Today’s compact radius Cat 308 CR and 309 CR plus the 310 mini hydraulic excavators are now powered by the new Cat C2.8 engine, offering the same ratings and performance as the previous Cat C3.3B power unit. Meeting U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final and Stage V emissions standards, the C2.8 features a “fit for life” diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) and diesel particulate filter (DPF) that requires no maintenance, reducing service requirements and costs.

A third auxiliary hydraulic option is available to support customers using complex hydromechanical attachments. These next gen excavators also feature a standard rearview camera to help improve operator visibility and safety while reversing the excavator. Additionally, the 310 now includes a side-view camera as standard, while the side-view camera can be optionally added to 308 CR and 309 CR machines.

The next generation 308 CR will offer an angle blade option to help with backfilling material. With Stick Steer and blade control in the right joystick, operators can control the machine like a small dozer. The option comes with dozer float to help with grading and a three-piece bolt-on cutting edge that can be inverted and reversed to extend wear life. 

These enhancements can elevate the performance of a next generation Cat mini hydraulic excavator line that introduced four industry-first features:

• Stick Steer – simplifying machine control, Cat Stick Steer System enables the operator to switch from conventional level/foot-pedal steering controls to low-effort joystick operation at the touch of a button.
• Cruise control – a standard feature minimizing operator interaction when traveling longer distances between work locations.
• Operator adjustable settings – a large touchscreen display provides intuitive machine function control and easy monitoring of critical operating parameters.

Limited edition “Centennial Grey” Cat 305 CR and 308 CR mini hydraulic excavator units will be on display at the Utility Exposition, October 7-9, and Equip Exposition, October 21-24, in Louisville, Ky. Attendees can operate the limited edition 308 CR model with angle blade inside the Cat demonstration exhibit area.

More information on the software updates for the Cat 305 CR, 308 CR, 309, CR and 310 mini hydraulic excavators can be found by contacting a Cat dealer or visiting cat.com. 

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About Caterpillar:
With 2024 sales and revenues of $64.8 billion, Caterpillar Inc. is the world’s leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, off-highway diesel and natural gas engines, industrial gas turbines and diesel-electric locomotives. For 100 years, we’ve been helping customers build a better, more sustainable world and are committed and contributing to a reduced-carbon future. Our innovative products and services, backed by our global dealer network, provide exceptional value that helps customers succeed. Caterpillar does business on every continent, principally operating through three primary segments – Construction Industries, Resource Industries and Energy & Transportation – and providing financing and related services through our Financial Products segment. Visit us at caterpillar.com or join the conversation on our social media channels at caterpillar.com/en/news/social-media.html.

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