The Cat 216B3 is fitted with load sensing hydraulics.

AMIT BANSAL,
Sales & Marketing Director-Building Construction Products,
Caterpillar India Region.

216B3 can handle a wide range of mechanical and hydro mechanical work tools.

Brief us on the range offered by Cat in skid steers?
Even though globally we have a wide range of skid steer loaders we have only launched 216B3, our entry model in India. We feel this size class machine has the maximum opportunity right now and will remain that way for some more years to come. 216B3 is fitted with a 51 HP Cat engine and has a rated operating capacity of 635 kg. This machine can handle a wide range of mechanical and hydro mechanical work tools.

Tell us about the cab design, and options provided to increase operator comfort?
216B3 has a spacious and ergonomically designed cabin. Key feature is that 216B3 has easy to operate and low effort joysticks which are used for driving and operating the implements. The operator gets excellent visibility to edges of bucket. Static is standard and suspension seat is available as an option. The static seats can be adjusted. Suspension seat can offer cushioning effect during the ride.

Please elaborate on the features in-built to enhance fuel efficiency?
216B3 is fitted with load sensing hydraulics and provides optimum performance. Thus the hydraulic oil flow is directed to where it is needed. Be it implements or work tool circuit instead of drive motors during work cycle. It is also fitted with a foot throttle in addition to hand throttle to adjust engine RPM. This allows the operator to set the engine at lower rpm and while facing a heavier load the rpm can be increased by pressing the foot throttle. Once the operator takes the foot of the pedal it comes back to the original RPM which is lower. This works in tandem with load sensing hydraulics offering better fuel efficiency.

What are the significant advancements in terms of availability of features to control the machine that helps better productivity?
The machine is fitted with Joystick controls as standard for easy operation. All the drive and implement operation are controlled by hand levers. The engine RPM can be increased by foot throttle for the occasional bursts of power. We have an optional feature called ‘Self Level’ which ensures the bucket is always parallel to the ground during lift cycle thereby preventing spillage of the material and increasing the productivity.

How do you foresee the scope for compact track loaders?
We do not see great demand for the track loaders in the near future. But as the skid steer loader gains more acceptance and the industry starts becoming bigger, compact track loaders will eventually make an entry into the market.

How attractive is the financing options available?
We have partnered with India’s leading financial institute-Tata Capital to offer attractive and affordable financing solutions to our customers. These solutions can be tailored to meet specific needs of our esteemed customers.

Is the rentals picking up?
We see some growth in the rental segment as the awareness about this product is increasing in the market. In certain applications where outright purchase does not justify return on investment, people are renting the machines. We expect this segment to further grow as people become more and more aware of benefits of using skid steers in specialized applications.

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