Caterpillar has replaced the well regarded 777F 91 t class truck with the new 777G off-highway truck. The 777 was first introduced by Caterpillar in 1977 and has proven to be a workhorse for mining and large earthmoving customers. Caterpillar states that the 777G delivers greater levels of production and fuel efficiency as well as enhanced safety, operator comfort and service convenience. The company adds: “The 777G achieves greater production with 7% more torque powering work and new transmission controls that produce quick haul cycles with automotive quality shifting. The production increases are balanced with new fuel saving strategies that include configurable economy settings as well as an adaptive economy mode that automatically optimises fuel consumption based on the user’s production baseline.”

Fuel savings also are realised behind the scenes through features such as auto neutral idle and APECS transmission controls where the truck becomes more fuel efficient at idle in a forward gear and when climbing grades. Customers can choose to engage features like Engine Idle Shutdown and speed limiting to further improve fuel savings. In addition to its fuel efficiency, the 777G is quieter and produces fewer emissions. Caterpillar is introducing its EPA Tier 4 Final solution on the 777G two years in advance of the effective date of the regulation, which provides customers an opportunity to advance their sustainability goals. The solution is both simple and robust and includes engine technology combined with diesel oxidation catalysts. It requires the use of ultra low sulphur diesel fuel and low ash engine oil, but requires no additional maintenance or operator input.  For operations outside of areas regulated by the US EPA, the 777G reduces emissions with a Tier 2 or EU Stage II equivalent technology and fuel efficiency.

Caterpillar has also enhanced braking and traction control for G Series. Hydraulic oil-immersed disc brakes are now standard on all four corners of the truck. The system design increases slope holding capability and provides fade resistant, responsive braking performance. Design updates extend brake component life by increasing the force used to disengage the brakes. The optional Cat engine brake can extend service brake life and integrates with Automatic Retarder Control, enabling fast downhill travel and reduced cycle times. The new parking brake system actuates the front brakes as well as the rear for solidly holding the truck on a slope. In addition to brake performance updates, the traction control system on the 777G is now able to differentiate between tire spin and high speed turns so it now can activate at lower speeds. The system now uses the hydraulically applied service brakes for improved response time and modulation from one wheel group to the other. The 777G also features new designs to enhance the safety and comfort of operators and maintenance personnel.

Object Detection comes as standard on the 777G. Using a combination of radars, an in-cab display and multiple cameras, Object Detection provides equipment operators with enhanced awareness for increased site safety. The 777G also offers tyre monitoring through use of payload values from the Truck Production Monitoring System and data such as air temperature and truck speed to calculate the load placed on tyres. As tyres approach their rated load-speed rating, a warning is given and customers can choose a course of action, including slowing down or reducing payload. The 777G also introduces the next generation of transmission control strategies from Caterpillar. Advanced Productivity Electronic Control Strategy or APECS provides greater productivity at better fuel rates with torque shift management that allows the truck to carry more momentum up grades. Drive train durability profits from next generation electronic clutch pressure control, and APECS further provides outstanding shift quality for a smooth ride.