Caterpillar will shift design and production of its smallest hydraulic excavators to Caterpillar facilities beginning in 2018 as a six-year strategic alliance with Wacker Neuson is phased out.

Caterpillar will focus on growing its global mini excavator business as it leverages existing facilities and design teams to deliver cost effective and efficient new machines weighing less than three tons, the company said.

Caterpillar’s Building Construction Products Division will design and manufacture the new machines, building on the proven attributes of the larger Cat mini excavators. Five of the current models (301.4C, 301.7D, 301.7D CR, 302.2D and 302.4D) manufactured by Wacker Neuson will be phased out by mid-2018, and the 302.7D CR will be phased out by the end of 2019. The 300.9D will also be phased out by the end of 2019 or later if mutually agreed upon by both parties.

“Wacker Neuson has been an excellent alliance partner, providing Caterpillar high quality mini excavators in this smaller size class for the past several years,” said Korey Coon, general manager of the mini hydraulic excavator and small track-type tractor product lines. “The market for these products has grown, and we believe that internally designing, manufacturing and distributing these excavators will provide an even higher value to our customers, dealers and shareholders.”

Spare parts availability, technical support and warranty for current models will continue as Caterpillar and Wacker Neuson work together going forward. Other products sold and serviced by Wacker Neuson at Cat dealers and rental stores will not be affected.

Photo: Caterpillar