Caterpillar’s 7-tonne (15,500 lb) forklifts belong primarily to the DP70 series of heavy-duty diesel counterbalance trucks. These machines are engineered for demanding industrial and outdoor applications—steel yards, lumber yards, ports, stevedoring, concrete and stone handling, and heavy manufacturing. The DP70 series spans multiple generations, with variants including the DP70, DP70N, DP70N1, DP70N3, and DP70NH.
Key Models Overview
Model Production Years Engine Power Weight
DP70 1996–2014 Mitsubishi S6S 91 hp 9.3 t
DP70N ~2015–2019 Mitsubishi S6S 107 hp ~9.5 t
DP70N1 2019–2023 Perkins 854F 75 kW (100 hp) 9.42–9.52 t
DP70N3 2021–2026 Kubota V3800 81 kW (109 hp) 9.54 t
DP70NH Current Isuzu 6BG1 6.5L diesel 9.36 t
Detailed Specifications
DP70N3 (2021–2026) – Current Production Model
Specification Detail
Load Capacity 7,000 kg (15,500 lbs)
Load Center 600 mm
Engine Kubota V3800, 81 kW (109 hp), 4-cylinder, 3.769L
Emission Level Stage V
Weight 9.54 tonnes (21,032 lbs)
Total Width 2,010 mm (79.1 in)
Construction Height 2,550 mm (100.4 in)
Turning Radius 3.46 m (136.2 in)
Lifting Height 3.0 m (118 in)
Travel Speed (loaded/unloaded) 25 / 28 km/h
Max Climbing Ability 28%
Standard Tires Front & Rear: 8.25X15-14PR
DP70NH – Heavy-Duty Variant
The DP70NH is part of the DP70-100NH range (7.0–10.0 tonnes) and features the powerful Isuzu 6BG1 6.5L direct-injection diesel engine. Key attributes include:
One of the highest lift speeds in its class
Automatic 2-speed Powershift transmission
Presence Detection System (PDS) with seat belt warning and safety interlock
Boltless floorboards for tool-free maintenance access
Durable LED lights as standard equipment
High-visibility mast with narrow channels
Specification Detail
Load Capacity 7,000 kg
Load Center 600 mm
Weight 9,360 kg
Wheelbase 2,250 mm
Tire Size (Front/Rear) 8.25X15-14PR
DP70N1 (2019–2023)
Specification Detail
Load Capacity 7,000 kg
Engine Perkins 854F, 75 kW (100 hp), 3.4L, 4-cylinder
Weight 9.42 t
Total Width 2,170 mm
Turning Radius 3.31 m
Lifting Height 3.1 m
Travel Speed (loaded/unloaded) 25 / 29 km/h
Max Climbing Ability 35%
DP70N (2015–2019)
Specification Detail
Load Capacity 15,500 lbs (7.03 t)
Engine Mitsubishi S6S, 107 hp, 6-cylinder
Mast 2-stage, 154" lowered / 219" raised
Turning Radius 12.5 ft (3.81 m)
Travel Speed (loaded/unloaded) 15.5 / 16 mph
Gradeability (loaded) 25%
2026 Pricing Guide
Cat 7-ton forklift prices vary significantly based on model, age, condition, and configuration.
Condition Price Range
New (Mid-Range 4–7 tons) $30,000 – $65,000
New (Heavy-Duty 10+ tons) $65,000 – $125,000+
Used (General) $10,000 – $50,000
Used (Well-Maintained) ~$31,500
Note: New 30,000 lb class diesel forklifts can list at $180,000–$260,000; 50,000 lb models often exceed $400,000. Always verify mast configuration, attachments, and service history when evaluating used units.
Buying Considerations
1. Choose the Right Generation
DP70 (1996–2014) : Older models with proven reliability; may lack modern emissions compliance.
DP70N (2015–2019) : Mid-generation with improved power and visibility.
DP70N1 (2019–2023) : Perkins-powered with Stage V emissions.
DP70N3 (2021–2026) : Current production with Kubota engine and Stage V compliance.
DP70NH: Heavy-duty variant with Isuzu 6.5L engine and advanced features.
2. Evaluate Your Application
The DP70 series is specifically designed for stevedoring, empty container handling, metal industries, lumber, concrete, stone, clay, glass, industrial machinery, and brick handling.
3. Consider Total Cost of Ownership
Diesel models offer immediate refueling and high torque for tough conditions. Stage V engines provide 40% reduction in fine particle emissions and 15% reduction in fuel consumption compared to previous generations.
4. Inspect Used Units Thoroughly
Most used units are sold "as-is, where-is" . Check hour meter reading, engine condition, mast wear, hydraulic system, and tire condition.
5. Verify Attachments and Configuration
Available attachments include fork positioner, hinged forks, rotating forks, and bale clamps. Mast configurations vary from 2-stage to 3-stage with lift heights up to 4.0 meters or more.
Summary
Caterpillar’s 7-tonne forklift lineup is built around the DP70 series of heavy-duty diesel counterbalance trucks. The DP70N3 (2021–2026) is the current production model with a Kubota V3800 engine, Stage V emissions compliance, 9.54-tonne weight, and 25 km/h travel speed. The DP70NH offers the Isuzu 6BG1 6.5L engine with advanced features including the Presence Detection System and tool-free maintenance access. Older generations—DP70, DP70N, and DP70N1—remain widely available in the used market. New mid-range units typically range from $30,000 to $65,000, while used models can be found from $10,000 to $50,000 depending on age and condition.