During a recent teleconference, executives from Cummins Inc. gave updates on the state of the company and explained plans for future technologies, including its core business, electrification, alternative fuels and power solutions, as well as in digital capabilities, data and analytics.

Company updates given by Cummins included:

• Cummins says it will begin electrified powertrain delivery in 2019, including battery electric and plug-in hybrids. The company is exploring potentially partnering with others to ensure development of leading technology in energy storage, power electronics, traction motor systems and component control for commercial applications.
• Cummins intends to expand its offerings of alternative fuels and power solutions by investing in research and development projects and developing high efficiency gasoline technology that can deliver diesel-like performance and durability, meeting the most stringent emission requirements while maintaining competitive fuel economy.
• Longer term, the company’s Research and Technology Department continues to investigate the viability of alternatives like bio-fuels, synthetic fuels and hydrogen. Cummins has also invested in exploratory projects focused on Proton Exchange Membrane and Solid Oxide Fuel Cell technologies—both with increasing potential to offer superior power density over the traditional internal combustion engine, Cummins says.
• In May, Cummins formed a new internal organization led by Sherry Aaholm, Cummins’ chief information officer, called the Digital Accelerator. This new organization seeks to streamline innovation, bringing concepts from the idea stage to commercialization at the most efficient and effective pace, Cummins says.

“As a global power leader for the commercial and industrial markets we serve, we are better positioned than any other company to win in new and emerging technologies,” said Tom Linebarger, Cummins’ chairman and chief executive officer. “Over the past 100 years, our ability to innovate and adapt has fueled our success and we are confident we are on the right path to do it again at this critical juncture. We are prepared to provide a range of power technologies to our customers from diesel and natural gas to fully electric and hybrid powertrains to ensure they always have the best solution for their application.”