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Caterpillar Forklift Models: A Complete Overview

Published time:

2026-06-25

Author:

Xin Hong Guang

Source:

Xin Hong Guang

Abstract

Caterpillar offers a comprehensive range of forklifts, from compact electric warehouse trucks to heavy-duty diesel and LPG counterbalance models. The company's lineup spans counterbalance forklifts (diesel, LPG, and electric), reach trucks, warehouse equipment, and specialized very narrow aisle (VNA) trucks. Below is a breakdown of the major model series and representative models.Counterbalance ForkliftsDiesel-Powered (DP Series)Caterpillar's diesel forklifts are built for heavy-duty outdoor and industrial applications. The latest DP20-35P3 range offers capacities from 2.0 to 3.5 tonnes. The DP series includes models with lifting capacities ranging from 1.5 to over 8.0 tonnes.Model Capacity NotesDP15 ~1.5 t Entry-level dieselDP25N ~2.5 t Triplex mast, 4.41 lb capacity (likely a data error)DP30K ~3.0 t Representative modelDP40K 8.0 t High-capacity modelDP50CN3 / DP50N3 5.0 t 4-cylinder common rail dieselLPG-Powered (GP Series)The LPG-powered GP series is available in 1.5 to 3.5

Caterpillar offers a comprehensive range of forklifts, from compact electric warehouse trucks to heavy-duty diesel and LPG counterbalance models. The company's lineup spans counterbalance forklifts (diesel, LPG, and electric), reach trucks, warehouse equipment, and specialized very narrow aisle (VNA) trucks. Below is a breakdown of the major model series and representative models.


Counterbalance Forklifts

Diesel-Powered (DP Series)

Caterpillar's diesel forklifts are built for heavy-duty outdoor and industrial applications. The latest DP20-35P3 range offers capacities from 2.0 to 3.5 tonnes. The DP series includes models with lifting capacities ranging from 1.5 to over 8.0 tonnes.


Model Capacity Notes

DP15 ~1.5 t Entry-level diesel

DP25N ~2.5 t Triplex mast, 4.41 lb capacity (likely a data error)

DP30K ~3.0 t Representative model

DP40K 8.0 t High-capacity model

DP50CN3 / DP50N3 5.0 t 4-cylinder common rail diesel

LPG-Powered (GP Series)

The LPG-powered GP series is available in 1.5 to 3.5 tonne capacities. The latest GP15-35(C)P range offers seven LPG models.


Model Capacity Notes

GP18 ~1.8 t Compact LPG model

GP25NT ~2.5 t Representative model

GP35 ~3.5 t Mid-range LPG

GP40N ~4.0 t Larger LPG model

GP50K / GP50N1 5.0 t High-capacity LPG

GP55N1 5.5 t Top of the GP line

Electric Counterbalance Forklifts

EQ Line (Entry-Level Electric)

The EQ Line offers electric counterbalance trucks with capacities from 1.6 to 3.5 tonnes. These models feature lithium-ion battery technology as standard.


Model Series Capacity Features

EP16-35Q(T)(L) 1.6 – 3.5 t 3 or 4 wheels, 48V or 80V batteries

Electric (EP Series)

Model Capacity Notes

EP16KT 1.6 t Electric forklift

EP20AN 2.0 t Triplex mast

EP35N 3.5 t Electric model

Warehouse and Reach Trucks

Reach Trucks (NR/N3 Series)

Caterpillar offers 26 reach truck models across four N3 ranges:


Range Model Series Capacity Application

Light/Medium Duty NR12-14N3(L)(C) 1.2 – 1.4 t Most compact Cat reach trucks

Standard/Heavy Duty NR16-25N3H(X) 1.6 – 2.5 t Includes extra-high lifting versions

4-Way Reach Trucks NRM20-25N3 2.0 – 2.5 t Handles long loads, multi-directional travel

Man-Down VNA NTD13-15N3 1.3 – 1.5 t Combines VNA and reach truck functionality

Warehouse Equipment (EQ Line)

The EQ Line warehouse portfolio includes:


Mini power pallet trucks


Pedestrian power pallet trucks (1.6 and 2.0 t)


Platform power pallet trucks


Compact pedestrian stackers (mono and duplex mast)


Sit-on tow trucks


Mini order picker


Platform Power Pallet Trucks

The NPF/NPV20-25N3 line-up includes six models with capacities of 2.0 and 2.5 tonnes, available with foldable or fixed platforms and lithium-ion or lead-acid batteries.


Telehandlers (Rough Terrain Forklifts)

Caterpillar also produces telehandler-style rough terrain forklifts, primarily under the TL and TH series:


Model Capacity Lift Height Engine

TL943 9,000 lbs 43 ft Cat C3.6L

TL1055C 10,000 lbs 55.1 ft Cat C4.4 ACERT™

TH407C ~8,800 lbs 24.9 ft Cat C4.4 ACERT™

TH1255 12,000 lbs 54.6 ft Heavy-duty telehandler

Model Number Naming Convention

Caterpillar forklift model numbers typically follow a pattern that indicates power source and capacity:


DP = Diesel Pneumatic tire


GP = Gas (LPG) Pneumatic tire


EP = Electric Pneumatic tire


NR = Narrow Reach truck


NTD = Narrow aisle Turret Drive (VNA)


The numbers generally indicate capacity in tonnes or pounds (e.g., GP25 = 2.5 tonne LPG; TL1055 = 10,000 lb capacity, 55 ft lift height). Suffixes like N, N1, N3 indicate generation or series updates.


Finding the Right Model

Caterpillar tracks over 248 forklift models. For the most up-to-date specifications and availability, consult:


The official Cat Lift Trucks website product selector


Authorized Cat lift truck dealers


Online marketplaces like Machinio and Aucto for current listings

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