Caterpillar, Navistar joint venture, NC2, set to launch Australian operations

NC2 Global LLC, the global joint venture between Caterpillar Inc. and Navistar International Corporation, is set to launch Australian operations, with truck sales to begin mid-year.

“Australia is a top priority market for us, and we are committed to taking full advantage of its strong potential,” said Al Saltiel, NC2 president.

The joint venture leverages the potent combination of Navistar’s truck manufacturing expertise and Caterpillar’s powerful global network. Headquartered in Lisle, Ill., a 2010 business plan has been formalized embracing high-potential markets, with initial focus on Australia, Brazil and South Africa and has taken a number of concrete steps focused on the high-priority Australian market:

• Committed to establishing an Australian truck assembly facility in Tullamarine, Victoria. The plant, which will incorporate world-class assembly, quality and safety systems, will be located in a portion of an existing Caterpillar manufacturing facility.
• Appointed Australian personnel, including three key positions in sales and marketing; manufacturing and finance, that began work in-country March 1.
• Put in place an Australian product and brand strategy, including medium, heavy and vocational vehicles. Cat® product details and specifications will be made available in the coming weeks.
• Applied for membership in the Truck Industry Council (TIC), an independent organisation that represents the united views of Australian truck manufacturers, importers, diesel engine companies and major component suppliers.

“Our vision is to bring together our parent companies’ complementary strengths and to work as one to take excellent care of our customers,” said Saltiel. “Next week at ITTS, we will be announcing specific product plans and dealer arrangements that reflect our commitment to provide Australian customers world-class product and support.”