Caterpillar’s F-Series pavers, AP1000F and AP1055F, include several features that help improve fuel economy while maintaining high performance levels. Engine performance is aided by the 225 hp Cat C7.1 ACERT engine, which meets U.S. EPA Tier 4 final emissions regulations without sacrificing power. On some F-Series models, a Cat C7.1 engine is also available that meets emissions equivalent to U.S. EPA Tier 3, providing 249 hp.

Eco-mode is standard on F-Series pavers. When used with automatic engine speed control, Eco-mode efficiently manages engine RPMs to optimize fuel economy, reduce sound levels, and keep the paver running smoothly. The control automatically adjusts RPMs when the engine reaches a high load threshold or needs additional cooling.

An integrated generator, the power behind a new screed heating system, is another fuel-saving enhancement. The integrated generator is directly connected to the paver engine and operates as a core part of the machine. The SE60-Series screeds’ refined heat distribution combine with the generator to bring the screed to the proper temperature in approximately 15 minutes, compared with the previous 30-45.

The F-Series pavers run at about 1,300 RPMs while heating, compared with the more common 2,200 RPMs of some competitive machines, according to Caterpillar. The lower RPM requirement lessens sound levels and can lead to earlier start times in residential areas.