HOUSTON, TEXAS (September 30, 2005) - Continuing its legendary commitment to quality products and superior customer service, Cat® Lift Trucks recently officially opened its new Customer Focus Area located within the manufacturing facility.

Dealers, who recently attended the annual Cat lift truck dealer meetings, were the first to see the Customer Focus Area in full operation. They witnessed how the company's auditors staff the 24-foot X 24 foot area and randomly select Cat Lift Trucks as they roll off the assembly line for inspection, which can take between four to five hours to complete for each truck.

"With more than 100 items to check, our inspections are rigorous and focus on four main areas: work order accuracy; performance and assembly; critical torque; and overall appearance," said Manager of Corporate Quality John Kristoff. "I think the dealers were impressed with the time we take out of the production day to make sure everything is right."

The meticulous inspection includes an extensive engine diagnostic test, review of brakes, fluid levels, drive train, steer axle and mounting, welding, quality of paint finish, customer requested options and more, he added.

According to Kristoff, inspection ratings are prioritized and used to identify opportunities for improvement in design, production or feature options.

"Cat Lift Trucks' inspection results are tabulated and reported to the company's executive committee on a weekly basis. We are constantly measuring, evaluating and testing our systems to review ways to continually improve quality," Kristoff added.

Kristoff noted that the Customer Focus Area was just another step the company had taken to achieve the highest standard of quality and customer service, which is what Cat lift trucks customers have come to expect.

"That's the reason we positioned the Customer Focus Area within clear view of the production line. All employees know how important quality is at Cat Lift Trucks. It's not something that we hide, as do many other manufacturers. Our employees take great pride in their work, and we think it is a good idea to let them see quality audits and learn the results.

Headquartered in Houston, Texas, Cat Lift Trucks offers a full line of durable lift trucks with capacities ranging from 2,200 to 33,000 lbs. With more than 300 dealer locations throughout North and South America, Cat Lift Trucks is committed to having the industry's most extensive customer support programs in the industry. Recognized for its legendary durability and quality, Cat Lift trucks continues to be Everything You've Come to Expect - productivity, quality and low cost of ownership. For more information contact your local Cat lift truck dealer at 1-800-CAT-LIFT or visit www.cat-lift.com