Caterpillar continues to shift its range of motor graders to the Next Generation platform, announcing the Cat 150 and 160 motor graders as the latest models to receive the redesign. The machines feature smarter controls, greater efficiency and enhanced operator comfort.
Smarter controls
The two models are now equipped with Caterpillar’s easy-to-use joystick steering controls: optional on the Cat 150 and fitted as standard on the Cat 160.
“Hours of ergonomic research shows how joystick controls reduce hand and arm movements for the operator, when compared to the usual lever and steering configuration,” said Eric Kohout, Caterpillar senior product consultant for motor graders.
“Reducing operator fatigue is key to maintaining and improving productivity,” he pointed out, “so transferring control into two three-axis joysticks completely redefines operator comfort.”
The joysticks place transmission, gear shifting and machine-direction control on the left, while the right handles drawbar, circle and mouldboard functions as well as throttle control and manual differential lock and unlock.
Both the 150 and 160 provide exacting control through nine forward and six reverse gears, with a new finish gear that allows the operator to achieve precise grading results. Used for the final stage of the grading process, the finish gear ensures the ground is uniform and even, delivering the specified slope and elevation requirements for demanding construction projects.
The 150 model comes with a 12-ft mouldboard as standard, while the 160 features a 14-ft version; upgrades are available to 14 and 16 ft, respectively.
“The Next Generation platform is all about efficiency, productivity and operator comfort,” stressed Mr Kohout. “These new models achieve those objectives in many ways. From a practical perspective, the machines maintain the dimensions of those they replace with a C9.3 engine providing strong, consistent power to the ground.”
Redesigned cab
Another highlight is the fully redesigned cab, first introduced on the upgraded 120 and 140 models. Larger windows maximise all-round visibility, with particular focus on the mouldboard and tyres, while the ‘operator-first’ approach continues with improvements to HVAC and seat adjustment options.
Visibility can be further enhanced with optional integrated rear vision, front vision, 360-degree cameras and Caterpillar’s People Detection system, all feeding into the cab’s 10-in touchscreen. The same touchscreen also controls optional technologies, such as Cat Grade. Both models allow easy upgrades to attachments, ensuring they hit grade faster.
“Caterpillar motor graders have long been revered for their ‘grade any terrain’ capability and impressive jobsite productivity. The new platform serves only to make that offering more robust still,” said Mr Kohout.
The Cat 150 with joystick option will launch in European countries in the second half of 2026. A full launch for all configurations and regions will follow.
