Introducing the new Cat Small Wheel Loader

Introducing the new Cat Small Wheel Loader with an all new cab, joystick control, lots of new fuel saving technology, increased service hours and safety features.

Peter Haddock visited Desford to learn more from Cat product expert Sehraan Hussain, and it all started in the spacious new cab with a new windscreen, levers, and tablet but no steering wheel.

Sehraan: "Our new Small Wheel Loader range comes off the back of the very well established M Series Platform. But for this next generation, we have really focused on technology that supports the operator from a newly designed cab that offers greater visibility, enhanced by a 360 birdseye camera system. 

"As all wheel loader owners know, fuel and tyres are two of the largest costs of ownership. This is why we have introduced new auto features that save on tyre wear and fuel without any input from the operator, as they work behind the scenes using the latest sensor technology.

"Essentially, the features detect tyre slip and apply the right wheel torque to optimise performance for all tasks. This is particularly useful when dropping into a pile, as you always get the optimal traction on the machine when you need it the most.

"In addition, if the machine is idling, it will now automatically drop to 800 rpm to save fuel, powering up instantly when required. We have even added a single pedal mode for utility applications that allows the operator to have complete control of the ground speed using the right foot pedal, independent of whatever you've set your engine speed.

"All these additional features will combine with extended servicing hours thanks to introducing new filters, reducing the overall cost of ownership."

Even with the move to joystick control, the new machine will still allow operators to travel up to 25mph, as Sehraan explained: "Because the joysticks use our precision control system, they deliver forced feedback to the operator.

"So the faster the machine travels, the more resistance you get and the stiffer the controls become. And in addition to the joysticks, operators will now have access to new single-axis levers that support lifting, utility and auxiliary functions."

Talking to operator Simon Hill about the new machine, he added: "Once you get used to the joystick control, it's a lot less tiring, and you are sitting in a much more comfortable position in the seat.

"The new curved glass also gives you much better coverage for the windscreen wipers, and the addition of glass panels next to your feet on either side of the machine gives you better visibility, aided by the 360 camera."

Peter added: “And if the operator leaves the seat for any reason. The machine will now automatically come to a stop and apply the break with an audible alarm, thanks to a new safety feature, which is great, especially if an operator is unwell.

“There is certainly a lot more to the new range, which is powered by the 125kW Cat C7.1 engine, and of course, there are all the options that support Ag, Waste and Aggregate applications.”