Software update increases speeds, productivity for the Cat® 303.5 CR Mini Hydraulic Excavator

The 303.5 CR’s more dynamic design with quick transient speeds helps to reposition the excavator in a shorter period, limiting the time the machine is not working.

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By Caterpillar

Published: Oct 07, 2025

Highlights

  • Up to 25% increase in transient speeds compared to previous design
  • Up to 35% more productivity with faster repositioning times 
  • Update can be retrofitted to first-production next generation models
Cat® 303.5 CR Mini Excavator
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IRVING, Texas, October 7, 2025― The next generation compact radius Cat® 303.5 CR Mini Hydraulic Excavator features a significant software update designed to improve transient speeds up to 25% compared to previous 303.5 CR next gen models.

While the top end speed hasn’t changed, how the machine gets from ‘0 to 60’ has. It’s much faster from the start.

Greg Worley

Market Professional

Cat mini excavators

The 303.5 CR’s more dynamic design with quick transient speeds helps to reposition the excavator in a shorter period, limiting the time the machine is not working. This results in contractors being up to 35% more productive at the jobsite, depending on application and conditions.

The update is compatible with all next generation builds dating back to the first production models in 2021. The current software version is available on the excavator’s operating monitor, and customers can get the latest update from their Cat dealer.

Key features of the 303.5 CR include:

  • Heavy lifting and performance
    • Capable of lifting, swinging and carrying a standard 2,450 lb (1111 kg) street plate.
    • Trenching productivity and controllability of the angle blade in Stick Steer mode.
  • Comfort and industry-first features
    • Sealed and pressurized operating cab with adjustable operator settings.
    • Exclusive Cat Stick Steer joystick control to enhance machine travel and cruise control.
  • Simplified service
    • Easily accessible checkpoints from ground level and a unique tilt-up cab/canopy to reach additional service areas.
  • Compact radius swing
    • Reduces overhang when working to the side, allowing machines to deliver high performance in confined spaces.

The updates will be installed on the Cat 303.5 CR at the Utility Exposition, October 7-9, and Equip Exposition, October 21-24, in Louisville, Ky. and are available to operate.

 

 

More information on the software updates for the Cat 303.5 CR Mini Hydraulic Excavator can found by contacting a Cat dealer or visiting cat.com.

 

Cat® 303.5 CR Mini Excavator
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Cat® 303.5 CR Mini Excavator

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Cat® 303.5 CR Mini Excavator
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Cat® 303.5 CR Mini Excavator

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Cat® 303.5 CR Mini Excavator
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Cat® 303.5 CR Mini Excavator

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Cat® 303.5 CR Mini Excavator
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Cat® 303.5 CR Mini Excavator

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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

Caterpillar rolls out products and services in each of its regions at different time intervals. Although every effort is made to ensure that product information is released only after Caterpillar has received confirmation from its independent dealer network, plants, and marketing subsidiaries that products and services are available in the relevant region, editors are kindly requested to verify with a Cat dealer for product availability and specifications.

CAT, CATERPILLAR, LET’S DO THE WORK, their respective logos, “Caterpillar Corporate Yellow,” the “Power Edge” and Cat “Modern Hex” trade dress, as well as corporate and product identity used herein, are trademarks of Caterpillar and may not be used without permission.

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Press Inquiries:

Johanna Kelly
Caterpillar Trade Press Media Representative
Kelly_Johanna_L@cat.com
 
For Release: North America
Release Number: 207PR25 - October 2025




Mini Excavators

Cat® mini excavators deliver power and performance in smaller, more compact sizes to help you work in a variety of applications. Caterpillar offers a range of mini excavators from 1-10 metric tons to meet your jobsite demands. They are ideal for jobs such as landscaping, utilities, residential construction and others where space may be constrained. With exceptional digging, lifting and swing capacity, Cat mini excavators help you get jobs done faster. A spacious cab and ergonomic controls keep you working comfortably, while a variety of Cat attachments such as augers and hammers provide even more versatility.

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