The Cat pickup truck is finally here, although it might not be what you were expecting.
Back in 2024, a flood of AI-generated images had the internet thinking Caterpillar was developing a pickup truck. While much of it is just nonsense, the prospect of such a vehicle in the black and yellow marque still sparks excitement among many fans.
At the time, Caterpillar did not comment on any of the projects, but an insider later contacted driving force. In addition to confirming the rumors via an engine liner development report, the source also claimed V6 and V8 variants and even expected pricing.
Caterpillar’s Cat trucks are here, but it’s a little different than pickup truck fans expected. – Image source: Caterpillar
It turns out Caterpillar is actually working on a pickup truck. But unfortunately, the AI images don’t seem too far off from what we expected.
Ford trucks full of technology
That’s because the one-off Cat truck concept unveiled this week at ConExpo-Con/AGG in Las Vegas is apparently a Ford Super Duty. Like its inspiration, it’s not a new truck but a redesigned version of an existing model.
Furthermore, instead of giving the Ford extra power or extra features, the company is using the pickup truck to promote its cutting-edge (somewhat ironically, AI-powered) construction technology.
So, in addition to “detection camera technology” that recognizes when a person gets too close to a machine, Cat Trucks is rolling out a “driver safety system” that monitors operator fatigue on the vehicle and connected job site equipment.
Additionally, Caterpillar equips the pickup with everything a work supervisor needs to keep an eye on the team. From CAT AI Assistant to VisionLink productivity monitoring, everything is included in a convenient centralized display center.
Add to that a platform that launches drones to survey sites and deliver parts, and the result is a truck that’s undeniably forward-thinking, albeit a bit lofty in its goals. So why didn’t it live up to everyone’s expectations?
VisionLink Productivity Monitoring allows work supervisors to keep tabs on their teams. – Image source: Caterpillar
It’s not what fans think
If I had to point out two things, I think it comes down to timing and execution.
In terms of the former, I’m mainly talking about artificial intelligence. Given Caterpillar’s focus on future technology, launching software-driven trucks makes sense, but is that really what people want?
Self-driving drones sound exciting, but are they really the trucks people want? – Image source: Caterpillar
Sure, the company’s press release is full of language like “hear your voice,” “human insight,” and “need,” but a quick scroll through the video comments reveals many fans insisting on something more device-related than another voice assistant.
Additionally, you’ll find that some users express broader concerns about employee productivity. While improving security and efficiency are lofty enough goals, they become more complicated when achieving them through increased reliance on artificial intelligence and personal surveillance.
Of course, even independent of its AI associations, it’s hard to make a case for Cat trucks given what’s available in the aftermarket.
The cat badge and yellow colorway would make for a sweet truck, which is probably why the result feels a little underbaked. – Image source: Caterpillar
Whether you’re talking about regular production offerings from tuners like Hennessey and Roush or exciting one-offs from SEMA, the bar for modified trucks is pretty high. Caterpillar gave the Super Duty a rugged makeover and a slick paint job, but looks and technology alone don’t stand out.
As a one-off, that’s probably all the plan is for the long-awaited Cat truck. Even if Caterpillar is just building a concept for promotional purposes, I know I’m not the only one wishing the brand would take bigger action.
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