Starting from 2018, Caterpillar will design and produce its smallest hydraulic excavators in-house, ending an alliance with German manufacturer Wacker Neuson. 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 3 tonne. Its Building Construction Products Division will design and manufacture the new products, building on the attributes of the larger Cat mini excavators. Five of the current models the 301.4C, 301.7D, 301.7D CR, 302.2D and 302.4D manufactured by Wacker Neuson will be phased out in mid-2018. A sixth the 302.7D CR will follow at the end of 2019. The 300.9D will be phased out at the same time, or later upon mutual agreement.