Caterpillar launches the new Cat 707 wide body truck.

Engineered for durability and high machine availability, the new Cat 707 wide body truck is built around a fully integrated Cat powertrain that combines a Cat C13 engine, Cat automatic transmission, and proprietary Cat axles

Designed to handle demanding haulage applications, the truck offers a maximum payload of 66 tonnes and is available in standard or heavy duty configurations, with body options of 40 m3 or 42 m3 to suit varying materials and site conditions.

Developed with Caterpillar’s rebuild focused design philosophy, the 707 wide body truck is intended to deliver consistent mechanical availability throughout its operating life while supporting a second lifecycle through cost effective rebuilds. This approach helps customers extend asset life and manage long term operating costs.

The new 707 wide body truck has been engineered, manufactured, and field tested using the latest technologies to ensure it is ready for work upon deployment. It is the first model in a new wide body truck product family that expands Caterpillar’s hauling systems portfolio.

“We have engineered our new wide body truck with a unique philosophy – it’s built to be rebuilt, offering consistent mechanical availability and longevity through a second lifecycle, which can help lower operating costs.” Angel Gonzalez, global product specialist at Caterpillar.

Performance and lifecycle efficiency

The Cat 707 can be configured with a 400 kW Cat C13B engine that meets China Nonroad Stage IV emissions standards, or a 358 kW Cat C13 engine that delivers U.S. EPA Tier 3 equivalent emissions. Both engine options are equipped with a high rated standard engine brake. Power is delivered through a six speed automatic transmission, with an optional integrated hydraulic retarder available for additional braking control.

To support reliability and uptime, the truck features proprietary Cat axles, integrated Cat powertrain controllers, and Cat designed wiring and electrical harnesses. Three levels of braking and retardation are available, including the engine brake, optional hydraulic retarder, and service and parking brakes. This combination improves downhill loaded control, enhances safety, and supports faster haul cycles.

The 707 wide body truck is designed for effective pass matching with Cat 986, 988, and 988 XE wheel loaders, as well as Cat 350, 374, and 395 excavators, helping to improve site productivity.

Operator comfort and training are supported through a left side operator seat and an optional right side instructor seat. The cab is mounted on a robust four point system and includes a standard falling object protective structure, with an optional rollover protective structure available. A reversing camera can be specified to improve maneuvering safety. Automatic shifting with simplified gear selection helps increase efficiency, while the hoist system delivers fast 20 second raise and lower cycle times to speed up material unloading.

Low operating and maintenance costs are supported by the integrated Cat powertrain mounted on a reinforced chassis. When combined with Cat Customer Value Agreements, customers can achieve higher uptime while maintaining reliable performance across multiple life cycles. Grouped service points reduce maintenance time, while a ground level engine shut off switch allows safe engine shutdown by stopping fuel delivery.

Parts commonality with other Cat machines, including the C13 engine, CX31RT transmission, and common cab, simplifies servicing and inventory management. LED lighting provides longer service life, brighter illumination, reduced power consumption, and improved resistance to vibration and moisture.

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XCMG loaders drive urban construction across Africa. (Image source: XCMG)

Across construction sites in Africa, XCMG ZL50GN wheel loaders are playing a key role in shaping new urban developments

Constantly on the move, the machines are used for land levelling, site preparation, and the removal of excess soil and construction waste, directly supporting local infrastructure growth.

“XCMG is a household name here. It’s powerful, durable, and offers excellent value for money; everyone in the industry likes it.” This strong reputation is reinforced by the ZL50GN’s robust performance. Equipped with a powerful engine and designed for efficient operation, the loader enables contractors to maintain construction schedules and meet demanding project timelines.

Many African urban construction projects begin at the fringes of cities, often close to jungle terrain. These sites present challenging and unpredictable conditions, including large stones, dense tree roots, thick vegetation, and mixed urban debris. Such environments place high demands on equipment versatility and reliability. The ZL50GN is engineered to perform effectively under these conditions, offering both flexibility and strength.

With a 3300 mm wheelbase, the machine strikes a balance between manoeuvrability and operational stability. Its 162kW power output generates a maximum digging force of 175kN and a maximum traction force of 160kN, allowing it to manage a wide range of materials with ease.

“XCMG makes material handling easy and fast, significantly improving our work efficiency,” a driver at the project site gave sincere feedback.

“The operation is very simple, easy to learn and quick to master, allowing team members without XCMG driving experience to quickly adapt and get to work.”

Operator comfort and safety are also central to the ZL50GN’s design. The cab features an adjustable steering wheel, seat, and pilot handle, enabling operators to tailor the working environment to their personal preferences. The pilot control system offers smooth, accurate handling, while the wide field of vision enhances safety during operations.

Once site clearing is complete, the construction phase progresses efficiently. The ZL50GN handles the transport and placement of standard building materials with consistent reliability. Its heavy-duty structural components and high-torque, high-efficiency transmission system ensure stable output, even during intensive operations such as the transfer of high-density sand and gravel.

As part of its ongoing internationalisation strategy, XCMG remains focused on delivering engineering equipment that is practical, durable, and easy to use. By supporting customers with reliable machinery tailored to real-world working conditions, the company continues to partner with contractors across Africa in driving sustainable construction progress and shared success.

Komatsu will unveil new machinery, digital solutions, and autonomous technologies to boost jobsite productivity and safety. (Image source: Komatsu)

Komatsu will present its next-generation machinery, digital technologies, and service solutions at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 under the theme, “Connected performance, driving your success.”

The company will demonstrate how insights from connected equipment can be translated into tangible business results to boost productivity, enhance safety, and manage total cost of ownership.

Located at booth W41945 in the West Hall, Komatsu’s exhibit will feature one of the company’s most robust equipment lineups in years, including several models making their North American debut. Each machine is engineered for strong performance, with even greater value when integrated into Komatsu’s comprehensive digital ecosystem, which spans telematics, fleet management, artificial intelligence, and autonomous solutions.

Excavators

The exhibit will highlight the new PC220LCi-12 and PC365LC-11 multifunction plus excavators, designed for operator comfort and advanced technology integration to support efficient and productive jobsite operations. Another new excavator will also be unveiled during the show.

Wheel Loaders

Models such as the WA485-11 and WA475-11 will demonstrate how Komatsu’s proprietary Hydraulic Mechanical Transmission, improved cab design, and embedded technology can increase cycle times, reduce fuel consumption, and enhance operator awareness.

Dozers

Two next-generation dozers will be featured with advanced steering systems and operator-focused cabs. Their technologies are designed to help operators of varying skill levels achieve consistent results while boosting efficiency and productivity on the jobsite.

Haul Trucks

Komatsu will showcase the HD605-10 with enhanced performance and Smart Quarry integrations, along with Smart Quarry Autonomous solutions for both new and retrofit trucks. An all-new high-payload articulated truck with innovative traction control will also be unveiled.

Komatsu emphasises an integrated approach to supporting owners and fleet managers at every stage, from equipment selection and operator training to fleet management, performance analysis, and future planning. The company’s aim is to make operations easier, provide actionable insights, and help businesses achieve sustainable and profitable results.

This includes advancements in autonomous operation, software-defined vehicles, and AI technologies across Komatsu’s product line, driven by recent partnerships and developments.

“Owners and fleet managers want equipment and technology that work together to create value across the entire enterprise, not independently as one-off solutions,” said Rod Bull, CEO, Komatsu North America. “Connected performance is our commitment to deliver machines, data and services that help make better decisions, improve daily productivity and build long-term value in their operations.”

The company will also highlight expanded capabilities in My Komatsu, its central enterprise platform. Visitors can explore personalized digital experiences showing how fleet information, planning tools, and support resources integrate in one interface, leveraging AI and data analytics to shorten decision cycles and improve fleet performance. Smart Construction digital solutions will be demonstrated through hands-on displays and live demos, including tools like Smart Construction Dashboard mobile for planning, tracking, and precise digging.

Additional offerings at the booth will cover forestry applications, drilling equipment, and crushing solutions. Attachments from Komatsu-owned manufacturers Montabert, Lehnhoff, and Hensley will demonstrate increased versatility and efficient material handling across jobsites. Montabert and Hensley will also exhibit in adjacent booths to showcase end-to-end solutions for the construction and mining industries.

Zahid Group leads a consortium to take Barloworld private, reinforcing long term Saudi and South African business ties

Zahid Group has spearheaded a consortium to complete the strategic management buyout of Barloworld Limited, taking the 123 year old South African industrial group into private ownership

The move underscores strengthening commercial links between Saudi Arabia and South Africa and highlights Zahid Group’s sustained confidence in South Africa as a long term investment market.

The transaction builds on Zahid Group’s existing minority stake in Barloworld and brings together two established Caterpillar dealers with deep regional roots. Zahid Group has more than 75 years of operating history in Saudi Arabia, while Barloworld has served the South African market for over 96 years.

Under the revised ownership structure, Barloworld will continue to operate as an independent South African business, retaining its brand identity and existing executive leadership team.

As part of the new arrangement, Zahid Group will take representation on the Barloworld board, supporting closer strategic alignment and future growth initiatives. These include collaborative programmes focused on skills development and youth upskilling across both countries, aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 objectives.

The buyout represents a landmark moment in Saudi and South African commercial relations and reinforces Zahid Group’s long term commitment to sustainable growth, industrial capability and international partnership.