News

In early February the Russian division of Caterpillar had a traditional briefing with reporters on the results of the past year and development prospects. On the whole we can point out  that in 2008 Caterpillar outstripped other companies producing building machinery and its line accounted for more than 300 vehicles, as well as engines and power-plants. It employed 112,887 people and its sales reached a record-breaking $51.3 billion. The turnover rose by 60%, and the supplied machinery doubled in comparison with 2007. There are all in all over 2.5 million Caterpillar vehicles in the world. In 2008 the company started another business direction – construction of tunnels after acquiring the Lovat Company. A new line has been launched: medium excavators (12-17 tonnes) and Small Caterpillar^® Excavators Cat 307D, 308D CR with limited lift capability and swing radius and the first bulldozer equipped with an electric transmission D7E (available everywhere except the USA so far). Last year Caterpillar CIS celebrated its 35^th anniversary and Chairman of board of directors James Owen visited Russia. The launch of the 320D excavators at Tosno plant marked this event. In 2009 they plan to start the assembly of two more models 329 and 336 considering that 80% of components for excavators are manufactured on the site. The facility occupies 21,000 ì² and employs more than 700 employees. Today they work in two shifts including machine and components assembly plants. On the whole Caterpillar has already laid out 20,000 employees because of the crisis that affected the world. Anyway the company is not talking of the crisis and potential demise but ensures maintenance extends aftersale service and provides components. Caterpillar CIS sees its top priority in the setting up a n impressive component base. So the strategic development of the company is going on despite the crisis.