Companies

Allison Transmission and Cummins Collaborate on Hybrid System for Transit Vehicles

Published September 13, 2024

Key players in the commercial vehicle industry, ALSN and CMI, have announced a new collaboration to bring forth a low-emission hybrid transit solution. Allison Transmission Holdings, Inc., a global provider of commercial and defense fully automatic transmissions, is joining forces with engine manufacturer Cummins Inc. to integrate and certify a Cummins B-Series engine with Allison's innovative eGen Flex electric hybrid propulsion system intended for the transit market.

Allison Transmission's Strategic Move

ALSN, headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, is taking a significant step towards enhancing its product offerings in the public transportation sector. The eGen Flex system provides buses with the capability to operate solely on electric power for up to 10 miles, targeting zero-emissions zones and areas with strict pollution regulations. ALSN's alliance with CMI aims to improve urban air quality while also meeting the evolving demands for more sustainable public transportation solutions.

Cummins' Engine Expertise

With its global presence, Cummins, based in Columbus, Indiana, specializes in the design and manufacture of engines and related technologies. By combining its B-Series engine with ALSN's hybrid technology, Cummins is contributing to the development of a more efficient and environmentally responsible transit system. The expertise of CMI in engine production and service aligns with the industry’s move towards reducing carbon footprints and promoting cleaner energy use in commercial transport.

Implications for the Transit Market

The collaboration between ALSN and CMI signifies a leap forward for the transit industry in adopting hybrid technologies. The certified integration of the Cummins engine with Allison’s eGen Flex system is poised to set new standards for hybrid propulsion in buses, promising lower emissions and improved fuel economy.

Broader Industry Effects

While ALSN and CMI are at the forefront of this development, other market players might also see implications from this move. Companies such as Douglas Dynamics, Inc. PLOW, a North American manufacturer and upfitter of commercial truck accessories, and Dorman Products, Inc. DORM, a supplier of automotive replacement parts, are part of the larger industry landscape that could potentially be affected by shifts towards more sustainable transportation technologies.

Allison, Cummins, Hybrid