Cat Unveils 980 GC Wheel Loader
Caterpillar has introduced the 980 GC, a new 65,610-pound medium wheel loader delivering 420 horsepower, expanding its range of affordable and lower-spec equipment. The machine is designed for heavy-duty tasks such as material movement, truck loading, and other construction operations, while offering impressive fuel economy.

It features an on-demand fan, load-sensing hydraulics, intuitive controls, and Cats Performance Series buckets. Other GC models include the 950 GC, 966 GC and 988 GC. The company has also released 10 next-generation medium wheel loaders from the 42,461-pound 950 to the 78,264-pound 982, including XE variants.

Weve built the new 980 GC on a long legacy of high performance and highly reliable wheel loaders with proven components and integrated Cat machine systems, said Frank Stadelmann, Global Product Application Specialist at Caterpillar. The loaders simple user interface, intuitive controls and excellent visibility make for comfortable and efficient operation, even with less-experienced operators. New features to this model, like our Engine Idle Management System (EIMS), minimise idle rpm and fuel consumption to help deliver low owning and operating costs.

The 980 GC is powered by Cats C13 engine, which uses a combination of diesel oxidation catalyst, selective catalytic reduction and ammonia oxidation catalyst to meet Tier 4 Final emissions standards. Cat claims the Clean Emissions Module works in the background without affecting productivity.

EIMS, Auto Engine Idle Shutdown, a variable speed fan and load-sensing hydraulics contribute to lower fuel use and reduced sound levels. Its automatic planetary powershift transmission ensures durability and long service life. With four forward and reverse speeds and a top speed of 24.7 mph, the loader also includes an Electronic Clutch Pressure Control (ECPC) system for smooth shifting in all operating conditions.