The rise and rise of smaller operators in the construction industry cannot be wished away. Caterpillar that has a long history in Africa, with the first dealerships on the continent starting in the mid-twenties of the 20th century is swiftly responding to its ustomer’s needs as FRED ODHIAMBO writes.
In Summary:
- The new Cat® 426F2 Backhoe Loader with Side Shift frame comes with a massive range of options so customers can build a machine to suit their exact business needs and budget.
- With the 426F2 customers can now choose between 2- or 4-wheel drive, specify a backhoe loader or excavator control pattern, decide on the right climate control or heating package for the cab and consider the level of Product Link™ technology that will suit them.
- The launch displays Mantrac group’s readiness to continuously invest in the Kenya business to better support customers who have been with them over the years with innovative a diverse offering to suit industry trends
- Powered by the 68.5 kW Cat 3054C 4-cylinder diesel engine matched to a Cat four-speed Power-Shuttle transmission. Standard 2-wheel and optional 4-wheel drive models both come with a 100% differential lock in the rear axle for maximum traction in poor ground conditions. Its new wide cab design for excellent visibility and comfort gives the operator extra room to switch positions for loading, carrying and trenching tasks.
- Whether it’s close-up truck loading or digging over obstacles, the new 426F2’s distinctive excavator-style boom outperforms straight boom designs. The High-rotation bucket linkage ensures superior material retention and exceptional removal from the trench. Its hydraulic system moderates fuel usage, reduces operating noise levels and decreases wear and tear on key components.
Caterpillar Mantrac has launched a more affordable version of its F2 Series Backhoe Loader in a bid to target the smaller operators with a range of features purpose-built for the African and Middle Eastern markets.
Speaking at the launch Corné Timmermans highlighted that Caterpillar and its dealers are always innovating new technologies to deliver solutions to customers through both products and services.
“With this cutting edge technology and the productivity of the 426F2 we project our market share to grow in this category of equipment” he added.
This comes after Mantrac Kenya Limited, the sole authorized dealer for Caterpillar products, this year hosted one of the Group Presidents of Caterpillar, Rob Charter who was in the country in a bid to further boost the business in the market.
John Waikwa, Machines and MH Sales Manager Mantrac Kenya Limited, highlighted that with the power and technology to take both fast trenching and delicate digging in its stride, the machine has all the performance, manoeuvrability and reliability customers can expect from the Caterpillar brand.
He added that although it’s priced to be in reach for a growing business, the 426F2 is based on the proven 428F2 design so there’s no element of compromise in the new model.
Kenya has a vibrant construction industry, thus contractors are seeking solutions that will enable delivery of their projects in a timely manner and at lower costs hence the decision to launch the product in the country.
The new Cat® 426F2 Backhoe Loader with Side Shift frame comes with a massive range of options so customers can build a machine to suit their exact business needs and budget.
With the 426F2 customers can now choose between 2- or 4-wheel drive, specify a backhoe loader or excavator control pattern, decide on the right climate control or heating package for the cab and consider the level of Product Link™ technology that will suit them.
The launch displays Mantrac group’s readiness to continuously invest in the Kenya business to better support customers who have been with them over the years with innovative a diverse offering to suit industry trends.
Caterpillar Inc. has a long history in Africa, with the first dealerships on the continent starting in the mid-twenties of the 20th century. Here in Kenya, roots go back to that period of time with Gailey & Roberts, which was acquired by Mantrac in 1997. Today, Caterpillar is present in all countries of Africa through dealers except for Somalia.
Mantrac Kenya LTD currently provides the complete range of Caterpillar Construction Equipment and has a proven track record in supplying and supporting machines for major developmental and infrastructural projects. This includes General Contracting, Road Building, Land Reclamation, Quarries and Agricultural projects and many more.
Mantrac Kenya Limited is also part of the giant Mantrac Group which holds the Caterpillar dealerships in Egypt, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Ghana, Tanzania, Uganda, Iraq and in the Western Siberia region of Russia. Being part of an international network gives a competitive edge in product delivery and service support.
