From a technology standpoint, Cummins is uniquely positioned to produce engines that operate at or below emissions levels mandated in the EPA consent decree. We have devoted considerable energy and resources toward meeting these requirements. And we have proven the performance and reliability of our low-emissions engines in over 100 real-world road test vehicles.
Cummins will meet the new standard using cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) technology. We’ve researched all technical solutions and concluded that it’s the only feasible technology for meeting the 2.5-gram (NOx + NMHC) levels in the ’02 time frame. No other currently available technology provides the customer with the benefits of fuel economy, cost, responsiveness and overall performance, while achieving a 2.5-gram emissions level.
Of course, to do an effective job with cooled EGR, an engine platform has to be capable of handling high peak-cylinder pressures. At Cummins, we’ve planned for cooled EGR for over a decade, so every one of our current Interact™ System engines has been designed to accommodate higher peak cylinder pressures. The same is true for fuel injection systems and turbochargers; in fact, every engine component has been designed to work with cooled EGR. The fact that Cummins has already made this investment across its entire platform of automotive engines is significant because it allows us to meet the new emissions standards without a radical redesign of our base engine components.
VGT to the rescue
In addition to cooled EGR technology, the Cummins solution includes a patented Variable Geometry Turbocharger (VGT) developed by our U.K. subsidiary, Holset. This proven air-handling technology works with a sophisticated electronic engine management system to deliver improved performance and the best possible fuel economy. Over 40,000 commercial trucks in Europe are currently using our VGT technology with its unique and reliable single sliding nozzle design.
Our EGR and VGT technologies have been proven in millions of on-highway miles, including real-world use throughout California and Europe, with positive results in vehicle performance, efficiency, reliability and durability.
We know that our technology works, and works well. And we have worked very closely with truck OEMs to integrate these technologies into their vehicle designs to deliver products that meet our customers’ demands, as well as the EPA’s. Cummins is ready to meet ’02 emissions standards, right now.
To learn more about Cummins initiatives to improve the global environment, please see our 2000 Environmental Annual Report, which can be viewed at www.cummins.com. Specific comments or requests regarding Cummins environmental policy can be made to the following address: Cummins Inc., Attn.: Environmental Programs, MC 60904, P.O. Box 3005, Columbus, IN 47201
