{"id":26828,"date":"2019-11-05T09:38:54","date_gmt":"2019-11-04T23:38:54","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.machines4u.com.au\/mag\/?p=26828"},"modified":"2022-03-29T13:23:59","modified_gmt":"2022-03-29T03:23:59","slug":"caterpillar-launch-new-innovative-wheel-loaders-at-perth-event","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.machines4u.com.au\/mag\/caterpillar-launch-new-innovative-wheel-loaders-at-perth-event\/","title":{"rendered":"Caterpillar Launch New Innovative Wheel Loaders At Perth Event"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Caterpillar has unveiled their new XE range of wheel loaders, boasting innovative new features, improved fuel efficiency and performance.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Load and Haul event, hosted by local WA and NSW Caterpillar dealer WesTrac, took place at the WA Bluemetal Quarries facility in Whitby on October 31st and featured demonstrations of the new Cat 972M XE and 988K XE wheel loaders.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Machines4U were invited to attend the event and had the opportunity to speak to WesTrac CEO Jarvas Croome, WesTrac General Manager of Construction Cameron Callaway, and Caterpillar Global Construction &amp; Infrastructure Manager Ranil Tennakoon about these new machines.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In this article:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">WesTrac &amp; Caterpillar\u2019s Load &amp; Haul event coverage<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A glimpse of Caterpillar&#8217;s wheel loader history<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The new XE Series wheel loaders<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<hr \/>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Launch<\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_26845\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-26845\" style=\"width: 1000px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-26845 size-full\" src=\"\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/launch-image2.jpg\" alt=\"Caterpillar \/ WesTrac Load &amp; Haul Event\" width=\"1000\" height=\"562\" srcset=\"https:\/\/magmedia.machines4u.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/05090545\/launch-image2.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/magmedia.machines4u.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/05090545\/launch-image2-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/magmedia.machines4u.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/05090545\/launch-image2-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/magmedia.machines4u.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/05090545\/launch-image2-500x281.jpg 500w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-26845\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"><em>The launch hosted over 200 attendees at Quarry Farm in Perth, WA. Photo courtesy of Andre Chang-Fane\/WesTrac<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tucked away at Quarry Farm, south of Perth, Caterpillar showcased a wide range of their machinery. Not only the brand new wheel loaders, but also an impressive lineup and display of the 6015B hydraulic shovel, the 745 and 755F articulated dump trucks, and a cameo of the Piacentini Panther low loader. The showcase was smooth, well timed and well coordinated.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With more than 200 attendees, it was the first Caterpillar event of its kind in Australia. Jarvas Croome, WesTrac CEO, said the event took a lot of planning and was a great opportunity for both WesTrac and Caterpillar.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u201cIt&#8217;s always a busy time of year, particularly when you organise a massive event like this, but our staff love the opportunity to put on a showcase like this. To work with dealers across Australia and with Caterpillar to really highlight the product that we&#8217;ve got available.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u201cWe are delighted to be able to host such an important event on behalf of Caterpillar and welcome the interest and input of [the] industry,\u201d Jarvas said.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A Glimpse of History<\/span><\/h3>\n<figure id=\"attachment_26841\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-26841\" style=\"width: 1024px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-26841 size-large\" src=\"\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/988-Model-Wheel-Loader-Lineup-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Caterpillar 988 model wheel loaders lined up \" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" srcset=\"https:\/\/magmedia.machines4u.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/05090536\/988-Model-Wheel-Loader-Lineup-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/magmedia.machines4u.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/05090536\/988-Model-Wheel-Loader-Lineup-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/magmedia.machines4u.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/05090536\/988-Model-Wheel-Loader-Lineup-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/magmedia.machines4u.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/05090536\/988-Model-Wheel-Loader-Lineup-500x333.jpg 500w, https:\/\/magmedia.machines4u.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/05090536\/988-Model-Wheel-Loader-Lineup-360x240.jpg 360w, https:\/\/magmedia.machines4u.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/05090536\/988-Model-Wheel-Loader-Lineup.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-26841\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"><em>50 years of Caterpillar wheel loader ingenuity. From left to right: the Caterpillar 988B, 988F, 988G, 988H and 988K XE. Photo: Machines4U<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A really rare and unique sight of the showcase was a lineup of the 988 model wheel loaders, including the 988B, 988F, 988G, 988H and 988K XE. These machines showcased over 50 years of Caterpillar engineering, design and evolution, and was an incredible sight.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u201cIt&#8217;s not every day you&#8217;ll see a machine [988B] that close on 45 years old, still operating. And that&#8217;s one of the cool things that people quite often don&#8217;t realise, is that we have so many machines that are 20, 30, 40 years old, still running. You can still get parts for them, you can maintain them. And that&#8217;s the real cool thing about the Caterpillar product. It&#8217;s designed to be reused, upgraded, and maintained. You can keep it running for 20, 30, 40 years. There&#8217;s not many products out there today that can do that,\u201d said Jarvas.<\/span><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The New XE Series Wheel Loaders<\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_26842\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-26842\" style=\"width: 1000px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-26842 size-full\" src=\"\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/972M-and-988K-XE-wheel-loaders2.jpg\" alt=\"972M XE &amp; 988K XE Wheel Loaders\" width=\"1000\" height=\"562\" srcset=\"https:\/\/magmedia.machines4u.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/05090537\/972M-and-988K-XE-wheel-loaders2.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/magmedia.machines4u.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/05090537\/972M-and-988K-XE-wheel-loaders2-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/magmedia.machines4u.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/05090537\/972M-and-988K-XE-wheel-loaders2-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/magmedia.machines4u.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/05090537\/972M-and-988K-XE-wheel-loaders2-500x281.jpg 500w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-26842\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"><em>The 972M XE and the 988K XE wheel loaders. Photo courtesy of Andre Chang-Fane\/WesTrac<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">After the wheel loader lineup, it was time to see the new range.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The XE premium wheel loader range is based on popular predecessor models and features improved performance, productivity and efficiency. They are ideal for construction, earthmoving and smaller mining operations. They\u2019re powerful machines that host a wide range of new and improved features.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Jarvas Croome, WesTrac CEO, says these wheel loaders are built to the needs of Caterpillar customers. \u201cThis is the next generation of wheel loaders. You&#8217;ve got increased operating comfort and the ability to be more productive with some automated features on board.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">He also discussed how features on new Caterpillar products are prioritised. \u201cWe\u2019re always looking for that safety benefit, that productivity benefit, the operator comfort, fuel efficiency, so Caterpillar rank these features very quickly into that sort of order,\u201d said Jarvas.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cameron Callaway, WesTrac GM agreed, \u201cThe exciting bit is we&#8217;re actually lowering the cost of the customer producing material. So that&#8217;s where it starts. It&#8217;s about what their job is. How can we make you more efficient, more effective?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u201cFrom a caterpillar perspective, it&#8217;s looking at how can we make the job safer or better for the operator,\u201d added Cameron.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">So let\u2019s take a closer look at these wheel loaders.<\/span><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">988K XE Wheel Loader<\/span><\/h3>\n<figure id=\"attachment_26843\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-26843\" style=\"width: 1024px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-26843 size-large\" src=\"\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/988K-XE-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Caterpillar 988K XE Wheel Loader\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" srcset=\"https:\/\/magmedia.machines4u.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/05090540\/988K-XE-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/magmedia.machines4u.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/05090540\/988K-XE-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/magmedia.machines4u.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/05090540\/988K-XE-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/magmedia.machines4u.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/05090540\/988K-XE-500x333.jpg 500w, https:\/\/magmedia.machines4u.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/05090540\/988K-XE-360x240.jpg 360w, https:\/\/magmedia.machines4u.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/05090540\/988K-XE.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-26843\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"><em>The 988K XE wheel loader was put to work during the showcase. Photo: Machines4U\u00a0<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The new 988K XE wheel loader is ideal for those demanding job sites where fuel efficiency impacts the bottom line. Featuring an electronic drivetrain, the 988K XE is truly a unique piece of machinery.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ranil Tennakoon, Caterpillar Global Construction &amp; Infrastructure Manager, says the electric drivetrain is truly the standout feature.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u201cThe 988K XE&#8217;s moved to what we call electrification. So, we&#8217;ve got rid of the transmission of the torque converter and replaced it with a generator and a motor. So, what that does is it reduces the amount of fuel we run through the engine, and it gives us constant speed. We don&#8217;t have gears running all through it, they\u2019re virtual gears that are controlled through the joysticks,\u201d said Ranil.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Another standout feature of the XE wheel loaders is the savings on fuel, a knock-on effect of the electric drivetrain.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u201cSo what you see on the XE range is really a lot of it&#8217;s about the fuel. So on the 988, you&#8217;ll use 25 to 30% less fuel and have up to 49% greater efficiency, depending on the application. So that&#8217;s the real difference, right? For the operator, it&#8217;s more comfortable. They&#8217;ve got more technology to use with less fatigue and greater visibility. It also provides greater productivity for the owner of the machines,\u201d said Ranil.<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><b>988K XE Features<\/b><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">High-efficiency electric drive system<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">High production in all loading applications<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Switched reluctance (SR) technology<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Deluxe operator seat with air suspension, high-back design &amp; contoured cushions\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>988K XE Test Drive<\/b><\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_26840\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-26840\" style=\"width: 1024px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-26840 size-large\" src=\"\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Lou-Test-Driving-988K-XE-Wheel-Loader-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Louise drives 988K XE wheel loader\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" srcset=\"https:\/\/magmedia.machines4u.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/05090533\/Lou-Test-Driving-988K-XE-Wheel-Loader-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/magmedia.machines4u.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/05090533\/Lou-Test-Driving-988K-XE-Wheel-Loader-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/magmedia.machines4u.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/05090533\/Lou-Test-Driving-988K-XE-Wheel-Loader-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/magmedia.machines4u.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/05090533\/Lou-Test-Driving-988K-XE-Wheel-Loader-500x333.jpg 500w, https:\/\/magmedia.machines4u.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/05090533\/Lou-Test-Driving-988K-XE-Wheel-Loader-360x240.jpg 360w, https:\/\/magmedia.machines4u.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/05090533\/Lou-Test-Driving-988K-XE-Wheel-Loader.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-26840\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"><em>I had the opportunity to drive this new machine. So of course I gave it a go! Photo: Machines4U\u00a0<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While at the event, Machines4U had the opportunity to take the 988K XE out for a test drive. So, this journalist got behind the wheel and managed to easily navigate the controls.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What did I think? The cab is spacious, the controls are all very easy to reach, the pedals are responsive and well-placed, and the machine itself offered a fairly smooth ride. The seat was also ultra-comfortable\u2014if only I could have one at my office desk!<\/span><\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_26848\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-26848\" style=\"width: 1000px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-26848 size-full\" src=\"\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/988K-XE-interior-cab.jpg\" alt=\"Interior of the 988K XE wheel loader\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" srcset=\"https:\/\/magmedia.machines4u.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/05090552\/988K-XE-interior-cab.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/magmedia.machines4u.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/05090552\/988K-XE-interior-cab-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/magmedia.machines4u.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/05090552\/988K-XE-interior-cab-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/magmedia.machines4u.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/05090552\/988K-XE-interior-cab-500x334.jpg 500w, https:\/\/magmedia.machines4u.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/05090552\/988K-XE-interior-cab-360x240.jpg 360w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-26848\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"><em>The interior of the 988K XE cab was spacious and comfortable. Photo courtesy of Andre Chang-Fane\/WesTrac<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h4><b>988K XE Specs &#8211; Standard Model &amp; Lift<\/b><\/h4>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><b>Maximum Gross Power (ISO)<\/b><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">580 HP (432 kW)<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><b>Engine<\/b><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cat C18 ACERT<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><b>Transmission<\/b><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cat switched reluctance electric drive<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">4F \/ 3R<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><b>Operating Weight<\/b><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">52,781 kg<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><b>Reach at Maximum Lift<\/b><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2074 mm (standard), 2130 mm (high)<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><b>Bucket Capacity Range<\/b><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">4.7 &#8211; 13 m<\/span><sup><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3<\/span><\/sup><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><b>Breakout Force<\/b><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">437 kN (general purpose bucket, straight edge)<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><b>Static Tipping Load (Straight, Rigid Tyre)<\/b><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">36,029 kg<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><b>Static Tipping Load (Full Turn, Articulated 35 Degrees, Rigid Tyre)<\/b><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">32,325 kg<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<hr \/>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">972M XE Wheel Loader<\/span><\/h3>\n<figure id=\"attachment_26847\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-26847\" style=\"width: 1024px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-26847 size-large\" src=\"\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/972M-XE-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Caterpillar 972M XE wheel loader\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" srcset=\"https:\/\/magmedia.machines4u.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/05090550\/972M-XE-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/magmedia.machines4u.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/05090550\/972M-XE-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/magmedia.machines4u.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/05090550\/972M-XE-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/magmedia.machines4u.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/05090550\/972M-XE-500x333.jpg 500w, https:\/\/magmedia.machines4u.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/05090550\/972M-XE-360x240.jpg 360w, https:\/\/magmedia.machines4u.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/05090550\/972M-XE.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-26847\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"><em>The 972M XE showcased at the Load and Haul event at Quarry Farm, Perth WA. Photo: Machines4U<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The 972M XE wheel loader, while smaller than the 988K XE, offers decent power, smooth shifts, fast acceleration and speed on grade. It\u2019s ideal for quarry and mining operations where steeper grades and tighter loading areas are common. Its anti-rollback technology also makes for a safer worksite.<\/span><\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_26846\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-26846\" style=\"width: 1024px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-26846 size-large\" src=\"\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/972M-XE-Wheel-Loader-Bucket-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"972M XE wheel loader\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" srcset=\"https:\/\/magmedia.machines4u.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/05090548\/972M-XE-Wheel-Loader-Bucket-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/magmedia.machines4u.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/05090548\/972M-XE-Wheel-Loader-Bucket-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/magmedia.machines4u.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/05090548\/972M-XE-Wheel-Loader-Bucket-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/magmedia.machines4u.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/05090548\/972M-XE-Wheel-Loader-Bucket-500x333.jpg 500w, https:\/\/magmedia.machines4u.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/05090548\/972M-XE-Wheel-Loader-Bucket-360x240.jpg 360w, https:\/\/magmedia.machines4u.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/05090548\/972M-XE-Wheel-Loader-Bucket.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-26846\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"><em>The 972M loaded and ready. Photo: Machines4U<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ranil said one of the big features for the 972M XE is the continuous variable transmission, which is the core of many other performance improvements.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u201cThe 972M XE has what we call the CVT, continuous variable transmission. So you have a smooth gear change that\u2019s constant. And what it does is gives speed on grade as well as better abilities for the operator. You don&#8217;t have that jerkiness moving up and down, it provides greater productivity,\u201d said Ranil.<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><b>972M XE Features<\/b><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Continuous variable transmission (CVT)\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Differential locks for greater traction<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Wider payload range thanks to the dual accumulator system<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Advanced powertrain<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Real-time information from Cat Link<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h4><b>972M XE Specs &#8211; Standard Model &amp; Lift<\/b><\/h4>\n<table style=\"width: 100%; height: 662px;\">\n<tbody>\n<tr style=\"height: 64px;\">\n<td style=\"height: 64px;\">\n<p><b>Maximum Net Power (ISO)<\/b><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td style=\"height: 64px;\">\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">311 HP (232 kW)<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 64px;\">\n<td style=\"height: 64px;\">\n<p><b>Engine<\/b><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td style=\"height: 64px;\">\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cat C9.3<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 64px;\">\n<td style=\"height: 64px;\">\n<p><b>Transmission<\/b><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td style=\"height: 64px;\">\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">4F \/ 3R (virtual gears)<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 64px;\">\n<td style=\"height: 64px;\">\n<p><b>Operating Weight<\/b><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td style=\"height: 64px;\">\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">24,896 kg<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 92px;\">\n<td style=\"height: 92px;\">\n<p><b>Hinge Pin Height at Maximum Lift<\/b><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td style=\"height: 92px;\">\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">4458 mm (standard), 4793 mm (high)<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 66px;\">\n<td style=\"height: 66px;\">\n<p><b>Bucket Capacity Range<\/b><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td style=\"height: 66px;\">\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3.20 &#8211; 9.94 m<\/span><sup><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3<\/span><\/sup><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 64px;\">\n<td style=\"height: 64px;\">\n<p><b>Breakout Force<\/b><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td style=\"height: 64px;\">\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">196 kN<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 92px;\">\n<td style=\"height: 92px;\">\n<p><b>Static Tipping Load (Full 37-degree turn with tyre deflection)<\/b><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td style=\"height: 92px;\">\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">16,164 kg<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 92px;\">\n<td style=\"height: 92px;\">\n<p><b>Static Tipping Load (Full 37-degree turn with no tyre deflection)<\/b><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td style=\"height: 92px;\">\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">17,421 kg<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Overall, Caterpillar are certainly leaders in capital equipment design and innovation, which is obvious by these latest XE wheel loaders. What do you think of the new models? Let us know in the comments below.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Looking for a new or used Caterpillar wheel loader? <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.machines4u.com.au\/browse\/construction-equipment\/loaders-59\/wheeled-loader-817\/caterpillar\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Find them here<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Caterpillar has unveiled their new XE range of wheel loaders, boasting innovative new features, improved fuel efficiency and performance. The Load and Haul event, hosted by local WA and NSW Caterpillar dealer WesTrac, took place at the WA Bluemetal Quarries facility in Whitby on October 31st and featured demonstrations of the new Cat 972M XE [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":28,"featured_media":26844,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[7838,35,7843],"tags":[22586,123,488],"yst_prominent_words":[],"class_list":["post-26828","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-construction","category-featured","category-mining","tag-caterpillar-wheel-loader","tag-construction","tag-mining"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.machines4u.com.au\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/26828","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.machines4u.com.au\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.machines4u.com.au\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.machines4u.com.au\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/28"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.machines4u.com.au\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=26828"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/www.machines4u.com.au\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/26828\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":28218,"href":"https:\/\/www.machines4u.com.au\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/26828\/revisions\/28218"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.machines4u.com.au\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/26844"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.machines4u.com.au\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=26828"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.machines4u.com.au\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=26828"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.machines4u.com.au\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=26828"},{"taxonomy":"yst_prominent_words","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.machines4u.com.au\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/yst_prominent_words?post=26828"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}