Caterpillar's vocational truck line continues to grow with the addition of the CT680, a Class 8 set-forward-axle model that tackles the most demanding jobs with comfort and style.
Those jobs can include being the chassis that supports a telescopic crane as part of a boom truck, or supporting a large aerial personnel lift.
The CT680 is the third vocational truck offered by Caterpillar. It features a rugged exterior, attractive automotive appearance, spacious and ergonomic cab, and vocational-specific engine and transmission.
Its set-forward axle, parabolic-taper leaf suspension, tuned cab air suspension system, and premium sound insulation and trim combine to deliver excellent ride quality.
“Customers told us they wanted a truck they could work hard,” said Dave Schmitz, vocational truck product manager. “The CT680 is as rugged as they come—built for heavy loads, hard jobs and harsh environments—but it still delivers shift-long comfort and a stylish appearance.”
Rugged, stylish exterior
Purpose-built for heavy-duty work, the CT680 stands up to big loads and tough applications without sacrificing comfort and appearance, thanks to its automotive styling and clean fit and finish. Customers can choose from truck or tractor configurations and two exterior trim levels—L and LG—addressing different styles and serviceability needs.
The CT680L features a three-piece Metton hood, three-piece chrome bumper, and three-piece chrome stainless grille surround, as well as composite halogen headlights and incandescent park/turn lights. The CT680LG comes with a one-piece fiberglass hood, three-piece black bumper and integrated fiberglass grille surround, along with sealed-beam halogen headlights and LED park/turn lights.
A dual external air cleaner option—for efficient air management even in dirty, dusty applications—is also available.
To minimize service time, modular components—including the grille, grille surround, bumper, and fender extensions—can be replaced individually. Key service points like coolant, washer reservoirs, and air filters are easy to access, and customers can quickly replace headlight bulbs and windshield wiper blades without tools.
Comfortable, productive cab
The CT680’s wide, spacious interior is packed with features that deliver all-day comfort, productivity, and safety. The ergonomic dashboard and center stack make it easy for drivers to read gauges through the steering wheel. Tuned cab air suspension, premium grade sound insulation, and a durable routing and clipping wire system help ensure a smooth, quiet ride.
Drivers can choose from multiple seat options, including the Cat Comfort Seat. The tilting, telescoping steering column with leather-wrapped steering wheel comes standard. There’s plenty of room for paperwork and log books in easy-to-reach side compartments, back-panel storage, and oversized side pockets. Overhead, under-dash and adjustable map lights illuminate work areas, and HVAC controls and vents are easy to access and positioned for optimum air flow.
The curved, sloped, wraparound windshield—in a one- or two-piece design— offers a clear view of the road. Large, heated, cowl-mounted mirrors with integrated turn signals also enhance all-around visibility. A generous door opening, three-point grab irons and skid-resistant steps allows safe entry and exit.
Vocational-specific engine
The Cat CT Series vocational truck engine delivers horsepower ratings from 410 to 475, peak torque ratings from 1,450 to 1,700 lb.-ft., and the flexibility to match power and performance to specific jobs and operating conditions. Highly efficient selective catalytic reduction (SCR), upgraded in-cylinder technology, and proven aftertreatment meet emission requirements.
The CT Series engine’s durable, compacted graphite iron block reduces weight by as much as 200 lbs., compared to standard iron—allowing more payload and efficiency. A single electronic control module and fewer electrical connections help reduce diagnostic and maintenance time, and a fluid-free head gasket eliminates the risk of coolant leaking into engine oil or exhaust gases entering the cooling system.
Productive, easy-to-operate transmission
Featuring six forward speeds and one reverse, the Cat CX31 automatic transmission delivers rugged durability, smooth shifting, and optimum power. It boasts the industry’s highest power-to-weight ratio, full power shifting, and quick acceleration to boost productivity. Ideal speed and torque combinations help improve fuel economy, and two side PTO locations and a Cat exclusive rear PTO enhance versatility and serviceability.
The automatic transmission is simple to operate, making it easier for customers to find, train, and retain productive drivers. Since drivers don’t need to operate the clutch or remove their hands from the wheel, it also enhances safety. Other options for the CT680 include manual transmissions and Eaton's Ultrashift Plus vocational transmission.
Performance-enhancing technology
The CT680 comes standard with Caterpillar’s comprehensive asset and fleet management tool, Product Link. Customers can use this tool and the accompanying VisionLink web interface to track fuel use and costs, location, working versus idle time, preventive maintenance schedules, and more. Fault code or suspicious movement alerts can be sent via email or text message to help minimize downtime.
Also available are an optional Vehicle Infotainment System and a Bendix Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
“If you have heavy loads to haul or hard work to perform, and you want to do it in comfort and style, then the CT680 is your truck,” Schmitz said.
Like the Cat CT660 and CT681, the CT680 is backed by bumper-to-bumper service at more than 400 Cat dealer locations across North America.
More information about the CT680 and the rest of the Cat Vocational Truck line is available at www.drivecat.com.
Lift & Access is part of the Catalyst Communications Network publication family.
