Lester M. Sears was the gentleman who believed it might be good idea to adapt the farm tractor for use by industry more than 80 years ago. He made the "Model L," and even though it may seem a bit obsolete now, it was packed with new ideas. The machine transformed and revolutionized the materials handling industry.
Lester's initial truck provided innovations which have become standard today in the forklift business. Among these important features comprise: wheel drive, rear-wheel steering, high speed forward and equal reverse gears, and hydraulic tilting and lifting.
Lester started the "Towmotor" and afterward began CAT Forklifts, after being obtained by Caterpillar during 1965. With the same dedication to sensible solutions, commitment to exceptional reliability and new ideas, CAT enjoys thinking that they are Lester's direct descendants. The Model L was very durable and effective that the model worked hard for more than 30 years prior to finally retiring.
It was then during the year 1992, when Caterpillar joined Mitsubishi Heavy Industries in a joint venture. They brought together technological strengths and financial and marketing strengths in the manufacturing of material handling machines. The company has had their head office in Almere, the Netherlands ever since that time.
Presently, CAT Forklifts are among the best-built in the industry. These machines are available in LPG, diesel, electric counter balanced models and gasoline engines. The company makes an entire line of warehouse machinery also. The local CAT dealers are among the very best in the industry and provide more than 80 years of relevant experience.
The specially designed RTCH rough terrain vehicle could operate in as much as 5 feet of sea water. This unit is capable of functioning on soft soil places like unprepared beaches. The RTCH could handle the 8 foot wide and 20 to 40 foot long containers.