The Caterpillar wheeled excavator models appear remarkably well-maintained despite their 39-year age

In 1984, the product line was established through collaboration between Caterpillar, Eder, and Zeppelin Baumaschinen, introducing four initial models. After eight years, the lineup transitioned into a wholly Cat-managed offering, complete with a dedicated wheel excavator team.

“Providing swift maneuverability both within and between job sites, without causing ground damage, the wheel excavator emerged as a transformative solution for contractors operating in densely populated regions and established infrastructure markets,” noted Brian Abbott, Vice President of Product Management for Cat’s Excavation Division.

“Distinguished by its innovative hydraulic layout, which diverges from conventional excavators, these machines extend their functionality beyond digging to encompass a variety of hydraulic work tools, thus enhancing their adaptability for diverse applications.”

In the present year, Cat marks a significant achievement as they manufacture the 50,000th wheeled excavator, specifically the Cat M318 Next Gen model. This accomplishment follows closely after the recognition of the first 25,000 units just 11 years ago.

In a ceremony conducted on June 20 at the Cat establishment in Grenoble, France, delegates from Cat and Zeppelin jointly bestowed the commemorative 50,000th Cat M318 to representatives of the longstanding customer, Wolff & Müller Holding GmbH & Co.

Established in 1936 and headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany, the company possesses a fleet of over 100 Cat machines dedicated to diverse applications, such as structural and industrial construction, civil engineering, steel construction, building renovation, road construction, and foundation work.

During the event, Torsten Schuckert, the Head of the Logistics Service Unit, and Siegfried Cammerer, the Manager of Machine and Device Technology Service Unit Logistics at Wolff & Müller, were in attendance to receive the new equipment.

“We hold great satisfaction in our enduring partnership with Zeppelin and Caterpillar, which has endured for nearly 70 years and continues to flourish,” Schuckert expressed. “The foundation for our strong collaboration lies not only in the innovative machine technology but also in the exceptional nationwide service and, most importantly, the respectful and personable interactions we share.”

Upon its initial introduction, the new solution found favor primarily among European and South Korean customers. As time has progressed, Cat’s wheeled excavators have garnered increasing popularity on a global scale.

Commencing with a mere four models, Cat’s array of wheeled excavators has grown significantly to encompass a total of eight models (ranging from Cat M314 to M322) tailored to markets with more stringent emission regulations. Additionally, there’s one model (M315 GC) specifically crafted for the Chinese market, three models (M315 to M320D2) catering to regions with lower emissions standards, the M323F model customized for railroad applications, and four materials handlers (MH3022 to MH3040) in the lineup.

Regarded as the flagship within the lineup due to its dimensions and performance, the M318 excels in maneuvering within confined spaces. This model not only possesses the flexibility to operate in limited areas but also holds the potential to excel on more extensive job sites.

Cat reports that recent enhancements have led to notable improvements in fuel efficiency, swing torque, visibility, and maintenance cost reduction. Furthermore, these machines now provide a comprehensive range of Cat technologies, encompassing Cat Grade, Cat Payload, and Cat E-Fence functionalities.