Cat upgrades 980, 982 wheel loaders, adding slew of standard tech features

Offering a continuous variable transmission (CVT) for the first time in the size class, a suite of standard technologies and the latest advancements to pare down on maintenance costs, the new Cat 980 XE and 982 XE bring a 10 per cent increase in productivity and fuel efficiencies of up to 35 per cent.

Caterpillar introduced the pair of new medium wheel loaders, as well as upgrades to the standard 980 and 982 this May.

The XE models cut maintenance costs by up to 25 per cent compared to the company’s M series models, with extended fluid and filter change intervals. They also eliminate downtime every 500 hours with the longer 1,000-hour service intervals. Remote software updates, meanwhile, can be scheduled around the production schedule.

On the technology front, the equipment maker has made a range of advanced features standard. Cat Payload with Assist comes from the factory on all 980 and 982 series loaders, as do Cat Autodig with Auto Set Tires, which together promote proper loading technique to significantly reduce tire slip and loading time. Cat Advanced Payload is an option, adding functionality to the bucket weighing system with features such as Lists-Management, Multitask- & Manual-Add Modes and Tip-off assist.

New stair-like steps and grabrails make it easier to access the cab. Once in-cab, Cat has introduced a new dashboard and easy-to-use high-resolution touchscreen display. A seat-mounted electrohydraulic joystick steering system provides operators precise control with minimal arm movements. The new loaders have a push-to-start system that includes Operator-ID for added security.