Lester M. Sears was the gentleman who believed it could be wise idea to modify the farm tractor for use by industry more than 80 years ago. He created the "Model L," and even though it can seem quite outdated at the present, it was packed with new ideas. The machine changed and transformed the materials handling business.
Lester's initial truck provided innovations which have become standard these days in the forklift industry. Among these key features comprise: rear-wheel steering, wheel drive, hydraulic lifting and tilting and equal reverse and high-speed forward gears.
In 1965 the business was acquired by Caterpillar and Lester began "Towmotor" and then started CAT Forklifts. With the same commitment to sensible solutions, commitment to exceptional reliability and new ideas, CAT enjoys thinking that they are direct descendants of Lester's. The Model L was very durable and efficient that the prototype worked hard for over 30 years prior to finally retiring.
Caterpillar formed a joint venture during the year 1992 with MHI Ltd. or Mitsubishi Heavy Industries. They brought together financial and marketing strengths and technological strengths in the manufacturing of material handling machines. The company has had their head office within Almere, the Netherlands ever since that time.
At present, CAT Forklifts are amongst the best-built in the business. These equipment come in LPG, diesel, electric counter balanced units and gasoline engines. The company also makes a complete series of warehouse equipment. The local CAT dealers are amongst the very best within the business and offer more than 80 years of relevant experience.
The RTCH is a specially designed rough terrain vehicle which can operate in as much as 5 feet of sea water and uses 4-wheel drive. This model can function on soft soil locations like unprepared beaches. The RTCH can handle the 8 foot wide and 20 to 40 foot long containers.