MCFA, or Mitsubishi Caterpillar Forklift America Inc., is a leading manufacturer and distributor of forklifts across North, Central, and South America. Headquartered in Houston, Texas, MCFA was established in 1992 as a joint venture between Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and Caterpillar Industrial Inc. It is responsible for distributing three distinct brands: Mitsubishi forklift trucks, Cat® lift trucks, and Jungheinrich® warehouse products.
The Three MCFA Brands
Cat® Lift Trucks
The Cat lift truck brand has been trusted for nearly 50 years, offering forklifts with capacities ranging from 2,500 to 36,000 pounds. MCFA manufactures and distributes Cat lift trucks throughout the Americas.
Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks
Mitsubishi forklifts are known for durability and operator comfort. The FBC15N-FBC18LN series, for example, features a two-stage hydraulic system that reduces energy consumption and extends run times.
Jungheinrich® Warehouse Products
Through a distribution agreement established in 2010, MCFA brings Jungheinrich's advanced warehouse products, including automated guided vehicles (AGVs), to the North American market.
Key Product Series
Electric Forklifts
Cat EC23N - EC30LN Series: 4,500–6,500 lb capacity sit-down electric counterbalance trucks with advanced AC motors and regenerative braking for extended run times.
Mitsubishi FBC15N-FBC18LN Series: 3,000–4,000 lb capacity electric cushion tire forklifts with a two-stage hydraulic system for energy efficiency.
Diesel Forklifts
FD100N-FD160AN Series: Tier 4 Final diesel pneumatic tire trucks handling up to 36,000 pounds. Features include a Perkins 1204F 4.4L twin-turbo diesel engine, maintenance-free SCR emissions system, and 500-hour service intervals.
Narrow Aisle and Warehouse Equipment
Jungheinrich ECE 227/236 XL NA: Center-control riders with AC motors, Curve Control for cornering safety, and lithium-ion battery options with a 5-year warranty.
Key Technologies and Features
Advanced AC Technology – MCFA forklifts feature AC motors and controllers that deliver powerful torque, quick acceleration, and high energy efficiency. Regenerative braking recovers energy and feeds it back to the battery.
Emissions and Fuel Efficiency – The FD100N-FD160AN series meets Tier 4 Final EPA requirements with a maintenance-free SCR aftertreatment system. Perkins engines deliver exceptional power with increased fuel efficiency.
Safety Systems – Integrated presence systems detect whether operators are wearing seat belts and lock out travel if not. Orange seat belts help managers easily identify compliance. Engine protection systems warn operators about oil pressure, transmission fluid temperature, and coolant temperature.
Lithium-Ion Battery Options – Jungheinrich warehouse products offer lithium-ion packages with fast charging, no maintenance, longer service life, and a 5-year battery warranty.
Operator Comfort and Ergonomics – Features include low step height (4.9 inches), cushioned floor pads, padded backrests, and Jet Pilot steering wheels for effortless control. Fingertip armrest controls provide precise load handling.
Dealer Network and Support
MCFA features the industry's most extensive dealer network in North, Central, and South America. Parts are supplied from five regional distribution centers located in California, Indiana, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Texas. MCFA also provides operator training and safety resources, including "Forklift Rules of the Road" and "Forklift Certification FAQs". A dealer technical training center helps technicians keep up with rapidly changing new technologies.
The bottom line: MCFA (Mitsubishi Caterpillar Forklift America) is a leading manufacturer and distributor of forklifts across the Americas, headquartered in Houston, Texas. The company distributes three distinct brands: Mitsubishi forklift trucks, Cat® lift trucks, and Jungheinrich® warehouse products. Key product series include the Cat EC23N-EC30LN electric forklifts (4,500–6,500 lbs), Mitsubishi FBC15N-FBC18LN electric cushion tire forklifts (3,000–4,000 lbs), and the FD100N-FD160AN diesel series (up to 36,000 lbs). MCFA features advanced AC technology, Tier 4 Final diesel engines, lithium-ion battery options, and an extensive dealer network with five regional parts distribution centers.