Caterpillar plans to launch a new front shovel (FS) excavator for the first time in 15 years.
Designed for mine and quarry operators, Cat says its new 395 front shovel large excavator takes advantage of standard next-generation features and enhances operator comfort and control.
“The 395 FS has an official target launch of October 2025,” says Vincent Migeotte, senior product and sales consultant at Caterpillar, which introduced the 395 FS at Bauma 2025.
According to Migeotte, three primary objectives were at the top of the design wish list for the 395 FS: robust digging and breakout force, lightning-quick loading cycles and rigorous bucket fill.
“Customers repeatedly told us that they need a machine that not only offers peak performance, but that can operate consistently at those peak levels,” Migeotte says. “That’s borne out in the 395 FS with a maximum ground-level digging force up to truck height, matched by a powerful breakout force at the bucket cutting edge that promises superior material penetration and optimal bucket fill factors.
“And, of course, that’s complemented by bucket capability,” he adds. “Here’s a machine that’s compatible with bucket volumes up to 6.5 cu. meters, or maximum material density of up to 1.85 tons per cu. meter. That offers operators a big boost in productivity.”
Caterpillar says its values of durability, reliability and serviceability are woven throughout the 395 FS’s design. It’s evident in features such as the reinforced, extra-durable undercarriage and additional cylinder guards – plus long-life fuel and hydraulic oil filters to reduce costs and downtime.
“Of course, a machine only delivers its best performance when it works in harmony with its operator, which is why we’ve paid so much attention to operator optimization through next-generation developments,” Migeotte says. “The 395 FS has been engineered with a parallelogram-type front linkage, coupled with a master cylinder that allows the operator to extract the machine’s maximum capability.
“By keeping the bucket parallel to the ground, the operator can optimize penetration, loading, sorting and breaking, and complete a smooth floor cleanup when the hard work’s over,” he adds. “Building the 395 FS around the next-generation cab, we’ve also fitted a fixed riser, which allows the operator to see above the side of the truck body while loading. Premium work task visibility helps increase both productivity and worksite safety.”
In addition, Cat says operator-oriented in-cab controls are easily accessible, enhancing material penetration, fast loading and smooth floor cleanup. Inside, the cab features an ergonomic seat, a touchscreen display, climate control and noise insulation, along with vibration reduction.
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