April 22, 2019 – Caterpillar said its electrification strategy will match the right product to the application, and a press release distributed at bauma outlined the ways the company will do this.
- Fully electric products. Featuring single or multiple non-engine electric power sources, these products are best suited for environments where eliminating emissions is key. These will be best suited for underground, indoors, urban areas, and some agricultural segments.
- Diesel-electric products. Connecting to an engine or electric generator, AC drive motor, or other source of electric power, these products are ideal for operations where using less fuel is a priority.
- Hybrid products. Working alongside an engine, power sources such as batteries, tethered or cable-powered electric systems, hydraulic accumulators, or high-speed flywheels can reduce emissions and improve efficiency.
At bauma 2019, Caterpillar visitors were also able to view the:
- D6XE dozer, the world’s first with high drive electric drive, which improves fuel efficiency up to 35%.
- 988K XE wheel loader, which features a high-efficiency electric drive system with switched reluctance technology.
- 300.9D VPS mini excavator, which produces zero emissions when connected to a remote power unit.
- 906 compact wheel loader, a concept vehicle with a fully electric drive train powered by a lithium-ion battery.
Cat said some dealers are currently adapting products to specific regional or jobsite requirements. Zeppelin, for example, has been working to develop a tethered, electrified material handler primarily for indoor use. The dealer has also adapted a Cat 302.7D CR mini excavator into a dual-power motor.