Caterpillar recently formed an alliance agreement with Exodus Machines for the design and supply of material handlers to be sold and supported exclusively by Cat dealers. The Exodus machines will be available immediately in North America and will complement Caterpillar’s current line of wheel and track material handlers greater than 25 metric tons. The products will carry the Exodus brand name but will transition to the Cat brand in 2013.

The alliance agreement follows Caterpillar’s recent formation of a new strategic business unit, the Caterpillar Industrial & Waste Group, which is part of the Diversified Products Division.

“Bringing together Exodus’ intense focus on material handlers and their innovative designs with our unmatched distribution and product support capabilities, the alliance creates a force that will serve customers well,” said Bill Springer, Caterpillar vice president.

Exodus Machines, based in Superior, Wis., was incorporated three years ago and is known for innovative designs. Each of its material handlers features an industry-exclusive cab that lowers to the ground for easier entry, exit and maintenance access. The units also feature independent planetary wheel drive for true all-wheel-drive.

“It’s rewarding for our entire team to have Caterpillar acknowledge the value that the machines we developed bring to customers,” said Bruce Bacon, founder and president of Exodus.

In support of the alliance agreement, Caterpillar acquired a minority equity interest in a new entity Exodus Machines LLC, formed by Exodus. Exodus plans to expand manufacturing in the Superior area and is working to secure working capital and capital funding, developing plant layouts, assessing building sites and estimating needs for new employees.