At this year’s Public Works Expo, Caterpillar introduced its new Cat 140 Lever Motor Grader (140 LVR), giving attendees a first look at a machine designed to merge traditional operator preferences with cutting-edge technology.
“This machine is an all-new ground up design for us,” said Eric Kohout, product application specialist for motor graders at Caterpillar, during a live interview at the company's booth.
“It’s currently a lever machine, but we also have a joystick offering as well. The cab and controls are different, but a lot of the content on the rest of the machine is common between them.”
Versatility in Operation
The 140 LVR has been engineered with versatility in mind. Customers can configure the grader with either rear tandem drive or all-wheel drive, depending on jobsite needs. The machine is compatible with multiple front attachments, including dozer blades, snow plows, and front scarifiers.
Eric Kohout giving a product walk around at PWX2025.Brandon Noel
For public works professionals, who make up the core users of the 140, this enhanced flexibility is the key.
“Yes, this size is kind of the sweet spot for municipalities and counties,” Kohout explained.
The company's press release echoed that point, noting that the 140’s power-to-weight ratio provides, “a ‘sweet spot’ power-to-weight ratio with excellent fuel consumption rates."
Maintenance Made Simple
Reducing downtime has been a clear priority. The new “High Performance circle” replaces traditional shims and shoes with an excavator-style bearing, eliminating the need for frequent adjustments.
“There is no need for shimming or centering that circle underneath the draw bar,” Kohout explained. “That’s all literally gone away. Other than greasing, there’s no maintenance.”
Serviceability improvements continue throughout the machine: bolt-on rippers, outboard articulation cylinders, grouped filters, barrel-hinged engine doors, and repositioned DEF components.
“We’re trying to make it easier for technicians to be able to do service and upkeep, and keep these machines going,” Kohout said.
According to Caterpillar’s release, the 140 LVR also benefits from, “extended and synchronized maintenance intervals plus centralized service points,” which they believe will significantly improve uptime.
Next Generation Cab and Operator Comfort
Inside, the machine introduces the next-gen cab which should already familiar from the Cat 120 model. Visibility has been a major design focus. The rear C-pillar has been shifted behind the operator, creating uninterrupted side and rear views.
“The biggest thing here for operators is visibility,” Kohout explained. “People making passes and backing up in alleys now have excellent visibility. We’re just opening up that working envelope.”
Other operator-friendly upgrades include:
- A quieter, brushless HVAC system positioned overhead for better airflow.
- New heated and ventilated seat options.
- Sliding side windows and redesigned doors that resist wind swing and are easier to release.
- An updated transmission with nine speeds, adding a slower gear to reduce inching pedal use.
Technology Ready!
Even in its lever configuration, the 140 LVR is wired for advanced grade control. Cat Product Link and VisionLink telematics come standard, enabling real-time monitoring and pushing maintenance intervals directly to the operator’s display.
Kohout highlighted the benefits of integrated grade technology. The grader also includes optional 3D integrated massless systems, Cat Grade Cross Slope Assist, and the Stable Blade anti-bounce feature, making it appealing to both seasoned operators and those still building their skills.
“What operators absolutely love is they can focus on their work,” he said. “They’re not worried about those masts catching on trees or limiting moldboard angles. Now they can do slope work, high bank work, and still have a grade system always available.”
Safety and Situational Awareness
Safety enhancements include LED lights as standard and a full array of camera packages. Buyers can choose between rear-only, front-and-rear, or full 360-degree camera systems with people-detection alerts. This thing has cameras pointed in every direction, and what that results in, is a safer machine for the operators, as well as those on the ground.
“We literally have a 360 camera setup so you can see all the way around the machine,” Kohout explained. “If someone’s behind you, the system puts a box around them and gives you an audible alert.”
The press release reinforces this, noting the, “integrated optional rear, front, and 360-degree-vision cameras, enhanced visibility and redesigned HVAC system and seat adjustment options in the cab”.
Fit for Municipalities, Rental Fleets, and Contractors
The 140 Motor Grader has long been a staple for public agencies and rental
“Over the years, customers have shown that the 140’s usefulness and flexibility have few limits,” said Pablo dos Santos, Caterpillar global product application specialist, in a press release. “Its frame lends itself to easy transportation, and its power and performance have seen it put to work in everything from snow clearance to grading operations”.
As Caterpillar prepares the 140 LVR for its launch, the message is clear: this next generation grader is designed with the operators, technicians, and fleet managers in mind
