Caterpillar's new M Series medium wheel loaders feature up to 15% less fuel consumption compared to H Series loaders. Updated ACERT engines offer increased engine power by up to 22%. The new models, including the 950M, 962M, 966M, and 972, meet the EPA's Tier 3 emission standards.

Heavy-duty components, including the Caterpillar-designed engine, transmission, and axles, reduce operating costs and the risk of premature wear resulting in increased uptime. Modifications to the axles reduce tire scuffing and parasitic loads, and enhance positive lubrication. The Integrated Braking System offers smoother downshifts and increased deceleration control. An on-demand fan enhances fuel efficiency and lowers sound levels. 

Front and rear frames are made of high-strength materials for long-term durability and robotically welded to ensure reliable performance. Z-bar front linkage produces optimum bucket and boom forces. Improved hydraulic-hose routing reduces potential wear. Full-flow filtration with additional loop filtration extends component life.

The one-piece tilting hood with side and rear doors provides easy access to daily fluid level checks and fueling points. Electric and hydraulic service centers provide grouped, ground-level access to such items as Scheduled Oil Sampling powers, which facilitate collecting fluid samples at optimum points in a circulating system.

Fleet owners can manage equipment productivity through the online VisionLink interface, which tracks critical items such as location, hours, fuel usage, diagnostic codes, and idle time. Additional upgrades include a ride-control system with dual accumulators for a smoother ride and a streamlined control panel for increased operator efficiency.