Cummins’ Creates Game-Changing Innovation for Greener Fleets
Cummins Inc., a pioneering company in the field of spark-ignited natural gas engines for trucks, is set to launch the X15N, a full-size truck engine running on natural gas, by the middle of next year.
The X15N is part of Cummins’ next-generation fuel-agnostic platform, with diesel and hydrogen versions planned for the future.
The development of the X15N engine is a significant technological achievement, blending cutting-edge truck diesel technology with user-friendly combustion and emissions technology found in gasoline engines used in passenger cars. Unlike the high-pressure direct injection (HPDI) system used by some other companies, Cummins adopted a spark-ignited system that employs an inductive ignition system, similar to spark coils and spark plugs in conventional cars. This choice resulted in a simpler aftertreatment system compared to diesel engines, eliminating the need for DEF (diesel exhaust fluid) injectors or DPF (diesel particulate filter) cleaning.
The X15N’s fuel injection system is designed to ensure precise fuel delivery based on various sensor inputs, such as throttle position, engine RPM, and turbo boost pressure. This approach, combined with natural gas’s high knock resistance, allows for a high compression factor, enhancing efficiency and power. The engine achieves 1,850 pound-feet of peak torque, equivalent to the highest-rated X15 Efficiency Series diesel.
Numerous Environmental Advantages of the X15N Natural Gas Engine
The decision to opt for a spark-ignited system was primarily driven by the significantly simpler aftertreatment system, leading to potential savings in maintenance costs. Additionally, natural gas historically exhibits lower price volatility compared to diesel, making it an economically viable choice. The use of compressed natural gas (CNG) and liquefied natural gas (LNG) can further enhance cost savings and reduce the fleet’s carbon footprint, particularly when utilizing renewable natural gas (RNG).
In terms of emissions, the X15N engine significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions, achieving a 13%-17% reduction with CNG. When using RNG, the reduction can be even more substantial, making it an environmentally friendly option for fleets operating in urban areas.
The X15N engine provides a powerful and familiar driving experience similar to diesel engines, with torque curves closely resembling those of its diesel counterpart. Noise levels are significantly reduced, benefiting both the vehicle operator and the community. Refueling natural gas vehicles is also a straightforward and clean process, with the potential for fast refueling comparable to diesel.
Overcoming Infrastructure Challenges and Streamlining Maintenance for the X15N Engine
Despite its advantages, widespread adoption of the X15N engine for cross-country runs may be limited initially due to the need for further development of fueling infrastructure for commercial vehicle CNG. However, fuel providers are investing in building dedicated CNG stations and integrating CNG into conventional fuel locations to support the growing demand for natural gas engines.
Maintenance for the X15N engine is more akin to diesel engines, with spark plug changes being the primary difference. Cummins is actively working to extend maintenance intervals to align more closely with diesel engine maintenance requirements, reducing downtime and streamlining servicing for mixed fleets.
Cummins is actively preparing for the X15N’s launch by collaborating with its sales and service locations, as well as its dealer network, to ensure they are ready to support the product. This includes training and certifying technicians, stocking parts, and providing sales training. Facilities for servicing fueled natural gas vehicles are also being addressed to ensure a smooth launch.
Fleets can expect the availability of the X15N engine to begin in early to mid-2024, marking another milestone in Cummins’ commitment to innovative and sustainable truck engine solutions.
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