Cummins holds China unveil of X15H hydrogen IC engine

Cummins’ fuel agnostic platform used as basis for X15H engine (Photo: Cummins)

Cummins has held the China-market debut of its X15H 15-litre hydrogen internal combustion (IC) engine. The event took place at Cummins’ East Asia Research & Development Centre in Wuhan, Hubei province.

Also on display were examples of Meritor axles, Endurant transmissions and aftertreatment systems from Cummins.

The event featured the first start-up of the hydrogen IC engine in China. Based on Cummins’ fuel agnostic engine platform, the lean-burn direct injection engine produces 542 hp and peak torque of 2600 Nm.

Using zero-carbon hydrogen fuel, the engine can achieve a brake thermal efficiency of up to 44%, with a brake mean effective pressure of 22 bar. This is similar to diesel power and torque capability.

Jason Wang (Photo: Cummins)

Jason Wang, Cummins VP and general manager of EBU China said: “Achieving zero-carbon requires collaboration and joint innovation. Cummins has long-term partnerships with its Chinese customers which allows us to fully understand their business requirements and sustainability goals.

“The combination of in-depth market insights and a culture of innovation well-positions Cummins to develop the right solutions that support our customers’ businesses while reducing environmental impact.”

Using familiar IC tech, the Cummins X15H hydrogen engine can be integrated into a vehicle without major product redesign. Applications include heavy-duty haulage and vocational trucks. Commonality between the X15H and its diesel counterparts also supports existing parts supply and maintenance practices.

East Asia Research & Development Centre (Photo: Cummins)

Cummins further reported that it plans to invest a total of $150 million at the East Asia Research & Development Centre to support development of IC and zero-emissions products.

With an area of 78,000 square metres, the centre features 28 test cells, together with a building dedicated to zero-emissions power development. To date, the centre has contributed to more than 50 produce development programmes.