The Caterpillar 12M2 is equipped with low-emitting, fuel-efficient engines meeting Tier 4 Interim emission standards and is designed for a broad range of tasks, including heavy blade work, road  maintenance, snow removal and precision-finishing. It is similar to the 120M2, but is designed for applications that require more performance. The 12M2 offers additional enhancements over the previous model with a longer wheelbase, a larger displacement engine, more power and torque, and the all-wheel-drive option (12M2 AWD), is available for the first time on a 12-size motor grader.

The new M Series 2 models are powered by Cat VHP (variable horsepower) engines with ACERT technology and all have wider net-horsepower ranges than their M Series predecessors. The 12M2 and 12M2 AWD come equipped with the larger C9.3 ACERT engine. Maximum net power ratings for the models, respectively, are 223 hp and 243 hp. Operating weight when typically equipped is 42,383 lbs. and 44,349 lbs., respectively.

Variable Horsepower Plus (VHP Plus) is now standard on the full line-up of M Series 2 machine models, delivering additional horsepower in each forward gear 5th through 8th for more power at higher speeds. The system limits horsepower in lower gears, which helps reduce wheel slip where traction is limited. This optimizes rimpull in all gears by balancing traction, speed, and horsepower while conserving fuel.

Both engines utilize the Cat NOx Reduction System and Caterpillar designed aftertreatment technologies to meet Tier 4 Interim emissions standards. The Cat Regeneration System is designed to work transparently, without any interaction needed from the operator. A soot level monitor can be viewed on the Cat Messenger screen and regeneration indicator lights are integrated into the front console. 

The new M Series 2 models feature Caterpillar's hallmark control system, which uses two electronic joysticks designed to reduce hand and wrist movement by nearly 80 percent, compared with conventional controls.

The new motor graders also feature electronic vertical adjustment of the joystick control pods, allowing operators to tailor joystick height for optimum control and comfort. The spacious M Series 2 cab, with standard air conditioning, uses angled doors, and a patented sloping rear window to afford excellent visibility to the heel and toe of the moldboard and to the ripper.

Features include:

• Cab and controls that enhance operator comfort and productivity.

• Serviceability features offer ease of maintenance, as well as the ability to quickly adjust the drawbar, circle and moldboard for precise material control and reduced operating costs.

• Electro-hydraulics enable advanced machine control with precise and predictable movements.

• Standard Automatic Differential Lock unlocks the differential during a turn, re-locks when straight, for easier operation and lower power train protection.

• All-wheel drive models offer precise control and increased power for improved performance in a variety of applications.

• Like all Cat motor graders, M Series 2 models are designed with features to enhance operator and jobsite safety including secondary steering, hydraulic lockout, redundant brake systems, circle drive slip clutch and walkways/grab rails.

All M Series 2 models feature the new Cat Grade Control Cross Slope system.  Cat Grade Control is a complete machine control and guidance system which is fully integrated with standard machine components at the factory.  This optional factory-installed and calibrated cross slope system provides automatic cross slope control capability, ready to operate from the moment it leaves the factory.  In addition, Cat Cross Slope is fully upgradeable and compatible with AccuGrade systems to grow with customers. The motor graders will also continue to offer the AccuGrade Ready Option which provides all the mounting hardware, controls, and harnesses for easy installation of all AccuGrade kits.

Motor grader users can also utilize Cat Product Link, which allows remote monitoring of equipment to improve overall fleet-management effectiveness. Product Link is deeply integrated into machine systems. Events and diagnostic codes, as well as hours, fuel, idle time and other detailed information are transmitted to a secure web based application, VisionLink. VisionLink includes powerful tools to convey information to users and dealers, including mapping, working and idle time, fuel level, and more.