It appears that the upgrades at the plant are meant to prepare it for the eventual development of Cummins’ fuel-agnostic engine platform, a series of engines designed to run on fuels such as natural gas and hydrogen and derived from a common base engine.

Set to be released in 2024, Cummins claims that the X15N natural gas engine delivers diesel-like performance in terms of power, durability and reliability.

Cummins said the acquisition would secure long-term access to the technology and facilities required by Cummins Emissions Solutions to meet the demand for low-emission products.

The intention is to market Terex Advance Commander Series trucks with diesel and hydrogen engine options once series production of the Cummins ‘X15H’ begins as planned in the latter part of this decade.

The JV aims to manufacture battery cells for commercial electric vehicles at a 21-gigawatt hour (GWh) factory that is anticipated to cost between USD 2-3 billion. The emphasis is on pioneering better battery chemistries that last longer, are safer, lower in cost and are more environmentally sustainable, preferably without the need for nickel and cobalt raw materials.

This new and expanded alliance – which builds on an agreement signed in 2021 – will extend to “renewable gasoline blends, biodiesel and renewable diesel” as well as hydrogen and renewable natural gas.

At the company’s East Asia Research & Development Centre, the upcoming ‘X15H’ engine was presented alongside Meritor axles, aftertreatment systems, and ‘Endurant’ transmissions.

She will replace Tom Linebarger, who will leave his role as Executive Chairman and Chair of the Board.

Hydrogenics’ fuel cell and electrolyser capabilities will be incorporated within Cummins’ new business unit for zero-emission technologies called ‘Accelera’.

This report is based on trips to the Turbo Technologies facility in Huddersfield and to the third Hydrogen for Life conference in London, both taking place in June 2023.

The American manufacturer claims the new alloy will make its engines more durable and efficient than was previously possible. 

Cummins has had Euro VI engines in the market in Europe since 2013, with first introduction of on-board-diagnostic compliance tools for heavy-duty vehicles having been in 2010.