CAT (Caterpillar) Logo

Caterpillar LogoCaterpillar Logo PNG

Caterpillar, an American diversified manufacturer of specialty equipment, demonstrates its rich history and professional characteristics. The brand name is a tribute to the first crawler tractor, and the CAT logo represents a commitment to minimalism and modern technology.

CAT (Caterpillar): Brand overview

CAT is an acronym for Caterpillar, a company specializing in manufacturing power plants, diesel engines, construction equipment, and various types of earthmoving and transport equipment. In 1904, caterpillar tractors were produced under the Caterpillar brand. The company of the same name was founded in 1925.

Meaning and History

CAT (Caterpillar) Logo History

There are eight variants of the CAT logo, having only minor differences. The shape of the letters and additional mini-inscriptions change.

What is CAT (Caterpillar)?

CAT (Caterpillar) is an American brand of construction equipment, machinery, rugged cell phones, work boots, and uniforms. CAT also provides financing and insurance services.

1925 – 1931

Caterpillar Logo 1925-1931

The first company logo was the wavy word “CATERPILLAR.” It is believed that its shape symbolizes the tractor track. This assumption is confirmed by small serifs located under each sign. The black version of the emblem looks minimalistic. The red color is complemented by uneven gray contours and the words “REG. U. S.” “PAT. OFF.”.

1931 – 1932

Caterpillar Logo 1931-1932

In 1931, the designers changed the typeface, making it more austere. Rounded lines and rectangular serifs catch the eye. At the bottom are the thin, light gray phrases “REG. U. S.,” “PAT. OFF.” and “MADE IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.” The main color is red.

1932 – 1939

Caterpillar Logo 1932-1939

The emblem became black. The shape of the letters did not change.

1939 – 1941

Caterpillar Logo 1939-1941

The bold dots at the ends of the letter “r” disappeared. The strokes became 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

Caterpillar Logo 1941-1957

The typeface changed again. The letters became elongated and symmetrical. The distance between the letters was increased.

1957 – 1967

Caterpillar Logo 1957-1967

The distance between characters decreased again. More right angles and wider lines appeared. The additional lettering below “CATERPILLAR” disappeared.

1967 – 1989

Caterpillar Logo 1967-1989

The letters became less bold. On the left is the graphic mark: a black square with a white circle divided into three segments.

1989 – today

Caterpillar Logo 1989-present

The artists removed the miniature square and replaced it with a large yellow triangle in front of “CAT.”

Font and Colors

CAT Emblem

The current company logo has a rectangular shape. Inside the black geometric figure are the white letters “C,” “A,” and “T”. In the foreground is a yellow isosceles triangle with a dark outline. CAT is an abbreviation of the full name of the company Caterpillar.

CAT Symbol

The word “CATERPILLAR” is written in a strict rectangular font of the Helvetica family. It is most likely either Helvetica Compressed or Helvetica Inserat Roman. Both fonts are sans serif and have uniform strokes of equal thickness.

The bright yellow hue complements the black-and-white color scheme. This palette is characteristic of the last CAT logo, adopted in 1989. Prior to that, there were monochrome emblems in which the white color was combined 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

FAQ

What does the emblem Caterpillar mean?

The word CATERPILLAR on the emblem means an American corporation. The yellow triangle in front of CAT is used as a decorative element. It conveys dynamics symbolize stability and innovation.

What is the triangle on the CAT logo?

The CAT logo is a yellow triangle. It is isosceles: two sides of equal length with a wide base create a sense of stability.

Are CAT and Caterpillar the same company?

CAT is the flagship brand of Caterpillar Corporation.

What does CAT mean to Caterpillar?

CAT is Caterpillar’s flagship brand, under which most of its products are sold. It is primarily known for its specialized vehicles and premium engines.