Lester M. Sears was the gentleman who believed it might be wise idea to modify the farm tractor for use by industry over 80 years ago. He created the "Model L," and even though it could look quite obsolete at the moment, it was packed with new ideas. The equipment transformed and changed the materials handling industry.
Lester's initial truck offered innovations which have become standard these days in the forklift industry. Several of these key features comprise: rear-wheel steering, wheel drive, equal reverse and high-speed forward gears, and hydraulic lifting and tilting.
Lester started the "Towmotor" and then started CAT Lift Trucks, after being acquired by Caterpillar during the year 1965. With the same dedication to practical solutions, commitment to extraordinary reliability and new ideas, CAT enjoys thinking that they are Lester's direct descendants. The Model L was so durable and efficient that the model worked hard for over 30 years before finally retiring.
Caterpillar formed a joint venture in 1992 with MHI Ltd. or Mitsubishi Heavy Industries. They brought together financial and marketing strengths and technological strengths in the manufacturing of material handling machinery. The corporation has had their head office in Almere, the Netherlands ever since that time.
Presently, CAT Forklifts are amongst the best-built in the industry. These machines are available in diesel, LPG, electric counter balanced models and gasoline engines. The company also manufactures an entire series of warehouse machines. The local CAT dealers are among the very best in the business and offer over 80 years of pertinent experience.
The specially designed RTCH rough terrain vehicle can operate in up to 5 feet of sea water. This model is capable of functioning on soft soil places like for instance unprepared beaches. The RTCH can handle the 8 foot wide and 20 to 40 foot long containers.