Cat Preparing ’07 Engines for Field Tests

Caterpillar said at the Mid-America Trucking Show last week that it would wrap up laboratory test work on its 2007 engine program in the next 30 days and should have field test units ready for fleets to use by the fourth quarter this year. By 2005, Caterpillar expects to be selling 2007-compliant models to the industry.

“By mid 2005, we expect to provide engines that meet the 2007 regulations for sale to customers,” said Jim McReynolds, GM for Cat’s on-highway engine division. He added that Cat is not pursuing SCR [Selective Catalytic Reduction] technology for its 2007 engines either but will rely on its Advanced Combustion Emission Reduction Technology [ACERT] to meet the tighter standards.

“Customers asked us to have 2007-grade engines available for 18 to 24 months worth of testing before the new standards go into effect – that’s why we’re doing this, to make them more comfortable with the technology,” said McReynolds. “We expect to be in full production of 2007-compliant engines by the fourth quarter of 2006.”