Sporting a hybrid system which combines diesel and
electric power, the D7E is capable of moving more material per gallon of
fuel while costing less to service and maintain. The electric drive
system which was built exclusively for track-type tractor applications
was the first of a wide range of new drive technologies Caterpillar was
developing for use in heavy equipment. The D7E was subsequently
recognized with a Clean Air Excellence Award from the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency for its contribution to improving air quality.

Lasting
twice as long as other tractors, the power train oil system takes 50
percent less oil. The Caterpillar D7E also eliminates extra moving parts
while cutting down on fuel consumption, helping to save on operating
costs considerably. With much fewer moving parts than a typical
mechanical drive system, there are fewer components to potentially break
down or wear out. They were also designed to last up to 50 percent
longer than its conventional drive system counterpart. There’s no
denying the benefits of such a fuel efficient and capable piece of heavy
machinery.

Caterpillar
also claimed that operating a D7E is smoother with the removal of gears
or clutches, and with the ability to make lock-track pivot turns. This
advanced maneuverability system was the first of its kind for its class
of equipment and makes operating the D7E more efficient than ever
before. Caterpillar’s innovation didn’t stop there, however. Despite its
hybrid system, the D7E is no slouch; it was even able to outperform
most other dozers even though it has less horsepower thanks to its
increased drive train efficiency. The D7E’s powerful electrical
generator is driven by a Cat C9.3 ACERT diesel engine rated at 235 net
horsepower.

Caterpillar’s ingenuity has clearly influenced its
competitors over the years by staying at the cutting edge of the
industry, continuing to provide reliable, innovative, and efficient
heavy equipment. The D7E was a great innovation in 2009 and continues to
be a smart choice to consider when looking for used heavy equipment
that can easily hold its own even on heavy duty jobs.