Caterpillar Adds CT680 Model to its Line of Vocational Trucks
The CT680, which enters full production in July, is available in truck and tractor configurations and features vocational-specific engines and transmissions, according to the company.
“Customers told us they wanted a truck they could work hard,” said Dave Schmitz, Caterpillar’s vocational truck product manager. “The CT680 is as rugged as they come — built for heavy loads, hard jobs and harsh environments — but it still delivers shift-long comfort and a stylish appearance.”
The CT680 is the third vocational truck offered by Caterpillar, joining the CT681, another set-forward-axle model introduced last year, and the CT660, which has a set-back front axle and was launched in 2011.
The Cat-branded trucks are built by Navistar Inc. under a contract manufacturing agreement. Navistar assembles the vehicles at its plant in Escobedo, Mexico.
The CT680 features Cat’s CT13 engine, which is also built for Cat by Navistar. The 13-liter engine features selective catalytic reduction technology to meet emission standards and offers horsepower ratings from 410 to 475 and peak torque ratings from 1,450 to 1,700 pound-feet.
Cat said it also plans to introduce a 15-liter engine option in both the CT680 and CT660 and will make an announcement about its strategy for that engine later this year.
Transmission options for the CT680 include the Cat CX31 automatic transmission, Eaton Corp.’s Ultrashift Plus vocational transmission and a variety of manual transmissions.
Cat said its automatic transmission makes it easier for customers to recruit, train and keep drivers, while also enhancing safety on jobsites since drivers don’t need to operate the clutch or take their hands off the wheel.
Despite its rugged design, the CT680 features an “attractive automotive appearance” and a spacious and ergonomic cab, Cat said.
Customers can choose between two exterior trim levels — L and LG. The CT680L comes with a three-piece hood, three-piece chrome bumper and three-piece grille surround, composite halogen headlights and incandescent parking and turn lights. The CT680LG features a one-piece fiberglass hood, three-piece black bumper and integrated fiberglass grille surround, sealed-beam halogen headlights and LED parking and turn lights.
The CT680 comes standard with Product Link, Caterpillar’s asset and fleet management tool.
Customers can use ProductLink to track information such as fuel use and costs, location, working and idle time and preventive maintenance schedules.
Other options include a vehicle infotainment system and a tire-pressure monitoring system from Bendix.
Full service for the CT680 will be available at more than 400 Cat dealership locations across North America, the company said.
