Caterpillar Inc. and Trimble have reached a definitive agreement to form Caterpillar Trimble Control Technologies LLC.

The joint venture will be based in Dayton, OH, and is expected to begin operations in April 2002. Having worked together for the past six years on machine control technology projects, the partners will develop advanced electronic guidance and control products for earthmoving machines in the construction, mining and waste industries.

As 50-50 partners, each will market, distribute, service and support the products using its company’s independent distribution channels. Caterpillar and Trimble will be highlighting machine control technology at each of their booths at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2002 in Las Vegas from March 19-23.

For more information, visit www.cat.com or www.trimble.com.