On the opening day of CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 in Las Vegas, Caterpillar Industrial Power Systems introduced a new twin-turbo 173 hp (129 kW) Cat C3.6 diesel engine engineered for small- to medium-sized construction equipment.
The 3.6 liter engine delivers up to 546 lb ft (740 Nm) at 1500 rpm and represents a 21% power increase over previous 3.6 liter models meeting U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final and EU Stage V emissions standards. Engineers upgraded the combustion system and reinforced core components to achieve higher output without increasing engine size or complexity.
The engine supports up to 1000-hour oil and fuel filter intervals and is compatible with B20 biodiesel, 100% hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) and other fuels meeting Cat specifications.
“The customer requirement for high power density to boost machine capability without increasing engine size or complexity has driven the launch of this new high horsepower C3.6 and the C13D which we unveiled at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2023,” said Steve Ferguson, senior vice president of Caterpillar Industrial Power Systems. “Given that internal combustion engines remain the dominant power solution across global jobsites; we continue to strategically invest in advanced diesel engine technologies that help customers tackle their daily challenges.”
C13D and Diesel-Electric Options
Also featured in the South Hall exhibit is the Cat C13D diesel platform, offering eight power ratings from 456 to 690 hp (340 to 515 kW) and up to 3,200 Nm of peak torque. Engine-mounted aftertreatment and cooling packs are available to simplify OEM installation.
A C9.3B equipped with a factory-integrated diesel-electric power unit is also on display. The diesel-electric system is designed for industrial applications requiring robust auxiliary power and is expected to be available from late 2026 across the C3.6 to C13 product range.
The exhibit also includes the 74 hp Cat C2.2, the 800 hp series-turbocharged C18TT and a Cat Reman C7 engine.
Lifecycle and Connectivity Focus
Beyond engines, the booth highlights connectivity and lifecycle support including VisionLink, service replacement engines, overhaul options and Cat Reman solutions. Dealer support and Cat Rental Store options are also emphasized as part of a full-fleet support strategy.
“As the construction landscape changes, our extensive portfolio of solutions and expertise, from full-fleet jobsites through to a full range of optimized diesel engines, will help solve our customers toughest challenges,” Ferguson said.
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