Caterpillar is expanding its Home and Outdoor Power product line with the introduction of a portable inverter generator. Inverter technology is a first in Caterpillar's long history of power generation. Caterpillar engineers designed the Cat INV2000 with consumer usability features, like an easy start switch, along with professional performance and safety features (OSHA compliant GFCI), making it a versatile generator for both contractor and recreation use. Caterpillar will also offer a parallel kit, enabling users to connect two INV2000 units together, to double power output.
The INV2000 produces 1800 watts running (12.5 percent more power than leading competitive models) and 2250 watts starting - that's enough to power camping essentials as well as small to mid-sized power tools (circular saws, etc). The new generator provides an ultra-clean power (< 3 percent total harmonic distortion) that will safely power the most sensitive electronics. Noise levels are competitive in the product category - 52-61 dB (depending on load) - which translates to barely-there white-noise in most environments.
At only 49 lbs (22.2 kg), the INV2000 is easily portable and convenient to store. Intuitive controls, including the easy-start switch with integrated choke, multiple outlets and operational indicator lights, are situated centrally on the front facing panel. The unique LED illumination of the control panel makes night operation especially convenient.
Along with two GFCI 120V 20A outlets, this generator has two built-in USB ports for charging sensitive electronics such as phones, tablets and Bluetooth speakers. The unit also features a 12V battery charging outlet, along with a cable, for easy charging of automotive style batteries.
The INV2000 is built with a fuel efficient 79.7 cc overhead valve (OHV) engine that is EPA certified to last 20% longer than leading competitive models. Engine Smart Control mode adjusts the power output to automatically control fuel consumption and noise based on load, giving users a generous 6 hours of continuous run time on one tank of fuel (at 50 percent load).
Caterpillar solved some of the common hassles with inverter generator maintenance with the INV2000 design. Dual access doors (versus a single door) on the side of the inverter provide easy access for basic maintenance procedures such as oil changes, air filter changes and carburetor draining. The custom oil fill design with a threaded oil funnel enables completely dripless oil filling and draining, preventing mess and smoking caused by spills inside the generator.
