MANUFACTURER NEWS
EPA certifies Cat engine; new emissions standards unmet
Caterpillar announced Thursday the Environmental Protection Agency has certified its newest diesel engine, which does not meet emissions standards set to take effect Tuesday, but will allow the company to continue selling engines after the deadline. EPA approval of the newest engine is contingent upon further testing, which EPA said it will be unable to complete before Tuesday. Cat will pay a penalty for not having an engine to meet the new emissions rules, but the exact amount hasn’t been determined, the company said. Cat said it expects to develop an engine that does meet the new standards by the end of the first quarter and plans to start selling those engines sometime in the second quarter.
Kubota to build new assembly, development facility
Kubota will build a new facility in Oakwood, Ga., to assemble M-series tractors and tractor loader backhoes beginning in 2003. The company’s new technical and marketing center will also be located at the site. It will feature a 32-acre product testing and development center.
Cat to offer Arnco flat-proof tires
Arnco and Caterpillar have agreed to offer Caterpillar tires filled with Arnco’s flat-proofing material as optional equipment on all Caterpillar skid steer loaders and select telehandlers. Bob Giasson, Arnco’s director of marketing, said the decision was made after an extensive test and evaluation period. Cat dealers and rental outfits can either fill the tires with SuperFlex polyurethane themselves or sell tires Caterpillar has filled prior to delivery.
PEOPLE ON THE MOVE
Volvo CE North America has appointed Paul Torrington vice president and chief financial officer. He was previously vice president and CFO of Volvo CE Rents. He holds a bachelor of commerce and a post graduate diploma in marketing management. He will continue to be based in Asheville, N.C.
Volvo CE Rents has named Pat MacFarland global vice president and chief financial officer. She has been with Volvo Motor Graders Ltd. since 1993, most recently as chief project manager. MacFarland is a chartered accountant and a graduate of the University of New Brunswick. She will be based in Asheville, N.C.
