Caterpillar Inc. introduced a variety of new equipment, including the 988K XE electric-drive wheel loader, next-generation excavators, Yellowmark-brand budget replacement parts and the company’s first-ever utility vehicles.
The new Cat 988K XE is the first wheel loader offered by Caterpillar with an electric-drive system. The company says it delivers 25-percent greater overall efficiency and up to 10-percent more productivity in load-and-carry applications than its standard 988K model.
The Cat 988K XE offers a range of bucket capacities from 6.2 to 17 cu. yd. Standard and high-lift payload for the loader reaches 12.5 tons when working with face material and 16 tons with loose material.
Three next-generation 20-ton size class excavators from Caterpillar – the 320 GC, 320 and 323 – are designed to increase operating efficiency, lower fuel and maintenance costs, and improve operator comfort compared to previous models.
It is the first major overhaul of the company’s hydraulic excavator line in 25 years, and many of the new innovations may soon find their way to Cat’s larger models.
Caterpillar announced plans to introduce a new tier of repair and replacement parts to support small- and medium-sized equipment. Branded as Yellowmark, the parts will offer an alternative for customers looking for reliable, value-priced parts, conveniently available from their local Cat dealer.
Yellowmark parts will encompass and expand on Cat’s Classic parts line, and will be introduced throughout 2018. They will initially include repair and replacement parts, while future new parts introductions will also include maintenance and wear parts.
Caterpillar also announced plans to enter the utility vehicle market with the introduction of the CUV82 and CUV102D models. The company has entered into a manufacturing and supply agreement with Textron Specialized Vehicles Inc., and will offer UTV models sold through participating Cat dealerships starting in 2018.
Featuring a rugged steel cargo bed, the new UTVs can handle up to 1,000 lb. of material and tools, and they offer 2,000-lb. towing capacity.