Caterpillar has announced that its 150 and 160 motor graders are shifting to the Next Generation platform.
The next gen redesign delivers smarter controls, improved efficiency and enhanced operator comfort.
Both models now feature Caterpillar’s easy-to-use joystick steering controls: optional on the Cat 150 and fitted as standard to the Cat 160.
Joysticks place transmission, gear shifting and machine-direction control on the left, while the right handles drawbar, circle and moldboard functions as well as throttle control and the manual differential lock and unlock.
“Hours of ergonomic research shows how joystick controls reduce hand and arm movements for the operator, when compared to the usual level and steering configuration,” said Eric Kohout, Caterpillar Senior Product Consultant for Motor Graders.
“Reducing operator fatigue is key to maintaining and improving productivity. So, transferring control into two, three-axis joysticks completely redefines operator comfort.”
Finish gear delivers precise grading
Both new next gen models deliver exacting control through nine forward and six reverse gears, with a new offering of a finish gear that allows the operator to achieve precise grading results.
The finish gear is used for the final stage of the grading process, and ensures the ground is uniform and even, delivering the specified slope and elevation requirements for the most demanding construction projects.
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The 150 sports a 3.6-metre moldboard as standard, with a standard 4.3 metre moldboard on the 160. Both graders are upgradeable to 4.3 metres and 4.9 metres, respectively.
“The Next Generation platform is all about efficiency, productivity and operator comfort. These new models achieve those objectives in many ways,” Kohout said.
“From a practical perspective, the new models maintain the dimensions of those they replace with a C9.3 engine providing strong, consistent power to the ground.”
Redesigned cab improves visibility
Another new feature for the next gen graders is the fully redesigned cab, which was introduced on the 120 and 140 models. Larger windows improve visibility all around the cab, with particular focus on the moldboard and tires. Cat has also improved HVAC and seat adjustment options.
To further improve visibility, the optional integrated rear vision, front vision, 360-degree cameras and Caterpillar’s People Detection system feed into the cab’s 25-cm touchscreen. The same screen also controls optional technologies, such as Cat Grade. Both models allow easy upgrades to attachments, ensuring they hit grade faster.
“It’s exciting to see the Next Generation features arriving with the 150 and 160,” Kohout said. “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.”
The Cat 150 with joystick option will launch in Europe in the second half of 2026, followed by the full launch for all configurations and regions.
