Caterpillar announces Next Generation M323, specifically designed for railroad applications

This next generation machine helps boost efficiency, productivity and operator comfort. The redesign has also extensively incorporated feedback from users in the field.

Highlights

  • Cab revisions improve operator comfort, safety and visibility.
  • Easier access to service and maintenance points.
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IRVING, Texas, March 7, 2025―Caterpillar has upgraded its M323F road-to-rail excavator, announcing a fresh model built on the company’s next generation platform.

This next generation machine helps boost efficiency, productivity and operator comfort. The redesign has also extensively incorporated feedback from users in the field.

The M323F’s ability to switch effortlessly from rail to road has made it a well-recognized machine amongst operators across Europe. By introducing the Next Generation M323, not only do we open up a further sector to the benefits of the next generation platform, but we’ve also increased the appeal of this machine by offering a platform configuration that’s adaptable to a broader customer base.

The M323 is a comprehensive reworking of the M323F, focusing on operator comfort, ease of service, performance and safety. About the only thing we haven’t changed is the engine, which remains the trusted and proven Cat® C4.4, offering up to 129.4 kW fed to all-wheel drive and is EU Stage V compliant.

Jerome Perard

Market Professional

Europe

Two transmission types―hydrostatic (9A) and friction (9C)―are available on the M323 and can be used with either the Long Tail or Short Tail configurations. A hybrid solution combining the hydrostatic and friction options is also available to provide maximum value and meet country regulations.

Improved operator comfort is one of the most significant aspects of this next generation upgrade, with the M323 now sporting a single shell cab for both operator and passenger. The new cab offers greater visibility to the front, while Caterpillar’s decision to lower the counterweight has also improved visibility to the rear. Moreover, the new 9C Long Tail configuration now offers the same visibility as the standard model.

The cab revisions have also improved accessibility, while the simple addition of lighted steps aids safety. Caterpillar’s renowned safety technologies are a continued presence on the M323.

 

Easier service and maintenance continue to feature highly amongst user requests which is why we’ve focused on improvements to fuel and AdBlue filling, as well as providing simpler access to the battery. 

Jerome Perard

Market Professional

Europe

Changes to access checkpoints, including the engine and cooling compartments, take the hassle out of daily maintenance tasks – making them easier and faster to complete.

The new M323 doesn’t stint on performance either. Caterpillar engineers worked diligently to help enhance customer efficiency in daily operations with the new hydraulic pump, mechanical air compressor, and increased swing torque capability. Additionally, extra electrical power is available at the lower part of the machine for installing additional systems.

Despite the upgraded features and design, the M323 retains the same 23-tonne machine weight.

 

It might retain the model name for familiarity, but the redesigned M323 is very much a new machine in every respect. To bring a platform configuration that’s adaptable to every industry, with options for specific segments, and simultaneously taking safety, operator comfort and machine performance to new heights, is to set a new reference point, with better value that meets operators’ expectations head-on.

Jerome Perard

Market Professional

Europe

For more information about the Cat M323 Excavator, contact a Cat dealer or visit: www.cat.com

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Cat M323 rendering

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Cat M323 rendering

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Cat M323 rendering

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Cat M323 rendering

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Cat M323 rendering

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Cat M323 rendering

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About Caterpillar:
With 2024 sales and revenues of $64.8 billion, Caterpillar Inc. is the world’s leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, off-highway diesel and natural gas engines, industrial gas turbines and diesel-electric locomotives. For 100 years, we’ve been helping customers build a better, more sustainable world and are committed and contributing to a reduced-carbon future. Our innovative products and services, backed by our global dealer network, provide exceptional value that helps customers succeed. Caterpillar does business on every continent, principally operating through three primary segments – Construction Industries, Resource Industries and Energy & Transportation – and providing financing and related services through our Financial Products segment. Visit us at caterpillar.com or join the conversation on our social media channels at caterpillar.com/en/news/social-media.html.

NOTE TO EDITORS: Caterpillar rolls out products and services in each of its regions at different time intervals. Although every effort is made to ensure that product information is released only after Caterpillar has received confirmation from its independent dealer network, plants, and marketing subsidiaries that products and services are available in the relevant region, editors are kindly requested to verify with a Cat dealer for product availability and specifications.

CAT, CATERPILLAR, LET’S DO THE WORK, their respective logos, “Caterpillar Corporate Yellow,” the “Power Edge” and Cat “Modern Hex” trade dress, as well as corporate and product identity used herein, are trademarks of Caterpillar and may not be used without permission.

VisionLink is a trademark of Caterpillar Inc., registered in the United States and in other countries.

 

 

Press Inquiries:

Amy Doughty
Caterpillar Trade Press Media Representative
amy.doughty@cat.com
 
For Release: Europe
Release Number: 39PR25 — March 2025


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