American multidisciplinary manufacturer of special equipment – Caterpillar – displays its rich history and professional features. The brand name is a tribute to the first crawler tractor, and the CAT logo is a commitment to minimalism and modern technology.
CAT (Caterpillar): Brand overview
Founded: | April 15, 1925 |
Founder: | C.L. Best |
Headquarters: |
Irving, Texas, U.S. |
Website: | caterpillar.com |
Meaning and History
There are eight versions of the CAT logo, with only minor differences. The shape of the letters and additional mini-inscriptions change.
What is CAT (Caterpillar)?
CAT (Caterpillar) is an American construction machinery brand, equipment, rugged mobile phones, work shoes, and uniforms. In addition, CAT provides financing and insurance services.
1925 – 1931
The first logo of the company is the wavy word “CATERPILLAR.” It is commonly believed that its shape symbolizes the tractor track. This assumption is supported by the small serifs that are located under each sign. The black version of the emblem looks minimalistic. Red is complemented by uneven gray outlines and the words “REG. U. S.”, “PAT. OFF.”.
1931 – 1932
In 1931, the designers changed the font, making it stricter. Rounded lines and rectangular serifs are striking. At the bottom, there are subtle light gray phrases “REG. U. S. “,” PAT. OFF.” and “MADE IN THE UNITED STATES Of AMERICA.” The main color is red.
1932 – 1939
The emblem turned black. The shape of the letters has not changed.
1939 – 1941
The bold points at the ends of the “r” are gone. The strokes are wider and longer. Instead of the inscription “MADE IN THE UNITED STATES Of AMERICA,” its abbreviated version is used: “MADE IN U.S.A..”
1941 – 1957
The font has changed again. The letters are elongated and symmetrical. It increased letter spacing.
1957 – 1967
The distance between the symbols has decreased again. There are more right angles and wider lines. Gone are the additional inscriptions located under the “CATERPILLAR.”
1967 – 1989
The letters have become less bold. On the left is a graphic sign: a black square with a white circle divided into three segments.
1989 – today
The artists removed the miniature square and replaced it with a large yellow triangle in front of “CAT.”
Font and Colors
The current company logo is rectangular. Inside the black geometric shape are the white letters “C,” “A,” and “T.” In the foreground is a yellow isosceles triangle with a dark outline. CAT is an abbreviation for the full name of Caterpillar.
The word “CATERPILLAR” is written in a strict rectangular font from the Helvetica family. Most likely, this is either Helvetica Compressed or Helvetica Inserat Roman. Both typefaces are serif-free and feature consistent strokes of the same thickness.
A bright shade of yellow complements the black and white color scheme. This palette is typical of the last CAT logo, adopted in 1989. Before that, there were monochrome emblems that combined white with black or red.
CAT (Caterpillar) color codes
Mikado Yellow | Hex color: | #ffc500 |
---|---|---|
RGB: | 255 197 0 | |
CMYK: | 0 23 100 0 | |
Pantone: | PMS 7549 C |
Black | Hex color: | #000000 |
---|---|---|
RGB: | 0 0 0 | |
CMYK: | 0 0 0 100 | |
Pantone: | PMS Process Black C |
What does the Caterpillar logo mean?
The word CATERPILLAR on the logo represents an American corporation. The yellow triangle in front of CAT is used as a decorative element. It conveys dynamics, symbolizes stability and innovation.
What kind of triangle is in the CAT logo?
The CAT logo features a yellow triangle. It is isosceles: two sides of the same length with a wide base create a sense of stability.
Are CAT and Caterpillar the same company?
CAT is a flagship brand of Caterpillar Corporation.
What does CAT stand for Caterpillar?
CAT is Caterpillar’s premier brand and sells most of its products. First of all, it is known for specialized vehicles and premium engines.