Cummins reveals net zero solutions

Both products are described as bridge or transition technologies to help reduce carbon emissions for vehicles and other equipment in the run-up to 2050, when the UK has pledged to go net zero.

First, Cummins reported that an unnamed vehicle OEM is planning to launch an internal engine combustion vehicle in 2025-2026 running on hydrogen rather than diesel. What is envisaged is a spark-ignited engine using a conventional engine block, with an engine head adapted for hydrogen. In 2023 it launched the concept, including the 15l X15 engine with heads for diesel, natural gas or hydrogen gas fuel; US versions will use gasoline or propane.

At a technical press day in Huddersfield on June 8, 2023, Cummins shared these figures: a 15l, 450hp hydrogen-powered engine offering 500 miles of range from 80kg of hydrogen stored at 700bar. It said that this vehicle would be 2,500lbs (1,134kg) heavier than a comparable diesel Class 8 sleeper cab truck, referring to the American designation of an artic, and accounted for the weight premium on the hydrogen storage tanks.