FCC

Cat Unveils 980 GC Wheel Loader

2025-08-01

Caterpillar has introduced the 980 GC, a new 65,610-pound medium wheel loader delivering 420 horsepower, expanding its range of affordable and lower-spec equipment. The machine is designed for heavy-duty tasks such as material movement, truck loading, and other construction operations, while offering impressive fuel economy.

It features an on-demand fan, load-sensing hydraulics, intuitive controls, and Cat’s Performance Series buckets. Other GC models include the 950 GC, 966 GC and 988 GC. The company has also released 10 next-generation medium wheel loaders from the 42,461-pound 950 to the 78,264-pound 982, including XE variants.

“We’ve built the new 980 GC on a long legacy of high performance and highly reliable wheel loaders with proven components and integrated Cat machine systems,” said Frank Stadelmann, Global Product Application Specialist at Caterpillar. “The loader’s simple user interface, intuitive controls and excellent visibility make for comfortable and efficient operation, even with less-experienced operators. New features to this model, like our Engine Idle Management System (EIMS), minimise idle rpm and fuel consumption to help deliver low owning and operating costs.”

The 980 GC is powered by Cat’s C13 engine, which uses a combination of diesel oxidation catalyst, selective catalytic reduction and ammonia oxidation catalyst to meet Tier 4 Final emissions standards. Cat claims the Clean Emissions Module works in the background without affecting productivity.

EIMS, Auto Engine Idle Shutdown, a variable speed fan and load-sensing hydraulics contribute to lower fuel use and reduced sound levels. Its automatic planetary powershift transmission ensures durability and long service life. With four forward and reverse speeds and a top speed of 24.7 mph, the loader also includes an Electronic Clutch Pressure Control (ECPC) system for smooth shifting in all operating conditions.