How important is the new powertrain test facility in Darlington for the company?
Our new powertrain test facility marks a significant step forward in our ability to test complete powertrains across a wide range of technologies including advanced diesel, natural gas, zero-carbon hydrogen and battery electric. The two-storey, 738 sqm site represents a £13 million investment in our technical operations and will play a pivotal role in developing future Cummins and Accelera by Cummins products, including Euro7-compliant engines, as well as battery systems, axles and e-axles.
This is one of the few facilities of its kind in Europe. Equipped with advanced dynamometers, it enables real-world testing of chassis-installed powertrains – from compact SUVs to 44-ton trucks and double-deck buses, as well as off-highway equipment for construction and agriculture.
As we prepare for Euro-7 and upcoming Heavy-Duty Vehicle CO₂ legislation, the ability to measure ultra-low emissions in real-world conditions becomes increasingly critical. This facility allows us to make precise, data-driven decisions on how different powertrains, whether traditional or alternative, perform under those conditions.
Can you tell us more about the hydrogen engine the company developed in Darlington?
The B6.7H is a hydrogen internal combustion engine built on Cummins’ proven spark-ignited platform and developed through a project facilitated by the Advanced Propulsion Centre (APC).
This 6.7-litre engine runs on zero-carbon hydrogen fuel and incorporates an aftertreatment system that delivers a 99% reduction in tailpipe carbon emissions, along with ultra-low NOx compared to current Euro-6 diesel standards. Crucially, it achieves this within a familiar combustion engine architecture, making vehicle integration straightforward and ensuring performance comparable to diesel equivalents.
Initially designed for medium-duty vehicles, the H2-ICE concept is scalable for heavier-duty applications and represents a practical solution to accelerate industry decarbonisation. Cummins continues to invest in a range of technologies, and we see H2-ICE and advanced combustion engines as important steps in lowering tailpipe emissions, alongside battery electric and fuel cell.
The B6.7H was designed, developed and rigorously tested at Cummins’ Darlington Campus, highlighting the depth of expertise and innovation within UK manufacturing, and reinforcing our commitment to progressing sustainable transport.
What partners did you work with on ‘Project Brunel’ to successfully deliver the H2-ICE?
Project Brunel highlights the power of collaboration between industry leaders, underscoring our ongoing commitment to industry decarbonisation.
The project was led by Cummins, with Johnson Matthey providing aftertreatment catalyst and advanced metals chemistry development, PHINIA developing hydrogen fuel injection technology and Zircotec supplying hydrogen barrier coatings. The project was match-funded by UK government and facilitated by the APC.
Describe the training opportunities available to young people at Cummins?
At Cummins, we’re committed to attracting, developing, and retaining the best talent and we invest heavily in global programs that support career growth. Young people can access a wide range of opportunities, including apprenticeships, internships, student placements, work experience programs and graduate schemes across multiple business functions.
Our dedication to early careers development was recently recognized with 15th place in the prestigious ‘Best 100 Apprenticeship Employers 2023–2024’ by RateMyApprenticeship, underscoring our commitment to creating a growth-focused environment for the next generation of industry leaders.
Executive Director – Product Strategy at Cummins
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