The Shandong SEM Machinery Co. (SEM) just began mass production of a new series of wheel loaders that are generating more orders from overseas. The first new 659C rolled off the assembly line on March 19, followed by a 669C on March 23.

Both new models are upgraded products with more sophisticated technology. For example, the new SEM160 transmission was based on CAT technology but produced locally. SEM also plans to equip future C-series products with Perkins engines and a new SI axle to better meet requirements by Indian and other markets.

SEM has received orders for its new C-series wheel loaders as soon as they rolled off the line. The number of orders is expected to rise to hundreds by the end of this year. The product line is also set to expand, with production of 658C and 668C set to starts shortly.

The success of the new C-series represents great team efforts by various departments at SEM, including marketing research, product concept design, pilot machine design and production, and product certification.