Cummins Inc. (NYSE: CMI) has taken another step forward in advancing zero
carbon technology as the company began testing a hydrogen-fueled internal
combustion engine. The proof-of-concept test is building on Cummins’
existing technology leadership in gaseous-fuel applications and powertrain
leadership to create new power solutions that help customers meet the energy
and environmental needs of the future.
“Cummins is thrilled about the potential of the hydrogen engine to reduce
emissions and provide power and performance for customers,” said Srikanth
Padmanabhan, President of the Engine Segment. “We are using all new engine
platforms equipped with the latest technologies to improve power density,
reduce friction and improve thermal efficiency, allowing us to avoid the
typical performance limitations and efficiency compromises associated with
converting diesel or natural gas engines over to hydrogen fuel. We have made
significant technological advancements and will continue moving forward. We
are optimistic about bringing this solution to market.”
Following the proof-of-concept testing, the company plans to evaluate the
engine in a variety of on- and off-highway applications, supporting the
company’s efforts to accelerate the decarbonization of commercial vehicles.
“The hydrogen engine program can potentially expand the technology options
available to achieve a more sustainable transport sector, complementing our
capabilities in hydrogen fuel cell, battery electric and renewable natural
gas powertrains,” said Jonathon White, Vice-President of Engine Business
Engineering.
Hydrogen engines offer OEMs and end-users the benefit of adaptability by
continuing to use familiar mechanical drivelines with vehicle and equipment
integration mirroring that of current powertrains while continuing to
provide the power and capability for meeting application needs.
The hydrogen engines can use green hydrogen fuel, produced by
Cummins-manufactured electrolyzers, emitting near zero CO2 emissions through
the tailpipe and near zero levels of NOx. The projected investment in
renewable hydrogen production globally will provide a growing opportunity
for the deployment of hydrogen-powered fleets utilizing either Cummins fuel
cell or engine power.
Integrating Hydrogen Technology
Cummins is investing across a range of technologies to support
hydrogen-based transportation including hydrogen engines, fuel cells,
electrolyzers and storage tanks.
The high energy density of hydrogen enables easily integrated on-board gas
storage without compromising either the vehicle payload or operating range.
Cummins’ joint venture partnership with hydrogen storage specialist NPROXX
adds the ability to integrate the fuel cell or hydrogen engine with the
high-pressure gas cylinder tanks and supply lines on the vehicle. NPROXX is
also a leading supplier of containerized storage vessels, enabling fast
hydrogen refueling for end users.
Cummins’ pivotal role in expanding the hydrogen ecosphere goes beyond fuel
cells and storage solutions to the manufacture of decarbonized renewable
hydrogen, with the experience of more than 600 electrolyzer installations
across the globe. The modular scalability of our electrolyzers is ideally
suited for a range of applications, from the localized supply of truck and
bus fleets to utility-scale electrolysis. Cummins has unique hydrogen
capabilities extending from fuel production to storage and vehicle power.
About Cummins Inc.
Cummins Inc., a global power leader, is a corporation of complementary
business segments that design, manufacture, distribute and service a broad
portfolio of power solutions. The company’s products range from diesel,
natural gas, electric and hybrid powertrains and powertrain-related
components including filtration, aftertreatment, turbochargers, fuel
systems, controls systems, air handling systems, automated transmissions,
electric power generation systems, batteries, electrified power systems,
hydrogen generation and fuel cell products. Headquartered in Columbus,
Indiana (U.S.), since its founding in 1919, Cummins employs approximately
57,825 people committed to powering a more prosperous world through three
global corporate responsibility priorities critical to healthy communities:
education, environment and equality of opportunity. Cummins serves its
customers online, through a network of company-owned and independent
distributor locations, and through thousands of dealer locations worldwide
and earned about $1.8 billion on sales of $19.8 billion in 2020. See how
Cummins is powering a world that’s always on by accessing news releases and
more information at https://www.cummins.com/always
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