to "get rid of the finger pointing" that happens between upfitters and the OEM when something goes wrong with one of their trucks.

Freightliner if hoping to save a few strained fingers with a new program called "Framworks" for truck equipment manufacturers (TEMS), officially launched today at the Work Truck Show.

Freightliner is at the end of a five year strategy in strengthening the brand in the vocational side , said David Hames, general manager, marketing and strategy Freightliner. Through that process, Hames said that they realized the TEMS needed to be treated as partners, as an extension of their manufacturing process.

The program includes specific training on Freightliner chassis for upfitters to help them understand the details that will help them save time later on. They'll also be provided 3D renderings from Freightliner engineering to help help improve accuracy of component placement, a "visibility package" so TEMS can plan their time and delivery process, technical vehicle sales training, and wholesale and retail finance support through Daimler Truck Financial. TEMS will also have the option to participate in joint marketing activities.

Much of what is included in the Frameworks program are services that Freightliner already offers, but now simply packaged together. Hames said they'll be adding features over time.

"If we know what the upfit is going to be, we can minimize concerns and problems down the road," Hames commented. When something goes wrong, the end-user doesn't want to feel like he's dealing with two companies. Which is where the "finger-pointing" comes in.

The program, which starts today, is available to all upfitters. You can find out more here.