Lester M. Sears was the gentleman who thought it might be good idea to modify the farm tractor for use by industry more than 80 years ago. He came up with the "Model L," and though it can appear a bit obsolete at the moment, it was packed with new ideas. The equipment transformed and revolutionized the materials handling industry.
Lester's initial truck provided innovations which have become standard nowadays within the lift truck business. Amongst these key features include: wheel drive, rear-wheel steering, high speed forward and equal reverse gears, and hydraulic tilting and lifting.
During the year 1965 the business was obtained by Caterpillar and Lester began "Towmotor" and after that started CAT Forklifts. With the same commitment to sensible solutions, dedication to extraordinary reliability and new ideas, CAT enjoys thinking that they are Lester's direct descendants. The Model L was really durable and efficient that the prototype worked hard for more than 30 years prior to finally retiring.
Caterpillar formed a joint venture in 1992 with MHI Ltd. or Mitsubishi Heavy Industries. They brought together technological strengths and marketing and financial strengths in the manufacturing of material handling machinery. The company has had their head office in Almere, the Netherlands ever since that time.
CAT forklifts are currently amongst the best built machinery in the business. CAT produces forklifts that operate on diesel, LPG, electric counter balanced models and gasoline engines. The company also makes an entire line of warehouse machinery. The local CAT dealers are among the very best in the industry and provide more than 80 years of relevant experience.
The RTCH is a specially designed rough terrain vehicle which is able to operate in up to 5 feet of sea water and utilizes 4-wheel drive. This model can function on soft soil locations like for example unprepared beaches. The RTCH is able to handle the 8 foot wide and 20 to 40 foot long containers.